Review of Breakout Beyond on PlayStation 5

Breakout Beyond, developed by Choice Provisions and published by Atari, revitalizes a timeless arcade classic with a vibrant, neon twist. This review delves into how the game breathes new life into the original concept while offering a fresh experience for fans and newcomers alike.

The reimagined Breakout Beyond shifts from the original’s vertical layout — a nod to its arcade roots — to a horizontal format. Here, your challenge is to skillfully bounce the ball and reach each level’s goal, a clear departure from the classic objective of smashing all the on-screen bricks before the ball escapes the bottom edge, costing you a life.

Originally conceived as a title for the long-delayed Amico console, Breakout Beyond has found its place within Atari’s Beyond series. This collection modernizes iconic titles with innovative twists, similar to Lunar Lander Beyond which I reviewed before. I actually enjoyed that one so much on PlayStation 5 that I pre-ordered the Lunar Lander Beyond Deluxe Edition for my Switch collection. Breakout Beyond carries a familiar vibe reminiscent of BIT.TRIP Flux, a creation of Choice Provisions when they operated as Gaijin Games, harking back to the WiiWare era.

Breakout Beyond offers both solo gameplay and an engaging two-player co-op mode, providing a perfect opportunity to manage its fast-paced action alongside a friend. Aesthetically and audibly, the game reacts to player performance with procedural effects, adding layers to the excitement. With 72 levels to conquer, players aim to create massive combos and accumulate impressive scores. Unique blocks spice up the gameplay, offering special effects like protecting the ball, explosive blasts, powerful lasers, and the chaotic multiball feature.

Every level tests your mastery of the mechanics, but players aren’t left unaided. An intriguing Focus Mode slows down time, albeit with a cost to your score. Alternatively, teaming up locally in co-op makes for an enjoyable shared experience. Unlocking Infinite Mode offers endless opportunities to beat high scores, alongside 1976 Mode, an homage to the original game.

For those trophy hunters out there, Breakout Beyond comes with a complete set of achievements, capped off with the coveted Platinum trophy. Earning it involves unlocking special features like multiball and Endless Mode, and achieving milestone scores in various modes, among other challenges.

Breakout Beyond transforms the arcade original into an engaging, modern experience. While adhering to Breakout’s core, it introduces a twist with a horizontal play area focused on reaching objectives rather than clearing the screen of bricks. This innovation, coupled with vibrant visuals and dynamic music, makes for a compelling revival of a classic.

Additionally, players can vie for leaderboard spots in Infinite Mode, or indulge in retro nostalgia with the unlockable 1976 Mode. Available on PlayStation 5 for $14.99, there’s also a PS4 version priced similarly.

This review is based on a PlayStation 5 copy provided by Atari, and it offers insights into how Breakout Beyond succeeds in evolving a beloved classic for today’s gaming audiences.