Solaris 2600 box art

Atari 2600 · Simulation / Action

Solaris

Deep cut

SystemAtari 2600
Released1986
GenreSimulation, Action
DeveloperAtari
PublisherAtari
Players1 player
CommitmentQuick session (Under an hour, or endless arcade fun)
LegacyDeep cut · legacy score 2

Released for the Atari 2600 in 1986, Solaris is a simulation game developed by Atari. It blends simulation and action elements.

It landed about 9 years into the 2600's life. Other notable 2600 releases from 1986 include Midnight Magic. Among the 13 2600 simulation games in our database, it ranks #7 by legacy score.

Atari also made E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Combat and Asteroids for the 2600.

This is a solo experience: one player, no waiting on anyone else.

Pick it if…

  • you want to think and plan
  • you have time for a quick session (under an hour, or endless arcade fun)
  • you've played the 2600 hits and want something less obvious

Maybe skip it if…

  • you want clear goals and a defined ending
  • you are looking for something to play with friends

What playing Solaris is like

Simulation games model a system and let you play inside it, whether that means building a city, flying a plane, raising a pet or running a business.

Tip for newcomers: Simulations are often open-ended. Set yourself small goals and enjoy experimenting with the systems.

Solaris gameplay screenshot on 2600
In-game screenshot (2600)

If you like Solaris, the Matrix also picks…

Playing 2600 games today

Most 2600 games are built for short, score-chasing sessions, which makes them perfect for a quick nostalgia hit. Original hardware is cheap and plentiful, the Atari 2600+ reissue plays original cartridges on modern TVs, and official collections such as Atari 50 bundle many first-party classics.

Solaris FAQ

When did Solaris come out on the 2600?

Solaris was released for the Atari 2600 in 1986.

Who made Solaris?

It was developed by Atari.

Is Solaris multiplayer?

No. Solaris is a single-player game.

How long does Solaris take to play?

As a simulation game, Solaris typically falls into the "Quick session" category: under an hour, or endless arcade fun. Your time will vary with skill and how much you explore.

Read more about Solaris on Wikipedia. Facts on this page are compiled from the open libretro database and Wikidata; "legacy score" reflects how widely a game is documented across Wikipedia's language editions. Spotted an error? Let us know.

Not sure? Let the Matrix pick for you