Atari Announces World-Class Video Game-Themed Hotels
As a child of the 80s, I’m sad to admit that I missed out on the Atari craze. I begged my family to get me one console: The Nintendo Entertainment System. However, Atari has had a significant impact on not just my life, but the lives of an endless number of games. So, when we heard Atari announce their upcoming video-game themed hotels, we were very excited.
This is a very serious venture, that will create one-of-a-kind video game-themed destinations, with Atari Hotels. There are eight planned now with the first breaking ground this year in Phoenix, Arizona. Perhaps we’ll see some of the Swordquest Treasures there?
Atari Hotels? Oh, Yes!
Atari as a company has left an indelible mark on the video game industry. Without them, we wouldn’t have all the incredible games we have now. But as of today, Atari announced a deal with the GSD Group. They are a leader of innovation and strategy with founder Shelly Murphy and partner Napoleon Smith III.
They acquired the rights to build these Atari-themed video game hotels, starting in Phoenix, Arizona. The idea is that they will create a unique lodging experience using the iconic Atari brand. Ever want to stay in a hotel with fully immersive video game experiences for every age and gaming ability? Perhaps VR and AR (virtual and augmented reality)?
That’s a possibility now more than ever. GSD Group and True North Studio are working together to build this first hotel, alongside Steve Wozniak’s Woz Innovation Foundation. Their brilliance combined will create the first Atari-branded hotel.
“We are thrilled to partner with GSD Group and True North Studio to build the first-ever Atari branded hotels across the United States. Together we’ll build a space that will be much more than just a place to stay. Atari is an iconic global brand that resonates with people of all ages, countries, cultures and ethnic backgrounds and we cannot wait for our fans and their families to enjoy this new hotel concept.” – Fred Chesnais, CEO of Atari
It’s been said that 2.5 billion gamers around the world spent more than $152.1 billion on games in 2019 alone. That number isn’t going to slow down anytime soon. With the globally recognized Atari IP, Atari Hotels will give consumers exactly what they want: a marriage of the origins of gaming alongside a comfortable, unique hotel experience.
“When creating this brand-new hotel concept, we knew that Atari would be the perfect way to give guests the ‘nostalgic and retro meets modern’ look and feel we were going for. Let’s face it, how cool will it be to stay inside an Atari?!” – Napoleon Smith III
“Atari Hotels will be the first of their kind in the U.S., offering gamers of all ages the ultimate in immersive entertainment and in every aspect of gaming. We’re excited to be working on this project with such great partners and to bring a big win to Arizona.” – Shelly Murphy
I must agree with them. This is one of the coolest things I’ve ever heard about. Now, I’m sure I’m not going to be anywhere near these hotels, but if there’s ever been a hotel unveiling, I’d like to attend, this would be the one! The other hotels will be located in Las Vegas, Denver, Chicago, Austin, Seattle, San Francisco and San Jose.
What about North Carolina? Come on, Atari. Or even Virginia, or Georgia? You’re killin’ me here! Regardless, we’re incredibly excited to see this. Perhaps these hotels could also be the site for major gaming conventions or esports events? Anything is possible!
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