Pong Company Atari Files For Bankruptcy
First Hostess, and now this! Atari, the company behind famous first-generation video and arcade games like Pong and Asteroids, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protections. But the good news is, if the proceedings are successful, Atari may emerge freed from debt and with its brands preserved.
In 2000, Atari was taken over by French company Infogrames, which later changed its name to Atari SA. But the American company has not benefited from ownership by a parent organization listed on the French stock market, creating complications as Atari sought to raise money and get out of debt. However, the video game developer has somewhat successfully refocused its business on Web and mobile gaming, as well as licensing their famous logo. By filing for bankruptcy, Atari may be able to sever its ties with their debt-laden parent organization, and find a private buyer.
Atari and mobile gaming seems like a perfect match to me. Atari’s fun, simple, two-dimensional games are a perfect match for the diversions popular on smartphones and tablets.
I really hope the company comes out of this one alive. Without Pong and Twinkies, I won’t be able to have a fun night in 1975.
Would you play Atari games online or on your mobile device?
[via LA Times]
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