Atari 50 is a very well-done game collection meant to celebrate Atari’s 50th anniversary. In addition to the games, Atari 50 includes interviews and archival footage to document the history of Atari. Atari has also shown love for the collection post-launch with two DLC packs. Now, a third pack is being added, this one focusing on Atari’s relationship with Namco.
Atari 50: The Namco Legendary Pack Trailer
Video of the Atari 50 courtesy of the Atari channel
The trailer talks about how Atari Japan was sold to Namco, which helped to put Namco on the map. It shows off how you will be able to play the Atari console versions of Pac-Man, Dig-Dug, Galaxian, Galaga, and Xevious. It looks like the DLC will include the versions released on the 2600, the 5200, and the 7800. There will also be new behind-the-scenes footage that will demonstrate Atari’s relationship with Namco.
What About the Arcade Versions?
The trailer advertised, “Play the Atari versions.” While it didn’t flat-out say the arcade versions of the games wouldn’t be included, I think it’s reasonable to assume that this DLC won’t include the arcade versions. That would likely require jumping through some licensing hoops. Still, you’ll get to play the famously rushed Atari 2600 version of Pac-Man. While most people say the 2600 version is terrible, it still became one of the best-selling games for the system. There are sure to be some interesting stories about the 2600 Pac-Man in the DLC.
Conclusion
Atari 50 is an excellent collection of more than 100 games, and it looks like the Namco DLC will be a good addition. Many people probably don’t know about the connection between Atari and Namco, so the behind-the-scenes footage should be very insightful. People who are interested in retro game history should be intrigued with the story of how the infamous 2600 Pac-Man came to be, along with why it was rushed. The trailer didn’t include a release date or a price tag, so we might have to wait a little while, but I’m sure the DLC will be worth the wait.
