Review of Breakout Beyond for PlayStation 5

Choice Provisions and Atari have combined efforts to breathe new life into the classic arcade game with their creation of Breakout Beyond. This isn’t your typical retro game—it’s infused with neon visuals and a fresh twist on an old favorite. What makes this reimagined version stand out is its shift from the original vertical layout to a captivating horizontal display. You’ll be tasked with launching the ball back and forth to break through each level’s goal, offering a fun twist on the classic challenge of destroying bricks without letting the ball drop.

Initially conceived as a potential title for the long-delayed Amico console—yes, it’s been stuck in limbo for four years now—Breakout Beyond was simply called Breakout. Today, it takes its place among the Beyond series, where Atari reimagines its classic games. A past review of mine covered Lunar Lander Beyond, another game from this series that added a narrative edge to the original. That game left such a lasting impression that I ended up snatching a physical copy for my Nintendo Switch. Fans of BIT.TRIP Flux might find Breakout Beyond reminiscent of that title, a nod to Choice Provisions’ earlier work when they were known as Gaijin Games during the WiiWare days.

You can dive into Breakout Beyond solo or partner up with a friend in local co-op to tackle its frenetic pace. The game shines with dynamic audio and visual effects that evolve based on your combos, rewarding skilled play. With 72 levels at your fingertips, each featuring exclusive blocks that impart unique special effects, excitement is a constant companion. We’re talking about shields to safeguard your ball, bomb blasts to clear out blocks, powerful lasers for path-clearing, and more—like the multiball, which predictably unleashes delightful chaos.

Each stage presents a unique test of your prowess; however, you’re not without backup options. A handy focus mode lets you slow time—though at the cost of your score. For an extra hand, a player two can dive in for the entirety of the game in co-op. Unlockables like the Infinite Mode await those chasing high scores, and there’s the nostalgic 1976 Mode, paying tribute to the game’s origins.

Enthusiasts can aim for the full trophy collection, which includes a coveted Platinum. The list boasts 8 Bronze trophies, 11 Silver, and 6 Gold. The road to Platinum involves unlocking all bonuses, completing all levels, achieving feats in both co-op and solo play, and scoring within certain benchmarks in various modes.

Breakout Beyond mixes the old with the new in a vivid, neon aesthetic while cleverly reinventing the iconic arcade hit. The horizontal retooling changes up the traditional vertical brick-busting challenge, adding a refreshing angle to reach each stage’s goal. Whether solo or with a friend, players can enjoy trying to climb the leaderboards or taking a nostalgic trip with 1976 Mode. The game is now available on PlayStation 5 for $14.99, with a PlayStation 4 version priced the same.

Lastly, just so you know, this review of Breakout Beyond was crafted using a PlayStation 5 copy provided by Atari.