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| The new Atari 800XL pictured |
Retro gaming fans, rejoice—Atari's beloved 8-bit computer is making a comeback in 2027 with a mechanical keyboard, cartridge support, and modern connectivity.
The Atari 800XL, one of the most beloved home computers of the 1980s, is officially returning to store shelves. Atari has partnered with Retro Games Ltd. and PLAION REPLAI to create a faithful recreation of the iconic machine, complete with modern upgrades that bring it firmly into the 21st century.
According to the official press release, THE 800XL is now available for pre-order at $219.99 USD ( £199.99 GBP, €219.99 EUR, and $349.99 AUD), with shipping scheduled to begin on April 23, 2027.
A Legendary Machine Returns
First introduced in 1983, the Atari 800XL is widely considered the jewel in the crown of Atari's personal computer lineup. With 64KB of memory, custom graphics and sound chips, and built-in BASIC programming language, it represented the perfect intersection of personal computing and gaming.
"The 800XL represents an important moment in Atari's history, when home computers were becoming a gateway to gaming, programming and creativity," said Matt Burnett, VP of Strategic Operations at Atari. "It gave an entire generation the opportunity to discover what they could do with a computer, while offering an incredible catalog of games and software."
Modern Features, Retro Soul
The new THE 800XL retains the distinctive low-profile form factor of the original while adding numerous quality-of-life improvements:
Full-Size Mechanical Keyboard: Unlike many retro recreations that cut corners on input devices, THE 800XL features a 57-key mechanically switched keyboard that delivers a comfortable, responsive typing experience for both programming and gaming.
HDMI Output: Connect to modern displays with support for PAL (50Hz) and NTSC (60Hz) modes, authentic 4:3 aspect ratio, pixel-perfect display options, and optional CRT filters for that nostalgic look.
Working Cartridge Slot: Got a collection of original Atari cartridges gathering dust? THE 800XL supports most Atari 400, 800, XL, and XE cartridges, letting you relive your favorite games exactly as you remember them.
USB Connectivity: Four USB-A ports allow for additional controllers and USB storage devices, while power is supplied via USB-C. Load your own games and software from USB flash drives with cartridge, disk, and cassette image support.
25 Built-In Games Ready to Play
Out of the box, THE 800XL includes 25 licensed classic titles spanning arcade action, strategy, puzzle, and platforming genres. The lineup includes beloved favorites such as Asteroids, Centipede, Missile Command, M.U.L.E., Boulder Dash, Crystal Castles, and Star Raiders II.
Two additional hidden titles—Castle Crisis and Super Breakout—can be unlocked by connecting an analog controller.
Classic Mode: It's a Real Computer
THE 800XL isn't just a games machine. When switched to Classic Mode, it becomes a true home computer behaving exactly like the original Atari machine. With built-in Atari BASIC, users can write, save, and run their own programs, making it an ideal introduction to classic 8-bit programming for a new generation.
Save States and Rewind
Modern conveniences extend to gameplay as well. Players get four save slots per game and can rewind gameplay by up to 30 seconds—whether playing built-in games, side-loaded software, or original cartridges.
THECXSTICK Included
Completing the package is a refined THECXSTICK, Retro Games' modern recreation of Atari's iconic joystick. It features the classic fire button plus seven integrated action and function buttons discreetly built into its classic design, with self-centering axes and left/right-handed modes.
The box also includes a USB-A to USB-C power cable, HDMI cable, and quick guide. Note that a 3-amp USB-C power adapter is required but not included.
Where to Pre-Order
Pre-orders are available now through PLAION REPLAI, atari.com, and a wide range of retailers worldwide. Payment is taken at checkout, and all pre-orders will ship as soon as stock arrives on April 23, 2027.
"There is something gloriously unapologetic about the Atari 800XL," said Namer Merli, Senior Product Marketing Manager at PLAION REPLAI. "In 1983, apparently the future came in brown, cream and burnt orange... and it looked fantastic. But what I love most about THE 800XL is that it captures an entire way of experiencing technology."
For longtime fans and newcomers alike, THE 800XL offers a chance to discover—or rediscover—what made Atari's 8-bit computers so special.
For more information and to check out the official press kit, visit the official product page.