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Atari 800XL Returns at $220, With Shipments Scheduled for April

The revived home computer offers built-in games, BASIC programming and ways to load older software. Engadget reports open preorders, with shipping scheduled for April 23, 2027.

THE800XL computer with a cream upper casing, dark keyboard, vertical row of pale function buttons and glowing red indicator, shown against a blue neon grid with multicolored stripes.

Photo: Source: www.engadget.com

A computer revival with a future shipping date

Atari is reviving the 800XL home computer with Plaion. Engadget reports a $220 price, 25 preloaded games and access to Atari BASIC for creating games. Preorders were open on October 8, 2026, with shipments scheduled for April 23, 2027—a shipping target, rather than a confirmed delivery date.

The original 800XL served as both a home computer and a gaming machine. Engadget describes it as a refresh of the Atari 800 from 1979. The new model retains that broader purpose with a full-sized mechanical keyboard and BASIC, a programming language users can use to create games.

Built-in games and routes to older Atari software

The included games feature Centipede, Crystal Castles, Millipede and Missile Command, according to Engadget. The publication also reports HDMI connectivity for connecting a display and USB ports for accessories.

The reported software options extend beyond the built-in selection: a cartridge slot accepts original system titles, while USB loading supports games from Atari systems including the 400 and 5200. Engadget also reports support for older homebrew content—software created by hobbyists. Those options give owners ways to revisit older software alongside the included games.

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