Atari has reissued its classic 800XL home computer under the name THE 800XL, adding modern HDMI output and USB ports while keeping the original mechanical keyboard. Developed by Retro Games Ltd and distributed by PLAION REPLAI, the machine includes 25 preloaded games and full support for legacy cartridges. Preorders are open in the US for $220 with retail deliveries scheduled for next year.
THE 800XL replicates the exterior styling of the 1983 original, featuring a functional mechanical keyboard and a top cartridge port. Atari BASIC firmware is built into the motherboard, allowing owners to write, save, and run custom software directly on the machine. Hardware changes replace old display connections with an HDMI port compatible with current monitors and televisions. The system provides 4 USB A ports to attach external storage drives and controllers, shipping alongside THECXSTICK, an updated version of the original joystick.
The top slot accepts original game cartridges produced for the Atari 400, 800, XL, and XE computer systems. Users can also load software from USB flash drives, with the system reading digital images of cartridges, floppy disks, and cassette tapes. System emulation includes software made for the Atari 5200 game console. Internal flash memory contains 25 preloaded games, including Asteroids, Centipede, Berzerk, Missile Command, Millipede, Boulder Dash, and M.U.L.E. Software options include 4 save states per game and a rewind feature to correct gameplay errors.
Retro Games Ltd handled product development, while PLAION REPLAI oversees global manufacturing and distribution. The hardware is listed for preorder across US storefronts at $220, with shipping planned to begin early next year.
