Atari’s plans to launch an indiegogo campaign for the Ataribox have come to an unexpected halt. In a recently distributed email, the company explained that the proposed crowdfunding crusade, originally expected to launch on December 14, would be “officially paused”. As a result, pre-orders are no longer possible.
The reason behind the delay apparently boils down to “one key element” on Atari’s checklist. At this stage, there is no word on a precise date for a relaunched campaign, although Atari has assured potential backers that an “updated launch plan is currently underway”.
Atari announced its comeback in June with the timely reveal of the Ataribox, a new home console that ticks all the boxes of the current retrogaming bonanza. Pre-loaded with classic Atari games, it distinguished itself from a pure emulation system by running on a Linux operating system and offering compatibility with most PC games.
General manager and overseer of the project Feargal Mac previously outlined a 2018 release schedule for the Ataribox. However, given the delay of the indiegogo campaign, it looks like Atari’s retro renaissance is up in the air.