Atari Is Making Cryptocurrency In Addition To New Console

Atari is preparing to launch a new console this fall, but the hardware will come alongside another business venture: a new approach to cryptocurrency. The Atari VCS is aiming to hit in November, and will let players buy wares using new "Atari Tokens."

Bloomberg reports that starting October 29, Bitcoin Exchange will sell $1 million in Atari Tokens for 25 cents apiece. Players will be able to use tokens to buy in-game purchases, and Atari foresees the possibility of using its Tokens currency as an industry standard. It's also said to be working on a gaming stablecoin, which isn't ready to launch yet.

Atari is much smaller than its former self, currently at only around 20 staffers. The console launch and cryptocurrency hook are aimed at bringing back the brand after it emerged from bankruptcy. The strategy will rely on players hungry for nostalgia, as the Atari VCS is looking to introduce reimagined versions of classic Atari games like Missile Command: Recharged. It may be a difficult sell, though, coming in at $390--roughly the price of the all-digital PS5.

The Atari VCS is scheduled to release to backers in November. It will sell a classic joystick design alongside a more modern controller design--both priced at $60 each. For more details, check out our Atari VCS pre-order guide.