Atari Joins Forces with Coinbase to Bring Classic Games to Blockchain
Atari, a well-known name in the gaming sector, has unveiled a collaboration with Coinbase to transition its timeless games, Asteroids and Breakout, onto the blockchain. This initiative will be part of the Onchain Summer event and the newly established Onchain Arcade, where players can vie for leaderboard rankings and earn rewards. The revenue generated from minting these games will directly benefit the creators who contributed to their development.
Tackling Current Internet Issues
Atari and Coinbase have expressed the necessity for a modernized internet, criticizing the existing corporate structure for enforcing arbitrary regulations, censorship, digital piracy, intermediary costs, and transaction fees. In response to these challenges, they have teamed up with Stack and various creators to introduce the Onchain Arcade. This project aims to bring beloved Atari classics into the blockchain realm, providing players with a fresh way to enjoy these games.
Atari’s Blockchain Journey
Tyler Drewitz, the director of Atari Club and Atari X, pointed out that Coinbase, boasting over 100 million users for its wallet and crypto services, is a prominent player in the blockchain landscape. Atari has a history of involvement in blockchain and cryptocurrency, previously led by former CEO Fred Chesnais, who initiated several projects. After stepping back from some blockchain endeavors following Chesnais’ exit in 2021, Atari re-entered the space in 2022 with Web3 collaborations, including partnerships with The Sandbox and Polycade.
Revamping Atari Club with Web3 Principles
Drewitz highlighted that the Web3 framework closely aligns with Atari’s goal of rewarding and engaging its community. The revamped Atari Club, inspired by its 1980s predecessor, seeks to offer an authentic and enjoyable platform for fans to connect with the Atari brand. He noted the success of the previous year’s Onchain Summer and expressed enthusiasm for continuing this partnership, which guarantees that creators receive a fair share of the proceeds from game sales, addressing the common issue of creators earning minimal returns from their work.
Introducing Onchain Arcade and SPARKLET Token
Players can now revisit their childhood by enjoying Atari classics in the new Onchain Arcade, where they can compete for leaderboard spots and earn enticing rewards like the Atari 2600+, merchandise, game codes, and more. Weekly rewards will be available until August 30. Drewitz emphasized Atari’s long-standing reputation for innovation in gaming, which continues with their early adoption of Web3 technology. He noted that blockchain has enabled Atari to interact with its community in diverse ways, from collaborating on new products to establishing competitive leaderboards.
Engaging Players in Onchain Competitions
Players can mint each game, engage in play, and strive for a high position on the on-chain leaderboards for Asteroids and Breakout. To join, players need to visit a designated link, connect or create a cryptocurrency wallet, mint the game for $5, and aim to achieve a top leaderboard ranking to secure prizes. Onchain Summer includes special mints, unique experiences, and a loyalty game that rewards players with complimentary on-chain avatars, prizes, and more.
Fostering Creativity in the Onchain Ecosystem
Atari and Coinbase are encouraging individuals to become innovators within the on-chain space. Onchain technology allows anyone to create experiences and receive direct payments whenever someone mints their work. Players can discover both recent and past drops, including collaborations with brands such as Adidas, Team Liquid, and Doodles, on the Onchain Summer platform.
Accessible Gaming with a Focus on Competition
Drewitz explained that Asteroids and Breakout were selected for their ease of play and their ability to encourage competition on leaderboards. He described Atari’s strategy as “blockchain light,” prioritizing Base to simplify the purchasing process for players using credit cards. He observed that public acceptance of blockchain has grown as more engaging and meaningful experiences become available.
Enhancing User Experience with Coinbase’s Base
Coinbase’s Base platform is integral to Atari’s strategy. Drewitz commended Coinbase’s initiatives to onboard users and showcase the benefits of blockchain technology. He underscored the aim of creating high-quality products that render blockchain both accessible and enjoyable. Improvements in interoperability have made it easier for players to engage with various types of Web3 games and integrate them with Web2 platforms.
Making Web3 Safe and Enjoyable
Drewitz expressed optimism that Atari can play a role in demystifying Web3, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for users. He acknowledged Coinbase’s contributions to creating accessible and pleasurable blockchain experiences, highlighting the positive outcomes of Onchain Summer. Players will gain from blockchain transactions through exclusive items and hidden features, enriching their gaming experiences. Atari’s summer camp, inspired by classic 1980s computer games, aims to deliver nostalgic experiences to players.
Significant Advancements in Gaming and Blockchain
The partnership between Atari and Coinbase represents a pivotal advancement in merging classic gaming with contemporary blockchain technology, providing players with a novel and immersive opportunity to engage with Atari’s iconic titles.
