Atari revives its classic 2600+ console for Pac-Man's 45th anniversary

Atari is celebrating the 45th anniversary of Pac-Man with a special reissue of its legendary console: the Atari 2600+ Pac-Man Edition . This nostalgic release revives not only a golden age of video gaming, but also the legacy of one of the most iconic titles of all time. The new console, presented in a vibrant Pac-Man yellow color , will be available for USD $169.99 and is available for pre-order now at select retailers and online.

The Atari 2600+ isn't simply a cosmetic replica. This model retains the classic design but has been modernized to fit the needs of today's gamers. It includes an HDMI port for connectivity with modern televisions, allowing you to enjoy the retro experience with stable, hassle-free image quality.

Also included is a Pac-Man Edition CX-40+ Wireless Joystick , which maintains the shape and feel of the original controller, but is now wireless and features modern technology for added convenience. The package comes with a Pac-Man: Double Feature cartridge , containing two versions of the classic: Pac-Man 7800 , with improved graphics, and the nostalgic Pac-Man 2600 , perfect for those who grew up with the original.

Alongside the console announcement, Atari and Bandai Namco revealed the release of new DLC for “Atari 50: The Namco Collection” , which will sell for USD $7.99 in late 2025. This downloadable content includes classic versions of arcade games such as Galaga , Dig Dug , Xevious , Galaxian , and of course, Pac-Man 2600 .

This package seeks to enrich the experience of players who already own "Atari 50," the title that brings together decades of video game history through classic titles, interactive documentaries, interviews, and previously unreleased material. This new content expands the catalog and reaffirms the commitment to preserving the gaming memories of past generations.

Originally released in 1980 , Pac-Man was created by designer Toru Iwatani for the Japanese company Namco . His approach was a radical departure from the shooter games that dominated the market at the time. Instead, it introduced a friendly character who navigated through mazes eating dots and avoiding ghosts.

Its simple yet addictive gameplay , combined with its attractive aesthetic, made Pac-Man a cross-generation phenomenon. Unlike other titles of the time, it managed to capture the interest of both children and adults, and in particular, women , an audience that had previously been overlooked by the video game industry.

In its 45-year history, Pac-Man has been featured in toys, animated series, songs, comics, clothing, movies, and even academic studies . It's not just a game; it's a symbol of global pop culture .

For collectors, nostalgic gamers, and new players interested in the origins of video games, this console represents a unique opportunity . Its compatibility with classic cartridges, its technological improvements, and its unique design make it a functional collector's item .

While its price tag of $169.99 might seem steep for a retro console, the symbolic value and quality of its packaging justify the investment. Additionally, Namco's optional DLC , priced at $7.99, adds even more value to the package, especially for those looking to relive or rediscover the golden age of arcade gaming.

The Atari 2600+ Pac-Man Edition isn't just a retro console: it's a tangible homage to one of the most influential video games of all time. By combining nostalgic design with modern features and adding legendary titles through downloadable content, Atari isn't just reviving its history, it's reintroducing it to a world where retro feels more alive than ever .

For Pac-Man fans, collectors, and vintage enthusiasts, this console is an interactive celebration worth every penny. Atari proves that, even as the years go by, classic fun remains relevant .