Atari seeks new cachet with crypto – and a return to hardware

Representations of various cryptocurrencies. The Atari VCS will come with a way for gamers to spend a cryptocurrency while they play. — AFP

As Microsoft Corp and Sony Corp prepare to launch their new video-game consoles, another legendary player, Atari, is readying its first new hardware in more than 20 years. The Atari VCS will come with a twist – a way for gamers to spend a cryptocurrency while they play.

First teased several years ago and expected to ship in November, the Atari VCS is being called a mini-console or a gaming computer. The product will offer access to more than 100 Atari arcade games and home classics, like Pong, plus new titles. It will have Internet connectivity and let consumers buy products using Atari Tokens, which will go on sale in late October.