(14:00 BST / 15:00 CEST) 3rd April 2025: PLAION, a leading global publisher and developer of video games, and Atari, one of the world’s most iconic consumer brands and interactive entertainment producers, are proud to announce today that Tiger-Heli — a newly developed version of the arcade classic — will be launching worldwide on 18th July for the first time ever on Atari consoles. Additionally, this exciting new release will be supported with official releases of modern homebrew ports, including Avalanche, Countermeasure II, Dark Chambers, and Super Circus Atari.
Tiger-Heli is a vertically scrolling shoot-'em-up where players control a helicopter through various stages filled with enemies, obstacles, and powerful bosses. The game delivers intense action, tight controls, and the challenge of navigating waves of enemy fire. It was selected for redevelopment thanks primarily to the legacy associated with its name — this was the title that had a huge impact on the shoot-'em-up genre and helped introduce players to 'bullet hell' long before 'bullet time' became synonymous with action shooters.
Unlike many famous arcade games, Tiger-Heli has yet to appear on any Atari console, a fact that will change come 18th July.
Watch the announcement trailer here: (UK Link) https://youtu.be/YiPG8UKZGLM
“Over the last couple of years, we’ve really stepped up our investment in retro gaming, focusing primarily on the release of retro consoles such as the Atari 2600+ and 7800+. We now want to release new games for these systems, and Tiger-Heli represents our first foray into internally developed retro software. This new cartridge is for those players who have supported us by buying the new Atari consoles – we want to continue to grow the library for them,” said PLAION’s Commercial Director of Retro, Ben Jones.
Key features of the new Tiger-Heli include:
- Developed from the ground up for the first time on Atari consoles
- Single-player helicopter combat
- Power-ups that increase firepower and grant special abilities
- Multiple stages set in diverse environments
- Enemies include ground vehicles, aircraft, and turrets
- Iconic Pokey-based score
- Compatible with the original Atari 7800, as well as the Atari 2600+ and 7800+
In addition to Tiger-Heli, PLAION and Atari will also release the following games on 18th July 2025:
- Avalanche – A fast-paced puzzle-action game where players must catch falling avalanche stones to prevent disastrous impacts. For one or two players, this game will be available on the original Atari 2600 & 7800, as well as the 2600+ and 7800+.
- Countermeasure II – This single-player experience focuses on using countermeasures to defeat the enemy’s inbound arsenal. High-speed, intense combat will be available on the original Atari 7800, as well as the company’s new ‘plus’ range of consoles.
- Dark Chambers – Originally released in 1988 for the Atari 7800, this game was a standout title for the legendary console. The re-release offers gamers the chance to find the hidden treasure of the Dark Wizard of AaZor in this classic dungeon-crawling adventure.
- Super Circus Atari – After traversing the dungeons of Dark Chambers or repelling enemy fire in Countermeasure II, gamers might welcome the lighter and fun experience of Super Circus Atari. Players control the infamous see-saw, launching daredevil clowns on a mission to pop as many balloons as possible for that all-important high score. Available on Atari 7800, 7800+, and 2600+.
All of these games will be available to try at the Midwest Gaming Classic event in Milwaukee (USA) from Friday 4th April to Sunday 6th April. For those unable to attend, Tiger-Heli and the additional four games are available for pre-order at major retailers and on Atari.com, priced at £24.99 ($29.99 / €29.99). The release date for all titles will be 18th July 2025.
For more information, visit: www.atari.com
NOTES TO EDITORS: Latest assets can be found here: https://presse.plaion.com/
About PLAION
PLAION is a dynamic and diversified business in the global entertainment sector, masterfully crafting franchises that captivate audiences worldwide. Founded nearly three decades ago, PLAION has firmly established itself within the entertainment arena. With a diverse range of services and solutions, PLAION stands as the premier publishing partner for console and PC games across both physical and digital channels. Moreover, its strong foothold in the Virtual Reality (VR) domain highlights the company's commitment to varied gaming experiences.
PLAION is an Embracer Group company.
About Atari
Atari is an interactive entertainment company and an iconic gaming industry brand that transcends generations and audiences. The company is globally recognized for its multi-platform interactive entertainment and licensed products. Atari owns and/or manages a portfolio of more than 200 unique games and franchises, including world-renowned brands like Asteroids®, Centipede®, Missile Command®, Pong®, and RollerCoaster Tycoon®.
Atari has offices in New York and Paris. Visit us online at www.Atari.com.
©2025 Atari Interactive, Inc. Atari wordmark and logo are trademarks owned by Atari Interactive, Inc.
Founded nearly three decades ago, PLAION has firmly established itself within the entertainment arena. With a diverse range of services and solutions, PLAION stands as the premier publishing partner for console and PC games across both physical and digital channels. Moreover, its strong foothold in the Virtual Reality (VR) domain highlights the company's commitment to varied gaming experiences.
PLAION is an Embracer Group company.