Atari 800XL makes a surprise return for fans of classic 8-bit gaming

Retro gaming enthusiasts will soon have another way to revisit Atari's computing history. THE 800XL is a modern recreation of the original Atari 800XL, combining its recognizable 1980s design with a full-size mechanical keyboard, cartridge support, HDMI output, and a collection of 25 built-in games. Unlike many retro consoles, however, this machine retains its computing features, allowing users to write programs with Atari BASIC alongside playing classic titles.

Originally released in 1983, the Atari 800XL has been recreated by Retro Games Ltd., with PLAION REPLAI handling manufacturing and distribution. Announced on October 8, the new system is available to preorder ahead of its planned shipping date of April 23, 2027. These are currently announced release plans, so buyers will have to wait until next year to get their hands on the hardware.

The full-size mechanical keyboard is one of the system's main attractions. Users can write and save their own Atari BASIC programs, making THE 800XL more than a miniature retro gaming machine. It also supports homebrew software, offering enthusiasts a chance to explore games and applications created for Atari's original 8-bit computers.

For those with an existing software collection, the cartridge slot supports most cartridges designed for the Atari 400, 800, XL, and XE families. Atari also lists support for Atari 5200 games, although it has not confirmed that the physical 5200 cartridges themselves can be inserted directly. Alternatively, users can load software from USB storage, including cartridge, disk, and cassette images, though compatibility may vary by title and format.

The included game library features 25 titles, comprising eight Atari first-party games and 17 licensed third-party releases. Familiar names include Centipede, Missile Command, Boulder Dash, and M.U.L.E. There are also two hidden bonuses, Castle Crisis and Super Breakout, which require an analog controller to unlock.

Modern conveniences round out the package. Four USB-A ports accommodate peripherals and storage, while HDMI output supports PAL at 50Hz and NTSC at 60Hz. Players can choose between 4:3 presentation, pixel-perfect output, and CRT filters, with four save slots per game and a rewind function also available.

THE 800XL is priced on the official website at $219.99 / €219.99 / £199.99. Preorders are open, with shipments scheduled to begin on April 23, 2027.

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