adminAtari acquires Implicit Conversions, a studio focused on bringing classic games to modern platforms through emulation. The financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed. The acquisition adds specialist technology and engineering expertise to Atari’s growing work in retro game preservation and releases.
Image credit: Implicit Conversions
Why Atari acquires Implicit Conversions
Implicit Conversions develops proprietary emulation technology for porting older games to current consoles. Its tools are designed to make games playable on modern systems even when their original source code is unavailable. This can be especially useful when preserving titles from earlier hardware generations, where technical limitations or missing development materials can make a straightforward port difficult.
For players, this kind of work can help keep classic games accessible on newer devices. When choosing a retro collection, it is useful to check which games and platforms are included, as availability can vary between releases.
Previous work with Atari and upcoming projects
Implicit Conversions said it had worked with Atari during the preceding year through game preservation company Digital Eclipse. Their projects included Mortal Kombat: Legacy Collection and Rayman, along with other titles that have not yet been announced. No further details about those unannounced games were provided.
The acquisition formalizes the relationship and gives Atari additional support from the studio. For now, the company has described that support broadly, saying Implicit Conversions will contribute in various capacities. Readers should wait for official announcements for confirmed release dates, platforms, or additional project details.
Leadership and emulation technology
Implicit Conversions co-founders Bill Litshauer and Robin Lavallée have taken new positions within the studio. Litshauer is now head of operations, while Lavallée has become studio head.
Atari CEO Wade Rosen said the studio’s Syrup engine complements the company’s existing expertise in games from the 8-bit and 16-bit eras, with Implicit Conversions adding capabilities for 32-bit-era titles. He also pointed to the Bakesale Engine, used by Digital Eclipse, and the Kex Engine, associated with Nightdive Studios, as part of Atari’s collection of proprietary tools.
Lavallée described the companies as sharing an interest in retro games and the view that accessibility is central to preservation. He also noted that Atari’s owned intellectual property and relationships with other rights holders could create opportunities to work on more classic games.
Atari’s other studio acquisitions
The deal follows Atari’s earlier purchases of studios with experience in classic games. In March 2023, Atari acquired Quake developer Nightdive Studios for $10 million, making it a wholly owned subsidiary. In October 2023, Atari acquired Digital Eclipse for $20 million. Digital Eclipse is known for retro releases including Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection.
Together, these acquisitions broaden the expertise available across Atari’s studios, from game restoration and emulation to work on older hardware generations. The financial terms of the Implicit Conversions acquisition remain undisclosed. As future projects are confirmed, Atari acquires Implicit Conversions’ technology and experience to support its expanding retro game portfolio.
