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By incorporating blockchain technology, Atari, a pioneer in arcade gaming, has given fresh life to two of its most famous titles, Breakout and Asteroids. These updated versions are currently hosted on Base, a layer-2 Ethereum network created by Coinbase (that launched Onchain Arcade along with Atari on Ethereum) that provides improved functionality and contemporary features. Breakout will be released soon, but for now, players can mint and compete on blockchain-based leaderboards for Asteroids, which is available now.
Asteroids, originally launched in 1979, challenges players to navigate a spaceship through an asteroid field, destroying obstacles to earn points. The updated blockchain version retains the classic gameplay but introduces new features. Players can now engage in special modes like “Degen,” “Bitcoin,” and “Higher,” where shooting colored asteroids doubles points for limited times. This adds a strategic layer to the game.
The blockchain integration records player scores and achievements using NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens), priced at 0.0015 ETH (approximately $5.25). Players can mint up to 1,000 NFT access passes per wallet, which grant game access, ensure permanent achievement records on the Ethereum blockchain, and allow participation in global leaderboards. Although holding multiple passes does not affect in-game scores, they serve various purposes, including access and achievement verification.
Secure score recording and real-time leaderboard updates are also included in the blockchain update. Weekly competitions aimed at drawing in both devoted followers and new players with an interest in blockchain gaming are offered, with prizes including Atari apparel, game tickets, and gift cards worth up to $1,000.
Similarly, blockchain capabilities have been added to Breakout, a game where players smash through a brick wall using a paddle. This expansion improves player experience and broadens the selection of Atari’s blockchain-enabled arcade games.
Because the Base network is more scalable and has less transaction fees than the Ethereum main network, Atari decided to use it for their blockchain-enabled games. This decision is in line with what gaming apps demand, which call for quick and frequent interactions.