Intellivision Sprint Preorders Open; Atari Sets Price, Release
A legendary name from the golden age of video games is making a stunning return. The Intellivision Sprint, a modern reimagining of the classic home console, is now officially available for preorder. In a fascinating twist of gaming history, Atari is spearheading the revival, setting a release window for early December 2025 with a retail price of $150. Fans of retro gaming and curious newcomers can now secure their unit through major online retailers like Amazon.
This announcement marks a significant moment for the legacy of Intellivision, a console that stood as a primary competitor to Atari in the early 1980s. Now, decades later, its former rival is celebrating its history with a new piece of hardware designed to honor the system that sparked one of the industry's first true console wars.
What is the Intellivision Sprint?
The Intellivision Sprint is a dedicated retro console created to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the original Intellivision system. Rather than being a simple plug-and-play device with a handful of games, the Sprint is a complete hardware package that aims to faithfully recreate the classic Intellivision experience for modern televisions.
The package contains everything needed to dive back into the 16-bit era, updated with today's technology for convenience and ease of use. It represents a heartfelt tribute to the innovation and unique game library that made the original console a beloved fixture in millions of homes.
Included in the Intellivision Sprint package:
- Intellivision Sprint Console: The main hardware unit, designed to connect to modern displays.
- Two Wireless Controllers: Modeled after the iconic original controllers, these wireless versions bring a much-needed modern convenience. They retain the distinctive look, including the signature directional disc and keypad, allowing for an authentic gameplay feel without the tether of cords.
- 96 One-Sided Controller Overlays: A core part of the original Intellivision experience, these plastic overlays slide over the controller's keypad to show game-specific button functions. Including a massive set of 96 overlays demonstrates a deep commitment to preserving the unique and tactical feel of the original games.
Price, Release Date, and Preorder Details
Atari has confirmed the key details for the launch, giving fans a clear timeline for when they can expect to get their hands on the new system. The Intellivision Sprint is positioned as an accessible piece of retro hardware, perfect for the holiday season.
The console is priced at $150 and is scheduled to begin shipping to customers in early December 2025. This timing positions it perfectly as a holiday gift for long-time gamers or a family-friendly introduction to a foundational era of video game history. Preorders are now live, allowing eager fans to reserve their console well ahead of the launch date.
A Historic Rivalry Reimagined
The most compelling part of this story is the involvement of Atari. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the battle for living room dominance was fiercely fought between the Atari 2600 and the Mattel Electronics Intellivision. The two companies engaged in aggressive marketing campaigns, with Intellivision famously using side-by-side comparisons to showcase its superior graphical capabilities and more complex games, particularly in the sports genre.
That Atari, the victor of that era's console war, is now the company reviving the Intellivision brand is a remarkable turn of events. It speaks to the mutual respect and shared history between these pioneering brands. Instead of letting the Intellivision name fade into obscurity, Atari is embracing its legacy, preserving the history of its one-time competitor for a new generation. This move honors the spirit of innovation that both companies championed and gives a new audience a chance to experience the system that first challenged the status quo.
Revisiting a Groundbreaking Game Library
While a full game list has not yet been announced, the original Intellivision was known for a library that emphasized strategy and depth over the purely action-oriented titles of its competitors. Its controllers, with their 12-button keypads and directional discs, allowed for more complex inputs and gameplay mechanics.
The console excelled in its sports simulations, with titles for baseball, football, and hockey that were considered remarkably advanced for their time. Beyond sports, it was home to unique strategy games, innovative action titles, and licensed properties that set it apart. The inclusion of 96 controller overlays with the Sprint strongly suggests a robust and diverse library of built-in games that will cover the full breadth of the original's catalog, from iconic classics to beloved hidden gems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Intellivision Sprint?
The Intellivision Sprint is a modern retro console developed by Atari to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the original Intellivision. It is a complete, standalone system.
How much does the Intellivision Sprint cost?
The suggested retail price for the console is $150.
When will the Intellivision Sprint be released?
It is scheduled to ship to customers in early December 2025.
Where can I preorder the Intellivision Sprint?
Preorders are currently available through major online retailers, including Amazon, and directly from Atari.
What comes in the box with the console?
The package includes the Intellivision Sprint console, two wireless controllers, and a set of 96 one-sided controller overlays for various games.