Atari 800XL returns as full-sized replica with 25 games
The 1983 home computer Atari 800XL is getting a full-sized comeback.
Atari and Retro Games Ltd have announced The 800XL, a full-sized replica of the original machine with a working keyboard, according to Video Games Chronicle. Pre-orders are open at 199.99 British pounds (£199.99). Shipping is scheduled to start in April 2027.
It is built for modern living rooms. The replica connects to current televisions through HDMI output, a digital connection now standard on displays. It has a full-sized mechanical keyboard, where each key has its own switch, and a working cartridge slot for physical game cartridges. Atari BASIC, the built-in programming language once used to write simple software, is included.
The machine comes with 25 games built in. The named titles so far are Asteroids, Berzerk, Boulder Dash, Centipede and Crystal Castles. Players can also add their own files through USB loading, using a memory stick to transfer games. It supports software made for Atari 400, 800, XL and XE computers and the Atari 5200 console.
The announcement follows an earlier project from the same two companies. The 400 Mini, a miniature recreation of the Atari 400, was released in 2024. It launched on 28 March and was priced at 119.99 US dollars (US$119.99), according to Eurogamer. It also included 25 built-in 8-bit Atari games.
For fans, this means a different choice. The last machine was small and focused on plug-and-play. This one is full size, with typing, coding and cartridges part of the package.
