Review of Breakout Beyond on PlayStation 5

Choice Provisions and Atari have teamed up to deliver something truly unique with “Breakout Beyond,” breathing new life into the classic arcade game with a mesmerizing neon twist. This reinvented version maintains the spirit of the original but adds a fresh horizontal perspective, challenging players to reach their goals in each level instead of simply smashing every brick in sight. It draws new dynamics into the mix, while still requiring the precision and strategy veterans of the old game will recognize.

This game was initially conceived as a title for the Amico console, which has faced lengthy delays since its announcement four years ago. Known as just “Breakout” at first, it has evolved and found its home in Atari’s Beyond series. This series is known for its clever reimaginings of classic games—a format proven effective in my experience with “Lunar Lander Beyond” last year. So enchanted was I with “Lunar Lander Beyond” on the PlayStation 5 that I eagerly placed a pre-order for its Deluxe Edition on Nintendo Switch. Now, with “Breakout Beyond,” fans can notice hints of BIT.TRIP Flux, which makes perfect sense given Choice Provisions’ history with that game, dating back to their WiiWare days.

Offering both single-player and an engaging two-player co-op mode, “Breakout Beyond” allows gamers to tackle its frenetic pace together. The experience is enhanced by procedural audio and visual effects that react to your in-game combos, ramping up your score as a reward. With 72 different levels to conquer, players work to rack up combos and special effects, like triggering protective shields or unleashing explosive blasts that obliterate multiple blocks. The game even includes power-ups like multiball, lasers, and drills to break down barriers in new and exciting ways.

Each of the game’s 72 challenging levels is designed to test your reflexes and strategic thinking, but rest assured, you’re not without some assistance. Activate focus mode to slow time in exchange for some points, or call upon a friend to tag-team your way through the madness in local co-op. Beyond that, players can unlock “Infinite Mode” for endless scoring possibilities or revel in nostalgia with the “1976 Mode,” a respectful nod to the game’s origins.

Trophy hunters will find plenty to conquer here as they aim for that elusive Platinum. Breakout Beyond offers a robust trophy list with a blend of Bronze, Silver, and Gold objectives. Achieving this top honor involves milestones like mastering multiball, accessing special modes, and navigating its course without losing a life. It’s a test of skill and endurance, with plenty of challenges to keep even seasoned players engaged.

“Breakout Beyond” is a striking tribute wrapped in a vibrant modern package, priced reasonably at $14.99 and available on both PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 (sold separately). Whether aiming for the top of the leaderboards or experiencing the pressures of 1976 nostalgia, this game invites players old and new to explore its colorful, revamped world.

A special thanks to Atari for providing a PlayStation 5 copy for this review, enabling us to dive deep into this neon-lit journey.