World's First Game-Themed Atari Hotel to Open in Downtown Phoenix

Fans of Pong, Asteroids and RollerCoaster Tycoon will soon have a lodging experience all their own. The first-ever Atari video game-themed hotel is coming to Downtown Phoenix.

On Monday, Atari announced a deal between GSD Group, Napoleon Smith III (producer of the 2014 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles reboot), local developer True North Studio (TNS), and Steve Wozniak’s Woz Innovation Foundation. A specific location and ground breaking date has yet to be identified, according to TNS.

The first of its kind, and a testament to the growing popularity of gaming and e-sports in U.S. culture, Atari promises to create a “unique lodging experience combining the iconic brand with a one-of-a-kind video game-themed destination,” according to the statement.

On-site entertainment will include fully-immersive experiences for every age and gaming ability, including the latest in virtual and augmented reality. Select hotels will also feature venues and studios to accommodate e-sports events.

“Together we’ll build a space that will be much more than just a place to stay,” said Fred Chesnais, CEO of Atari, in a written statement. “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.”

Created in 1972, Atari is often associated with video game nostalgia, which will inform the design aesthetic of the hotel — a retro-meets-modern look and feel.

The first Atari Hotel is planned for Downtown Phoenix, with additional properties in Las Vegas, Denver, Chicago, Austin, Seattle, San Francisco and San Jose coming soon.