Atari today, is nothing but a Name. Its not even close to being the same Company as it once was.
Its unlikely that any of the same employees / leaders, are part of any of the modern Atari brand name(s).
Not sure about Patents.. but some of them tend to be registered by the actual inventors / designers. Not by "Atari".
But of course... it makes sense that Jealous Snowflake ARK, would want to rain on everyone's Parade.
To people with NPD... they enjoy making other people suffer... and they have no problem blowing up Businesses,
and destroying peoples lives, to that end.
Personally... I think the product looks good... and Id love to be able to justify it... but no longer can.
One might consider the possibility of making DIY "Kits", that users can assemble and wire themselves... for a reduced price.
Also, the number of units is pretty low... which drove up the costs, and makes it harder for those whom wish to get hold of
them (at a later time when money Might be freed up) ... even harder.
Asking for more product ideas sound cool... but if the SW yoke is in total, about $600 (I think Atari got them in bulk for less than 200$)..
then what will the simple-pot Paddles cost? >_<
You seem proud that you didnt have to ask for Kickstarter money... and thats fine, if you feel that way... but Had you
actually kickstarted it... you could have probably got the costs Far Lower... and satisfied far more people in the process.