Before we get into this, I know, I know, there is already a Zaxxon game for the Atari 2600 and it was official, I think. The thing is, that port was “not” Zaxxon per se. It was obviously the best the developer could do with the limited hardware and knowledge around the 2600 at the time but it was not Zaxxon. It was more like a cross between Axelay (the overhead view) and River Raid (blocky graphics) with height added for a twist. Definitely not Zaxxon. Well, in October 2026, the fans over at Champ Games are releasing their version of Zaxxon for the 2600 and it looks amazingly like the arcade original. It is not officially licensed, but there will be a physical cartridge edition made available (as well as a digital option).
Good Things Come to Those Who Wait
Zaxxon is one of those arcade games that you either love or hate, there is not a real in between. Sadly, most people I have met over the years hate it. Those I have met that love it just barely stop short of calling it the second coming.
I like it. At first I disliked Zaxxon but after giving it some time investment I got used to the control scheme – I think this was on the Commodore 64.
Not Just Atari at Work
Champ Games are not doing this with a stock Atari 2600 and cartridge. No, no, the hardware in use here is somewhat like the Super FX chip in select Super Nintendo games.
According to Time Extension, Zaxxon on the Atari 2600 makes use of the Atari Age developed Melody Board. For those that do not know what this is, it basically includes an ARM chip and additional memory to work with the Atari 2600.
Obviously, this technology was not available to developers in the early 80s. To see this style arcade game running on the Atari 2600 is impressive. I would have never thought it could but a few years ago I said the same thing about Full-Motion Video (FMV).
Are you excited for Zaxxon for the Atari 2600? What is your favorite Atari 2600 title from back in the day or released more recently? Let me know in the comments below.
