Abstract:
Atari announced that it will stop providing subsequent support for the VCS console launched in 2021. This replica console is based on the original Atari VCS released in 1977 (later renamed Atari 2600). It was first delivered to Kickstarter backers in 2020 and was officially released the following year.
The console comes with its own dedicated game store and library, and also supports PC mode and can run Linux or Windows systems. However, the response has been mediocre since its launch, and sales have been average throughout its life cycle.
Now Atari has officially announced the end of support for this console, and its built-in store will be officially closed on February 1, 2027.
Atari community manager Carly Francis posted on the official Discord server: "We would like to inform everyone that the support services of the Atari VCS platform will be adjusted."
"Atari VCS has its own place among the many console products launched by the brand over more than 50 years. This project was initially just a one-time crowdfunding plan, but we have built it into a platform that has been operated together since 2020. Thank you to all loyal players and creators for bringing high-quality content to VCS and building a vibrant community."
"We will initiate the support termination process for Atari VCS, and the VCS store will be closed on February 1, 2027. Before January 31, 2027, players can still purchase games in the store normally."
In the past, after some consoles stopped supporting, they would basically lose their use value. However, Atari promised players that after the service is terminated, players can still use their VCS consoles normally.
The official will push a system update to remove all mandatory requirements for connecting to Atari servers. It also plans to launch a self-made application so that players can continue to develop games and add new content to the console without relying on the official store.
Francis wrote: "After the store is closed, we will push a system update, migrate all functions to local operation, and eliminate the dependence on Atari servers for account authentication and software running. Once the migration is completed, we will officially terminate support for the platform."
"As part of the transition plan, we will push the Atari self-made application to all players. With this application, everyone can add new games to VCS independently, and developers can continue to develop applications for VCS and share them with the community. Early next year, we will release a detailed guide to explain the system migration steps and the functions of self-made applications, giving everyone sufficient preparation time."
"We know this news is hard to accept. We are doing our best to ensure that community players can still use VCS normally in the future, and we will provide everyone with transition support throughout the process."
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