In that even though pre-orders are opening it won't actually ship until the first half of 2019. And that pre-rders will be handled via Indiegogo. Also, the images of the console are still of the computer generated digital prototype variety. But there are some details as to what features the open-source Linux box meets retro Atari console will have.

Namely the Atari designed device will feature AMD Radeon Graphics technology with support for both 4K and HDR output. Plus, onboard and expandable storage options, in-built WiFi and Bluetooth as well as USB ports. As of writing full product specs are currently unavailable, but will apparently be posted prior to the pre-sale.

Of which a VCS Collector's Edition featuring retro-inspired wood paneling on the front will be available in addition to the standard black Atari VCS Onyx edition - starting at $199 USD. As per the press release it sounds like controllers won't be included as "other packages will include the Classic Joystick and Modern Controller".


In terms of games we do know that each console will come packed with what's dubbed the Atari Vault. Which includes over 100 classic Atari games like Asteroids, Centipede, Breakout, and Missile Command. In addition to as-yet unannounced "popular modern titles".

“We continue moving forward on the Atari VCS project and are excited to see this pre-sale kickoff and to share more updates with our fans as we look toward the first shipments,” notes Michael Arzt, Atari COO of Connected Devices. “We are building outstanding teams and forging alliances that will make this product great and truly worthy of the Atari VCS name. Expert hardware partners are helping make this project possible and we couldn’t be more pleased with their contributions.”

Now, it's hard to really get excited about the Atari VCS for reasons that are pretty clear. We still don't know the specs, what app support will be there day one, or what games other than 40 year-old relics will be available. Time will tell if the blend of retro games mixed with streaming capabilities and media support is a popular one. Either way we're still interested to see more of the mystery device.