Like anything, video games have changed over the years, going from the simpler pixel graphics to the most delicious life-like images of today. It's a rich history and Atari, a pioneer in the industry, is chronicling its journey through an art book spanning more than 40 years of unique art used in catalogs, advertisements, packaging and others.
The Art of Atari is a 350-page art book representing the most comprehensive look at various marketing materials, photos and concept and production artwork that Atari has used over the years. Sourced from museums and private collections all over the world, it offers a glimpse of what went on behind the scenes as some of the most iconic video games in history were conceptualized, illustrated and ultimately developed.
It will also feature an exclusive foreword from Ernest Cline, the New York Times best-selling author of Ready Player One, which is being adapted into a movie with direction from Steven Spielberg.
Video game art books have topped best-selling lists in the last few years but the prospect of a best-seller is not what merely excites Dynamite Entertainment, who will be publishing The Art of Atari. Rather, the publisher is proud of the historic moment that it will be sharing with one of the most iconic brands in the globe.
According to Robert V. Conte, a consultant for pop culture, where comic books brought about change in American entertainment in the ‘30s and ‘40s, video games offered the same and more during the ‘70s and ‘80s, with Atari right in front spearheading the movement.
Joining Conte in putting together The Art of Atari is Tim Lapetino, executive director for the Museum of Video Game Art.
Atari was founded in 1972, bringing to life some of the most iconic video games like Asteroids, Centipede, Defender, Dig Dug, E.T., Frogger, Joust, Missile Command, Ms. Pac-Man, Pitfall, Space Invaders and Spy Hunter.
"We are excited for this book of our rich, iconic history to be added to the collection of our many devoted fans, both new and existing," said Todd Shallbetter, chief operating officer for Atari.
The Art of Atari will be available in hardcover format come October. It will retail for $39.99.
Check out a preview of the art book below!
