Atari has unveiled its latest addition to the growing wave of retro-inspired consoles, but this announcement carries an unexpected twist. Instead of resurrecting one of its own classic systems, the company is revisiting the legacy of a former competitor. Through an intriguing collaboration with Plaion—a multifaceted enterprise known for its role in the development, publishing, and distribution of interactive entertainment—Atari will launch the *Intellivision Sprint*, a console that artfully merges the nostalgic visual appeal of 1980s gaming with the convenience and efficiency of contemporary technology.
This new device represents a modern reinterpretation of Mattel’s original Intellivision system, a console that debuted in 1979 and stood as a direct rival to the iconic Atari 2600. Back then, the two systems competed for dominance in living rooms across the world, shaping the early landscape of home gaming. The *Sprint* pays homage to that era, not only through its familiar silhouette but also by honoring the design cues that gave the original its distinctive character.
At first glance, the *Intellivision Sprint* strongly evokes the aesthetic identity of its predecessor. Its exterior boasts a refined combination of black and gold tones, highlighted by a wood-grain panel on the front—a tribute to the material style that was synonymous with high-end electronics of that period. However, while the physical design remains reminiscent of its 1980s roots, the internal architecture and user experience have been significantly modernized. Gone are the tangle of cables and bulky connectors that once cluttered entertainment centers. Instead, the console relies on a single HDMI cable for simple, high-quality connection to any modern television. This upgrade streamlines setup and ensures users can transition seamlessly from nostalgia to play with minimal effort.
The new system also reimagines the original’s distinctive controllers. Rather than adopting the joystick format familiar to most retro consoles, the Sprint retains the unique combination of rotating dials and numeric keypads that defined the Intellivision’s input scheme. However, these controllers now operate wirelessly, offering players freedom of movement and comfort that would have been unimaginable in the early years of home gaming. Each controller automatically recharges when docked to the console, eliminating the need for replaceable batteries or cumbersome power cords.
Further respecting its heritage, the *Intellivision Sprint* preserves the concept of number pad overlays—thin inserts that originally guided players by labeling which buttons controlled specific actions within each game. These overlays have been redesigned with updated artwork and clearer layouts to improve usability while still celebrating the visual style of the classic version. The adjustments make it easier to identify in-game commands, allowing both long-time fans and newcomers to engage effortlessly with the system’s library.
Speaking of games, the Sprint comes preloaded with 45 built-in titles that define the spirit of the Intellivision era. Among these are beloved classics such as *Boulder Dash* and *Astrosmash*, alongside a range of sports titles that once contributed to the console’s immense popularity. This curated collection provides a substantial sampling of the past’s most memorable gaming experiences without requiring additional purchases or hardware.
However, in keeping with modern expectations, the new system forgoes traditional cartridge-based gameplay. Instead, it introduces USB-A ports that open the door to expanded functionality. Through these ports, players can load additional compatible titles or even connect original Intellivision controllers using an adapter, thereby allowing enthusiasts to experience the authentic tactile feel of the 1979 hardware within a contemporary setup.
The *Intellivision Sprint* is now available for preorder at a retail price of $149.99, inviting both nostalgic collectors and curious newcomers to secure their piece of gaming history. Shipments are scheduled to begin on December 5th, 2025, marking the return of a console that once stood as a cornerstone of early gaming rivalry—now revived and reimagined for a new generation of players.
Sourse: https://www.theverge.com/news/801646/atari-intellivision-sprint-console-competition
