Atari and Universal to Adapt Pong, Asteroids, and More
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Atari is a video game company founded in 1972, known for pioneering arcade games and home consoles. In July 2022, Atari and Universal Pictures signed a deal to produce 10 film adaptations based on Atari's video game properties. The partnership aims to bring classic games like Pong, Asteroids, and Missile Command to a new generation of movie audiences.
The deal was announced via a joint press release and reported by Kotaku on July 20, 2022. Atari CEO Wade Rosen stated that the collaboration would "explore new creative avenues" and introduce Atari's characters to a broader audience. The first film in the pipeline is based on Pong, the 1972 arcade game that launched the company.
Key Facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Number of films in deal | 10 |
| First announced film | Pong |
| Other confirmed game properties | Asteroids, Missile Command, Breakout, Centipede, Adventure, Yars' Revenge, Bubsy |
| Console-based film | Atari 2600 (the console itself) |
| Partners | Atari (video game publisher) and Universal Pictures (film studio) |
| Announcement date | July 20, 2022 |
| Source of announcement | Joint press release; reported by Kotaku |
What Is the Atari-Universal Film Deal?
The Atari-Universal film deal is a multi-picture agreement signed in July 2022 that commits Universal Pictures to produce 10 feature films based on Atari's library of video games. The deal covers both classic arcade titles and the Atari 2600 console itself.
The deal includes 10 film adaptations of Atari video game properties, with the first movie based on the 1972 arcade game Pong. Atari CEO Wade Rosen said in a press release: "We are thrilled to be working with Universal to bring our iconic games to the big screen. This partnership will allow us to explore new creative avenues and introduce our beloved characters to a whole new generation of fans." The announcement was first reported by Kotaku on July 20, 2022.
Which Games Are Being Adapted?
The deal covers at least eight specific game properties: Pong, Asteroids, Missile Command, Breakout, Centipede, Adventure, Yars' Revenge, and Bubsy. Additionally, a film based on the Atari 2600 console itself is included, bringing the total to 10 announced projects.
Among the confirmed adaptations are Pong, Asteroids, Missile Command, Breakout, Centipede, Adventure, Yars' Revenge, and Bubsy, plus a film about the Atari 2600 console. The inclusion of Bubsy, a 1990s platformer character, was highlighted as a surprising choice. The Kotaku report noted that the list may expand or change as development progresses.
Who Is This For?
This film deal targets both nostalgic adult gamers who grew up with Atari's arcade and home console games, and younger audiences who may be unfamiliar with the original properties. Universal aims to leverage the brand recognition of classic titles to create family-friendly or action-oriented films.
The target audience includes millennial and Gen X gamers who remember the original games, as well as new viewers attracted by the novelty of seeing Pong or Asteroids turned into a narrative film. Atari CEO Wade Rosen stated the goal is to "introduce our beloved characters to a whole new generation of fans." The deal also positions Atari to expand its intellectual property beyond gaming into film merchandise and cross-promotion.
Common Questions
When will the first Atari film be released?
No release date has been announced. As of July 2022, the deal was just signed, and no production timeline or casting details were provided. The first film is expected to be based on Pong.
Is Bubsy really getting a movie?
Yes, Bubsy is listed among the 10 properties in the deal. The Kotaku report confirmed that Bubsy, a 1990s platformer character, is included alongside more iconic titles like Asteroids and Missile Command.
How many films are in the Atari-Universal deal?
The deal covers exactly 10 films. The announced properties include Pong, Asteroids, Missile Command, Breakout, Centipede, Adventure, Yars' Revenge, Bubsy, and a film about the Atari 2600 console, with one additional unannounced property.
Sources and Methodology
This article is based on a single primary source: the Kotaku article "Atari and Universal Sign Movie Deal for 10 Video Game Adaptations Including Pong, Asteroids, and Missile Command" published on July 20, 2022. The Kotaku article itself cites a joint press release from Atari and Universal Pictures. No additional sources were used. All facts, quotes, and figures are derived from that report. This article was last updated on July 20, 2022.