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Amico Entertainment is still in the game, determined to launch its Intellivision Amico console despite the fog of uncertainty hanging over its release. While details about the console itself have been few and far between, the company has announced that several games initially developed for the Amico are now available on other platforms, including the Nintendo Switch and Steam. This has raised eyebrows: could this be a sign of trouble for the hardware’s future, especially after years of delays?
What’s Happening with the Amico Hardware?
As it stands, Amico has not provided clear communication about when we can expect the console to hit the shelves. Yet, the company insists that launching the hardware is still a top priority. In a recent statement, Amico Entertainment said, “We are actively moving forward with our phased plan to produce the Amico hardware, and we have good news to share about the current phase of the plan: building financial stability.” This commitment comes on the heels of several missed deadlines and a rollercoaster ride of leadership changes.
The last major update from Amico Entertainment came in early 2023 when the company admitted it needed more investments before production could kick off. To tackle this hurdle, they launched the Amico Home app as part of a fundraising strategy. Despite the uphill battle, Amico remains optimistic about what lies ahead.
Game Releases and Market Moves
In an unexpected twist, several titles that were originally intended for the Amico have recently made their way to other platforms. Games like Finnigan Fox and Evel Knievel are now available for €14.79 on the Nintendo Switch and Steam. Another game, Cornhole, can also be found on the Switch at the same price. This shift has left many wondering about the viability of the Amico hardware and the overall strategy of the company.
Moreover, these recent releases follow the earlier launch of Breakout Beyond by Atari and Choice Provisions, which were also originally slated for the Amico. The increasing number of these titles on competing platforms has puzzled industry watchers about Amico’s strategic direction. Adding to the complexity, Atari now owns the Intellivision brand, leading the company to distance itself from Amico altogether.
Leadership Changes and Future Plans
Amico Entertainment has witnessed significant leadership changes over the past year. In 2022, Tommy Tallarico stepped down as CEO, with Phil Adam, a co-founder of Spectrum Holobyte, taking the helm. Despite this leadership shake-up, the much-anticipated release of the Amico console remains out of reach. The company continues to face scrutiny over its lengthy delays and struggle to bring the hardware to market.
In 2024, Atari’s acquisition of the Intellivision brand, along with certain games, forced Intellivision Entertainment LLC to rebrand itself as Amico Entertainment. This shift has further complicated the narrative as the company strives to regain its footing in the gaming market. The announcement of recent game releases on Switch and Steam was an effort to reassure stakeholders and gamers about its long-term vision.
As we look ahead, industry observers will be closely monitoring how Amico Entertainment navigates these challenges. Will it ultimately deliver on the promise of a new gaming console, or are we witnessing the slow fade of a once-promising venture?