Sometimes, you get to take joy in everything new and fresh. In experiences that you’ve never previously imagined. Other times, it’s the known, the cosy, the comfortable that invites you in like a long-lost friend. So it is today, with the latest release from Plaion Replai, where they invite you to ‘Unlock 1982’, with the announcement of physical re-releases of old-school classics Galaga, Pac-Man, Dig-Dug and Xevious for the Atari 2600+ and Atari 7800+, all of which are fully compatible with the original Atari 7800.
1982 was the year that arcade gaming really hit its stride, with all four of these classic titles arriving in the space of 12 months. Admittedly, a good proportion of people reading this probably weren’t alive – or perhaps only just – in 1982, but if you’re a fan of gaming you won’t have escaped the long term legacy of each of these games. Heck, a new Pac-Man game came out last week!
Details of the four games can be found here:
GALAGA – Alien Swarm Attack!
Defend your starfighter against endless waves of alien attackers in one of the greatest arcade shooters of all time. Rescue captured ships, unleash dual-fighter firepower, and prove yourself in a timeless battle for the high score.
PAC-MAN Double Feature – Two Games. One Legend.
The world’s most famous maze-chaser returns in a special double feature: the classic Atari 2600 release alongside the upgraded Atari 7800 edition. Outsmart Blinky, Pinky, Inky, and Clyde in two definitive versions of PAC-MAN.
Dig Dug – Dig Deep. Pump Fast!
Grab your pump and tunnel underground in Namco’s quirky action-puzzler. Trap enemies, inflate them until they pop, or crush them with rocks in a unique blend of strategy and arcade action.
Xevious – Blast the Sky. Bomb the Earth.
Pilot the Solvalou fighter in one of the most influential vertical shooters ever made. Master dual attacks – lasers for airborne enemies, bombs for ground targets, and uncover hidden secrets as you battle for humanity’s survival.
“These games aren’t just nostalgic releases, they’re cultural touchstones,” said Ben Jones, Commercial Director of PLAION REPLAI. “With GALAGA as our flagship, and PAC-MAN, Dig Dug, and Xevious completing the set, we’re celebrating 1982 as the year that defined the golden age of arcades. We want fans old and new to unlock that moment in time and experience it all over again on Atari consoles.”
KEY FEATURES
- Officially licensed Bandai Namco releases
- Authentic physical cartridges with collector appeal
- Compatible with Atari 2600+, 7800+, and original Atari 7800 systems
- Classic 80s arcade visuals, gameplay, and high-score challenges
- Release date: 21st November 2025
Each title will be available individually at major retailers priced at £24.99 / $29.99 / €29.99.
This is exciting news! It’s great to see classic gaming making a comeback in such a fresh way. Nostalgia mixed with new experiences can really bring joy to fans old and new. Looking forward to seeing how this unfolds!
Absolutely! It’s fascinating how retro gaming is being revitalized, allowing both new players and nostalgic fans to experience these classics. It’s also interesting to see how modern technology might enhance these games while keeping their original charm intact.