Atari, known for its iconic gaming legacy, made significant moves last year by acquiring Nightdive Studios and Digital Eclipse. With these acquisitions, the company aims to tap into the rich reservoir of retro gaming while exploring new avenues for growth and innovation. In a recent interview, Atari CEO Wade Rosen shed light on the company’s vision and strategy moving forward.
The acquisition of Nightdive Studios, renowned for its expertise in remastering classic titles, was followed by the addition of Digital Eclipse, further solidifying Atari’s commitment to preserving gaming history. According to Rosen, these collaborations have already begun to yield promising results, opening up new doors and opportunities for both studios.
Rosen emphasized Atari’s dedication to maintaining the ethos of its newly acquired studios, ensuring that they continue to focus on bringing back beloved classics and preserving gaming heritage. Despite concerns about industry consolidation and potential risks associated with it, Rosen assured that Atari is mindful of maintaining a balance between growth and sustainability.
In addressing the challenges facing the gaming industry, Rosen acknowledged the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent rise in costs and layoffs. He highlighted the importance of avoiding overexpansion and unrealistic valuations, emphasizing the need for a sustainable approach to growth.
Regarding the benefits of Atari’s ownership for Nightdive and Digital Eclipse, Rosen pointed out the tangible advantages of collaboration, despite some challenges such as the elusive rights to certain titles. He expressed optimism about the future prospects of these partnerships and reiterated Atari’s commitment to fostering growth while preserving the essence of gaming culture.
As Atari continues to navigate the evolving landscape of the gaming industry, its recent acquisitions signal a strategic shift towards revitalizing retro gaming and embracing new opportunities for innovation. With a focus on sustainability and collaboration, Atari aims to carve out a distinctive niche in the gaming market, ensuring that the legacy of gaming history remains vibrant and accessible to players old and new.
