Atari, the iconic gaming company known for its Atari 2600 console, has made an exciting announcement that has sent waves of nostalgia among gaming enthusiasts. They have revealed plans to release a new physical cartridge for their beloved 2600 console, titled “Save Mary”. This is a monumental moment considering that the console had its most successful year in 1982, and now, in 2023, it is resurrecting with a brand-new game.
What makes “Save Mary” even more remarkable is its history. The game was actually developed during the golden years of the Atari 2600 but was unfortunately shelved when the console became obsolete. It is astounding to see a game that was developed decades ago finally making its way to the gaming community. It serves as a reminder of the rich history and untapped potential of the gaming industry.
The development process of “Save Mary” spanned two whole years, which was a significantly longer timeframe than the norm back then. In the era before the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), the typical production time for a game was around six to nine months, with some notorious titles taking only five or six weeks to develop. “Save Mary” stands out as an ambitious project that was meticulously crafted by veteran Atari staffer Tod Frye. Frye is renowned for his work on the 2600 version of “Pac-Man” and the “Swordquest” series.
For those eager to get their hands on this unique piece of gaming history, Atari is offering preorders for the “Save Mary” cartridge. Priced at $60, the preorder comes with a silver collector’s edition box, a full-color manual, and, of course, the game itself. What adds to the exclusivity of this release is that there are only 500 cartridges available, making it a highly coveted collector’s item for diehard Atari fans.
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Now, let’s delve into the gameplay of “Save Mary”. The objective is simple yet thrilling – players must save a lady named Mary who is trapped in a steep canyon rapidly filling with water. To aid Mary’s escape, players utilize a crane to build platforms. On the cliffside, power-ups appear, inspired by the iconic game “Pac-Man”, to provide assistance. Atari’s founder Nolan Bushnell even lauded the game in a 1989 interview, noting that it was the first game where players relied on construction rather than destruction to save the princess.
“Save Mary” is not the only recent release for the Atari 2600. Atari has also unveiled several other cartridges as part of their Atari XP line. These cartridges include both brand-new titles like “Mr. Run and Jump” and long-lost “lost” games like “Aquaventure”. What sets these cartridges apart is their commitment to replicating the exact standards of the past, while incorporating modern flourishes like beveled edges to prevent pin damage and gold-plated connectors. Atari has even made it easier for gamers to experience these titles by offering an upgraded version of the 2600 console called the 2600+.
The release of “Save Mary” and the expansion of the Atari XP line highlight the enduring impact of classic gaming consoles like the Atari 2600. Even after decades, these games continue to captivate and attract a dedicated fanbase. Atari’s commitment to preserving and reviving these games is a testament to the rich history and cultural significance of the gaming industry.
In conclusion, the announcement of a new game cartridge for the Atari 2600, specifically “Save Mary”, has ignited excitement among gaming enthusiasts worldwide. The game’s development history, the exclusivity of the limited edition release, and the nostalgic gameplay all contribute to its appeal. Atari’s dedication to preserving and expanding the Atari XP line further reinforces the timeless nature of these classic games. As we embark on a new era of gaming technology, it is heartwarming to see the past being celebrated and revived in such a remarkable way.
