Review of Breakout Beyond for PlayStation 5

Breakout Beyond, a collaboration between Choice Provisions and Atari, is a vibrant, neon-laden twist on the timeless arcade hit. Our in-depth review peels back the layers on this updated classic.

Set your sights on Breakout Beyond’s fresh approach, which shuffles the original’s vertical gameplay—tailored for arcade machines—into a dynamic horizontal spectacle. Unlike its predecessor, where the goal was simply to smash all the bricks while ensuring the ball didn’t escape past your paddle, this iteration tasks players with reaching a specific objective in every level. It’s a small tweak, but one that fundamentally alters the experience, adding a new layer of strategy and excitement.

This game first saw the light as a potential contender for the elusive Amico console—now four years overdue under development. Originally titled simply “Breakout,” it’s now part of Atari’s adventurous Beyond series, where classic titles are reborn with imaginative twists. I’d previously delved into Lunar Lander Beyond, a reimagining that added narrative flair to the space adventure classic. It left such an impression on me that I snagged a Deluxe Edition for my Switch. And yes, from the looks of trailers and in-game captures, Breakout Beyond definitely channels that BIT.TRIP Flux vibe—an homage to Choice Provisions’ past work, back when they were known as Gaijin Games.

You can tackle Breakout Beyond solo or team up with a buddy in two-player co-op for a more tactical approach to the rapid-fire gameplay. The audio-visual feedback evolves with your combos, rewarding deft performance. With 72 intricate levels to conquer, players are invited to hone skills, amass combos, and climb scoreboards while stumbling upon special blocks offering unique effects: from shields preventing lost balls to laser cannons clearing pathways. Undoubtedly, there’s a trove of game-changers like bomb blasts, powerful drills, and the fan-favorite multiball, all set to upend the brick-busting chaos.

Expect a challenge as you navigate through these levels, but there’s assistance available. A focus mode courts players with slower times for a slight score penalty. Or perhaps, share the endeavor with a friend in local co-op play. Unlock the Infinite Mode to chase the leaderboards and reminisce with the 1976 Mode, taking you back to the original’s roots.

Trophy hunters are in for a treat with a full set—complete with a coveted Platinum. You’ll need to master special maneuvers, unlock various game modes, finish levels under unique conditions, and shoot for high scores both in traditional and Infinite Mode formats. The journey from unlocking multiball to conquering all 72 levels is nothing short of thrilling.

In essence, Breakout Beyond offers an electrifying, modern take on an arcade staple. The game promises hours of riveting fun, whether you’re pushing through its dynamic horizontal gauntlet or basking in nostalgia with the retro-styled 1976 Mode. Available on PlayStation 5 for $14.99, this is a digital delight worthy of your gaming repertoire.

This review of Breakout Beyond comes backed by experience on a PlayStation 5, courtesy of the fine folks at Atari.