Atari and Activision are bringing back 39 classic games as physical cartridges for the Atari 2600 console, according to a report from Infobae. The announcement, covered by the outlet on September 1, 2026, marks a return to the original hardware format for a selection of titles from both companies’ back catalogs.
Infobae reports that the reissued cartridges will be compatible with the Atari 2600, the system that popularized home gaming in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The lineup includes games originally published by Atari and Activision during that era, though the specific titles were not listed in the available summary.
The move continues a broader trend in retro gaming, where publishers have increasingly turned to physical re-releases for older systems. While many classic games are available through modern compilation discs or digital storefronts, cartridge production for original hardware appeals to collectors and enthusiasts who value authenticity. Atari has previously supported the 2600 with new hardware releases, and Activision’s involvement signals renewed interest in its early library.
The partnership between the two companies is notable given their history. Activision was founded in 1979 by former Atari programmers, and its early games for the 2600 helped establish third-party publishing in the industry. Reissuing these titles on cartridges ties that legacy directly to the original platform.
No release date or pricing details have been announced yet. The full list of 39 games is expected to be revealed closer to launch, so watch for that announcement to see which classics make the cut.
