Atari has officially welcomed Implicit Conversions into its family. This emulation studio, though its acquisition price remains under wraps, specializes in adapting classic games for modern consoles. Using its cutting-edge emulation technology, Implicit Conversions can breathe new life into games, even when original source codes are missing.
For the past year, Implicit Conversions teamed up with Atari and preservation firm Digital Eclipse. Their collaboration includes projects like the Mortal Kombat: Legacy Collection and Rayman, with more titles in the pipeline. The studio’s co-founders, Bill Litshauer and Robin Lavallée, will take on new leadership roles; Litshauer will be head of operations, while Lavallée steps in as studio head.
Atari’s CEO, Wade Rosen, expressed excitement about this partnership, highlighting how Implicit Conversions’ expertise in 32-bit games complements Atari’s existing skills in 8 and 16-bit games. He noted, “With access to proprietary tools and a talented engineering team, we can enhance both our own games and those from our partners.”
The acquisition is significant for Atari, which has been actively expanding its portfolio. In March 2023, it acquired Quake developer Nightdive Studios for $10 million, and just a few months later, in October, it took over Digital Eclipse for $20 million. Digital Eclipse is known for remastering classics like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection.
This trend of remastering and preserving classic games reflects a growing appetite among gamers for nostalgia and accessibility. According to a recent report by the Entertainment Software Association, nearly 70% of gamers are interested in playing remastered titles. This increase in demand showcases the importance of making retro games available on modern platforms.
Certainly, with the union between Atari and Implicit Conversions, there’s a promising path ahead for bringing classic gaming experiences to new and old fans alike. As Lavallée puts it, both companies share a deep passion for retro games and believe accessibility is key for preservation. With an impressive portfolio and strong partnerships, they are well-positioned to make the most of new technologies in the gaming world.
To explore more about their work, check out the official announcement on the Implicit Conversions blog.
