GoKawiilRetro Games Ltd opens pre-orders for $219 Atari 800XL recreation
Retro Games Ltd, working with Atari and Plaion, has opened pre-orders for THE 800XL, a modern remake of the 1983 Atari 8-bit home computer. The unit includes a mechanical keyboard, built-in Atari BASIC, a cartridge slot, 25 built-in games plus two unlockable titles, save states, USB ports and HDMI output, bundled with a CX40-style joystick. Pre-orders cost $219, with shipping not expected until April 23, 2027.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The long gap between pre-order and shipping suggests manufacturing or licensing hurdles common to retro hardware revivals, and the premium price signals the product is aimed at nostalgic enthusiasts rather than casual buyers. Plaion's marketing emphasis on 'real keys' and 'real cartridges' indicates the company is positioning authenticity, not just emulation convenience, as its main selling point against cheaper plug-and-play retro devices.
- Pre-orders for THE 800XL cost $219 but won't ship until April 2027.
- The device blends period-accurate features like Atari BASIC with modern USB/HDMI connectivity and save states.
- It includes 25 built-in games, with two more unlockable via an analog controller not included in the box.
Atari THE 800XL Retro Games Ltd — This is literally the product the article covers—a faithful recreation of the classic Atari 800XL with a mechanical keyboard, 25 built-in games, save states, and modern HDMI/USB connectivity. It's a great way for retro computing fans to relive the 8-bit era with the convenience of modern hardware.
See Atari THE 800XL Retro Games Ltd on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: tomshardware.com — Mark Tyson, 2026-10-08
Published there as: “The Atari 800XL returns with a 'faithful' but modern Retro Games Ltd redesign”
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