Atari, in collaboration with developer Digital Eclipse, has announced the launch of the first major DLC for the critically acclaimed Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration. The Wider World of Atari introduces 19 playable games and eight video segments within a new timeline, diving into Atari’s rich history and the company’s impact on gaming culture.

Among the 19 classic titles featured in this DLC are:

• Berzerk 
• Frenzy 
• Red Baron 
• Sky Diver 
• Avalanche 
• Super Bug 
• Football 
• Desert Falcon 
• And several Sears exclusive titles like Stellar Track and Submarine Commander.

A New Wing to the Digital Museum

The DLC also includes archival interviews, vintage advertisements, and historical artifacts, all meticulously curated by Digital Eclipse. Moreover, you’ll learn of lesser-known innovations from the Atari 2600 era and hidden gems from the late 1980s. Notably, the DLC spotlights artist Evelyn Seto, who designed Atari’s iconic logo, and features Pong’s creator, Al Alcorn, sharing the origins of Breakout.

Additionally, the expansion sheds light on the gaming community’s efforts to promote the preservation of gaming history through homebrew games. Enthusiasts and developers alike have striven to uncover unreleased prototypes, often forgotten gems from the early days of gaming. This grassroots movement has led to the discovery of many long-lost titles, breathing new life into vintage systems and rekindling interest in classic gameplay.

Moreover, the rise of homebrew games — titles created by independent developers — has further enriched the Atari landscape. Atari itself has had to acknowledge their efforts. Robert DeCrescenzo’s homebrewed games were included with every order of the newly released Atari 7600+, and it’s fantastic to see the company continue highlighting pillars of their community.

More Expansions to Come

A second DLC titled The First Console War is set for release on November 8. Coincidentally, this is at the same time as the physical launch of Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration Expanded Edition for Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5, retailing at $39.99. This edition includes the original game and both DLCs, at quite a good bargain.

A special Steelbook version for the Nintendo Switch will feature Atari 2600 art cards, miniature arcade marquee signs, and a replica business card from Al Alcorn’s Syzygy Co. The Wider World of Atari DLC is available now for $7.99 on PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Series X, and PlayStation 4 & 5 if you want to grab it now. If, however, you own the original game on Atari VCS you can access the DLC for free through an update.