View source for Atari Jaguar

{{short description|Home video game console}}
{{Use American English|date=May 2015}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=November 2024}}
{{Infobox information appliance
| name = Jaguar
| logo = Atari Jaguar logo.svg
| image = Atari-Jaguar-Console-Set.png
| caption = Jaguar with original controller
| developer = [[Atari Corporation]]
| manufacturer = [[IBM]]
| type = [[Home video game console]]
| generation = [[Fifth generation of video game consoles|Fifth]]
| releasedate = {{vgrelease|NA|November 23, 1993<ref name="Jaguar_NA_RD">{{cite web|url= http://www.thefreelibrary.com/ATARI+SHIPS+JAGUAR+FOR+NEW+YORK+AND+SAN+FRANCISCO+MARKETS%3b+WORLD%27S...-a014659911|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160315141016/http://www.thefreelibrary.com/ATARI+SHIPS+JAGUAR+FOR+NEW+YORK+AND+SAN+FRANCISCO+MARKETS%3B+WORLD%27S...-a014659911|url-status= dead|archive-date= March 15, 2016|title= Atari Ships Jaguar For New York And San Francisco Markets; World's First 64-bit Interactive Multimedia Home Entertainment System Available|work= [[PR Newswire]]|date= November 23, 1993|access-date= May 10, 2011}}</ref>|EU|June 27, 1994|[[Australia|AU]]|August 1, 1994<ref name="Hjrb?">{{cite magazine|last=Humphreys|first=Andrew|url=https://retrocdn.net/index.php?title=File:Hyper_AU_009.pdf&page=20|title=Jaguar - Reality Bites?|magazine=[[Hyper (magazine)|Hyper]]|publisher=[[nextmedia|Next Media Pty Ltd]]|issue=9|date=August 1994|pages=20–25|access-date=August 4, 2018|archive-date=August 4, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180804075812/https://retrocdn.net/index.php?title=File:Hyper_AU_009.pdf&page=20|url-status=live}}</ref>|DE|September 1994<ref name="VGjid">{{cite magazine|author=Euer Video Games Team|url=https://archive.org/details/video-games-de-1994-09/page/38/mode/1up|title=Warpzone - Jaguar - Jaguar in Deutschland!|magazine=[[:de:Video Games|Video Games]]|issue=34|publisher=Future-Verlag|date=September 1994|page=38}}</ref>|JP|December 8, 1994<ref name="MFngbj">{{cite magazine|url=https://retrocdn.net/index.php?title=File%3AMegaFun_DE_1995-03.pdf&page=28|title=Scene - Next Generation Battle - Japan|magazine=[[:de:Mega Fun|Mega Fun]]|issue=30|publisher=CT Computec Verlag GmbH & Co. KG|date=March 1995|page=28|access-date=June 24, 2018|archive-date=July 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180713232606/https://retrocdn.net/index.php?title=File%3AMegaFun_DE_1995-03.pdf&page=28|url-status=live}}</ref>|ESP|April 1995<ref name="HCqcc?">{{cite magazine|url=https://archive.org/stream/HobbyConsolas051/Hobby_Consolas_051#page/n35/mode/2up|title=¿Qué Consola Comprar?|magazine=[[Hobby Consolas]]|issue=51|publisher=[[Axel Springer SE]]|date=December 1995|pages=36–37|lang=es}}</ref>}}
| discontinued = {{vgrelease||1996}}
| unitssold = &lt; 150,000<ref name="10-K405 SEC Filing, filed by ATARI CORP on 4/12/1996">{{Cite report |date=April 12, 1996 |title=Item 7. Management's discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations |url=https://google.brand.edgar-online.com/displayfilinginfo.aspx?FilingID=261582-33477-51099&type=sect |access-date=April 6, 2021 |work=Securities and Exchange Commission Form 10-K |publisher=[[Atari Corporation]] |page=8 |archive-date=February 25, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225185700/https://google.brand.edgar-online.com/displayfilinginfo.aspx?FilingID=261582-33477-51099&type=sect |url-status=dead }}</ref>
| media = [[ROM cartridge]]
| cpu = [[Motorola 68000]], 2 custom RISC processors
| memory = 2 MB [[RAM]]
| storage = Internal [[RAM]], cartridge
| topgame = [[Alien vs Predator (Atari Jaguar game)|''Alien vs Predator'']] (85,000)<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://oldgamemags.ukprintarchive.com/Multi-format%20Publications/Edge/Supplements/Suppl-Edge-022.pdf/#page/4|title=Jaguar: mass market machine|magazine=[[Edge (magazine)|Edge]]|issue=22 Supplementary|publisher=[[Future plc]]|date=July 1995|page=5|access-date=July 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180829175602/http://oldgamemags.ukprintarchive.com/Multi-format%20Publications/Edge/Supplements/Suppl-Edge-022.pdf/#page/4|archive-date=August 29, 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref>
| predecessor = {{unbulleted list|[[Atari 7800|7800]]|[[Atari XEGS|XEGS]]|[[Atari Panther|Panther]] (canceled)}}
| successor = <!-- Do not add Atari VCS as a successor. The VCS was produced by a different company with the Atari name, and the Jaguar is not directly related to it in any way. -->
| graphics = Tom chip (32-bit RISC architecture, 4 KB internal RAM)
| sound = Jerry chip (16-bit, two DACs, wavetable and AM synthesis)
| display = Composite, S-Video, RGB, or RF TV out
| CPUspeed = 13.295 MHz
}}

The '''Atari Jaguar''' is a [[home video game console]] developed by [[Atari Corporation]] and released in North America in November 1993. The Jaguar has a [[Motorola 68000]] CPU and two custom [[32-bit computing|32-bit]] [[coprocessor]]s named [[Tom and Jerry]]. Atari marketed it as the world's first [[64-bit computing|64-bit]] game system, drawing controversy as some argued that this configuration did not meet the definition of a 64-bit system.<ref name="Jaguar_NA_RD"/> The Jaguar launched with ''[[Cybermorph]]'' as the [[pack-in game]].<ref name="atariage.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.atariage.com/Jaguar/history.html|title=AtariAge - Atari Jaguar History|website=www.atariage.com|access-date=December 9, 2008|archive-date=May 13, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160513071033/http://www.atariage.com/Jaguar/history.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The system's library ultimately comprises only [[List of Atari Jaguar games|50 licensed games]].

Development started in the early 1990s by [[Flare Technology]], which focused on the system after cancellation of the [[Atari Panther|Panther]] console. The Jaguar was an important system for Atari after discontinuing [[Atari ST]] computers in favor of video games.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Clunky |magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]|issue=4|publisher=[[Imagine Media]]|date=April 1995|page=41}}</ref> However, game development was complicated by the multi-chip architecture, hardware bugs, and poor programming tools. Underwhelming sales further eroded third-party support.<ref name="atariage.com"/>

The Jaguar launched as part of the [[fifth generation of video game consoles]], but like other early fifth generation consoles, it struggled to capture major market share from the dominant [[Fourth generation of video game consoles|last generation]] consoles, the [[Sega Genesis|Genesis]] and [[Super NES]].<ref name=KretzingerLowCostNG>{{Cite book |first=Boris |last=Kretzinger |url=http://archive.org/details/clipped-claws |title=Clipped Claws |date=February 22, 2023 |pages=148-149, 224-225, 252-253 |accessdate=October 25, 2025}}</ref> Atari attempted to extend the system's lifespan by releasing the [[Atari Jaguar CD|Jaguar CD]] [[Video game accessory|add-on]], and emphasizing the Jaguar's price, which was more than {{US$|100}} less than that of its fifth generation competitors, among them the [[Sega Saturn]] and [[PlayStation (console)|Sony PlayStation]],<ref>{{cite magazine|date=May 1995|title=Once and Future Kings|url=https://archive.org/details/GamePro_Issue_070_May_1995/page/n29/mode/2up|publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]]|issue=80|pages=28–30|magazine=[[GamePro]]}}</ref> which both launched in 1995. However, the Jaguar failed to find its niche. Atari internally abandoned the system by the end of that year, liquidating its inventory by 1996.<ref name=":0" /> The commercial failure of the Jaguar prompted Atari to leave the console market and restructure itself as a [[third-party developer]]. After [[Hasbro Interactive]] acquired all of Atari Corporation's properties,<ref name="ataritohasbro" /> it released the Jaguar patents into the [[public domain]] in 1999 and declared it an open platform.<ref name="hasbro" /> Since its discontinuation, hobbyists have produced games for the system.<ref name="redundant" />

==History==
===Development===
Atari Corporation's previous home video game console, the [[Atari 7800]], was released in 1986. It was considered an "also-ran" and far behind rival [[Nintendo]].<ref name="Atari40">{{cite book|title=Atari: From Boom to Bust and Back Again |publisher=Imagine Publishing|year=2012}}</ref> Around 1989, work began on a new console leveraging technology from [[Atari ST]] computers. It was originally named the Super XE, following the [[Atari XE Game System|XE Game System]], and eventually became the [[Atari Panther|Panther]] using either 16 or 32-bit architecture. A more advanced system [[codename]]d Jaguar also began work.<ref name="Atari40"/>

Both the Jaguar and Panther were developed by the members of [[Flare Technology]], a company formed by [[Martin Brennan (engineer)|Martin Brennan]] and [[John Mathieson (computer scientist)|John Mathieson]]. The team had claimed that they could not only make a console superior to the [[Sega Genesis|Genesis]] or the [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System|Super NES]], but they could also be cost-effective.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Atari Explorer, Z*Net, & ST Report: Atari Explorer Online: 16-Jan-95 #0401 |url=https://www.atariarchives.org/cfn/09/09/02/0453.php |access-date=June 17, 2023 |website=www.atariarchives.org |archive-date=June 17, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230617225035/https://www.atariarchives.org/cfn/09/09/02/0453.php |url-status=live }}</ref> Atari was impressed by Flare's work on the [[Konix Multisystem]], and persuaded them to close Flare and form a new company called [[Flare Technology|Flare II]], to be funded by Atari.{{cn|date=September 2024}}

Work on the Jaguar design progressed faster than expected, so Atari canceled the Panther project in 1991<ref name="Atari40"/> to focus on the more promising Jaguar. Rumors were already circulating of a 1992 launch<ref>{{cite magazine |magazine=TheOne Magazine| title=TheOne Magazine | issue=36|date=September 1991|page=26}}</ref> and its 32-bit or even 64-bit architecture.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=The Jaguar Rules Atari's Jungle|magazine=GamePro|issue=30|date=January 1992|page=20}}</ref> By this time, the Atari ST had long been surpassed in popularity by the [[Amiga]], while both Atari and [[Commodore International|Commodore]] became victims of [[Wintel]], which became the dominant computer platform.<ref name="Atari40"/> Atari's support for [[Atari 8-bit computers|legacy 8-bit products]] was canceled to fully focus on developing the Jaguar,{{fact|date=April 2024}} and ST computers were canceled during the Jaguar's release in 1993.<ref name="Atari40"/>

The Jaguar was unveiled in August 1993 at the Chicago Consumer Entertainment Show.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Atari: From Boom to Bust and Back Again |magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]|issue=4|publisher=[[Imagine Media]]|date=April 1995|page=39}}</ref>

===Launch===
The Jaguar was launched on November 23, 1993, at {{US$|249.95|1993|round=-2}},<ref name="Jaguar_NA_RD"/> under a {{US$|500 million|long=no}} manufacturing deal with [[IBM]].<ref>{{cite news |title=COMPANY NEWS; I.B.M. TO MANUFACTURE NEW ATARI ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM (Published 1993) |work=The New York Times |date=June 29, 1993 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230525125430/https://www.nytimes.com/1993/06/29/business/company-news-ibm-to-manufacture-new-atari-entertainment-system.html |archive-date=May 25, 2023 |url-status=live |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1993/06/29/business/company-news-ibm-to-manufacture-new-atari-entertainment-system.html}}</ref> <!-- Other release prices, to be included once confirmed that each price was that at release, and not just a price found at some point in its sale history:

[[Pound sterling|£]]199.99–299.99<ref>{{cite magazine|url= https://retrocdn.net/index.php?title=File%3ACVG_UK_152.pdf&page=9 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230924013529/https://retrocdn.net/index.php?title=File%3ACVG_UK_152.pdf&page=9 |archive-date=September 24, 2023 |url-status=live|title=CVG News - Get Your Jaguars Now, Folks - The Cat Set Free At Last|magazine=[[Computer and Video Games]]|issue=152|publisher=[[Future plc]]|date=July 1994|page=9}}</ref>

[[Australian dollar|AU$]]700<ref name="Hj&3q">{{cite magazine|url=https://retrocdn.net/index.php?title=File:Hyper_AU_011.pdf&page=81|title=Letters - Jag & 3DO Queries|magazine=[[Hyper (magazine)|Hyper]]|publisher=[[nextmedia|Next Media Pty Ltd]]|issue=11|date=October 1994|page=81|access-date=August 4, 2018|archive-date=August 4, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180804075821/https://retrocdn.net/index.php?title=File:Hyper_AU_011.pdf&page=81|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[Deutsche Mark|DM]]550–600<ref name="VGjid"/>

[[Japanese yen|JP¥]]29,800<ref name="C+ljed">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.abandonware-magazines.org/affiche_mag.php?mag=51&num=7889&album=oui|title=Jaguar: Coup De Griffe Sur Le Japan!|magazine=[[:fr:Consoles +|Consoles +]]|issue=39|publisher=[[:fr: M.E.R.7|M.E.R.7]]|date=January 1995|pages=26–27|access-date=June 24, 2018|archive-date=June 25, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180625021515/http://www.abandonware-magazines.org/affiche_mag.php?mag=51&num=7889&album=oui|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[Spanish peseta|SPtas]]39,990<ref name="HCqcc?"/> --> The system was initially available only in the [[test market]]s of New York City and [[San Francisco]], with the slogan "Get bit by Jaguar", claiming superiority over competing 16-bit and 32-bit systems.<ref>{{Cite book |first=Boris |last=Kretzinger |url=http://archive.org/details/clipped-claws |title=Clipped Claws |date=February 22, 2023 |pages=96-97, 123-124 |accessdate=October 25, 2025}}</ref> During this test launch, Atari sold all units hoping it would rally support for the system.<ref name="auto">blob:https://imgur.com/0b9f824b-6413-4717-9628-8220ceb02910{{dead link|date=September 2021}}</ref> A nationwide release followed six months later, in early 1994.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Letters |magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]|issue=4|publisher=[[Imagine Media]]|date=April 1995|page=107 |quote=The fact is that occasionally products do launch in some 'test' markets before making it national. Atari's Jaguar is a prime example (it was available in San Francisco and New York six months before anywhere else).}}</ref> The Jaguar struggled to attain a substantial user base. Atari reported shipping 17,000 units as part of the test market in 1993.<ref>Atari Corporation Annual Report, 1993. pp 14.</ref> By the end of 1994, it reported that it had sold approximately 100,000 units.<ref>Atari Corporation Annual Report. pp 11.</ref> 

''[[Computer Gaming World]]'' wrote in January 1994 that the Jaguar was "a great machine in search of a developer/customer base", as Atari had to "overcome the stigma of its name (lack of marketing and customer support, as well as poor developer relations in the past)". Atari had "ventured late into third-party software support" for the Jaguar, but competing console [[3DO Interactive Multiplayer|3DO]]'s "18 month public relations blitz" resulted in "an avalanche of software support".<ref name="cgw199401">{{Cite magazine |last1=Miller |first1=Chuck |last2=Dille |first2=H. E. |last3=Wilson |first3=Johnny L. |date=January 1994 |title=Battle Of The New Machines |url=http://www.cgwmuseum.org/galleries/index.php?year=1994&pub=2&id=114 |magazine=Computer Gaming World |pages=64–76 |access-date=November 2, 2017 |archive-date=December 14, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191214005055/http://www.cgwmuseum.org/galleries/index.php?year=1994&pub=2&id=114 |url-status=live }}</ref> The small size and poor quality of the Jaguar's game library became the most commonly cited reason for tepid adoption, because early releases like ''[[Trevor McFur in the Crescent Galaxy]]'', ''[[Raiden (video game)|Raiden]]'', and ''[[Evolution: Dino Dudes]]'' also received poor reviews, the latter two for failing to take full advantage of the Jaguar's hardware.  Jaguar did eventually earn praise with games such as ''[[Tempest 2000]]'', ''[[Doom (1993 video game)|Doom]]'', and ''[[Wolfenstein 3D]]''.<ref name="Atari Jaguar History">''[http://www.atariage.com/Jaguar/history.html Atari Jaguar History] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160513071033/http://www.atariage.com/Jaguar/history.html |date=May 13, 2016 }}''. [[AtariAge]]. Retrieved December 9, 2008.</ref> The most successful game during the Jaguar's first year was ''[[Alien vs Predator (Atari Jaguar game)|Alien vs. Predator]]''.<ref name="ReferenceA">Atari Corporation 1994 annual report, p. 3.</ref> However, these occasional successes were seen as insufficient while the Jaguar's competitors were receiving a continual stream of critically acclaimed software; ''GamePro'' concluded its rave review of ''Alien vs. Predator'' by remarking "If Atari can turn out a dozen more games like ''AvP'', Jaguar owners could truly rest easy and enjoy their purchase."<ref name="ProReview: Alien vs. Predator">{{cite magazine|title=ProReview: Alien vs. Predator|magazine=[[GamePro]]|issue=75|publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]]|date=December 1994|pages=180–181}}</ref>  ''[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]'' commented that "thus far, Atari has spectacularly failed to deliver on the software side, leaving many to question the actual quality and capability of the hardware. With only one or two exceptions – ''Tempest 2000'' is cited most frequently – there have just been no truly great games for the Jaguar up to now." It further noted that though Atari is well known by older gamers, the company had much less overall [[brand recognition]] than Sega, Sony, Nintendo, or even The 3DO Company. However, they argued that with its low price point, the Jaguar might still compete if Atari could improve the software situation.<ref name=NGen12/>

===Bit count controversy===
Atari tried to downplay competing consoles by proclaiming the Jaguar was the only "64-bit" system; in its marketing in the American market the company used the tagline "''Do the math!"'', in reference to the 64 number. This claim is questioned by some, because the [[Motorola 68000]] [[Central processing unit|CPU]] and the Tom and Jerry coprocessors execute 32-bit instruction sets. Atari's reasoning that the 32-bit Tom and Jerry chips work in tandem to add up to a 64-bit system was ridiculed in a mini-editorial by ''[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]'', which commented that "If Sega did the math for the [[Sega Saturn]] the way Atari did the math for their 64-bit Jaguar system, the Sega Saturn would be a 112-bit monster of a machine."<ref>{{cite magazine|title=The Hot Number: 112|magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]|issue=71|publisher=Sendai Publishing|date=June 1995|page=30}}</ref> ''[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]'', in a mostly negative review of the Jaguar, maintained that it is a true 64-bit system, because the data path from the [[DRAM]] to the CPU and Tom and Jerry chips is 64 bits wide.<ref name="NGen12">{{cite magazine|title=Which Game System is the Best!?|magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]|issue=12|publisher=[[Imagine Media]]|date=December 1995|pages=36–85}}</ref>

===Arrival of Saturn and PlayStation===
In early 1995, Atari announced that it had dropped the price of the Jaguar to {{US$|149.99|1995|round=-2}}, to be more competitive. Atari ran [[infomercial]]s with enthusiastic salesmen touting the game system for most of 1995, but did not sell the remaining stock.<ref name=NGen24>{{cite magazine|last=Thomas|first=Don |title=Atari's Historic Road to Nowhere|magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]|issue=24 |publisher=[[Imagine Media]]|date=December 1996|pages=97–104}}</ref> The major shortcoming of presenting the Jaguar as the low-cost next-generation system was that the Jaguar did not measure up to the other next-generation systems in other respects, and consumers who were simply looking for an inexpensive video game console favored the Super NES and Genesis, since in addition to having a massive selection of games, they were priced at less than $100.<ref name=KretzingerLowCostNG/>

In a 1995 interview with ''[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]'', CEO Sam Tramiel declared the Jaguar at least as powerful than the newly launched [[Sega Saturn|Saturn]], and slightly weaker than the upcoming [[PlayStation (console)|PlayStation]].<ref>{{Cite magazine|title=Atari's President Talks Back |magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]] |issue=7 |date=July 1995|pages=6–12}}</ref> ''Next Generation'' received a deluge of letters in response to Tramiel's comments, particularly his threat to bring Sony to court for [[dumping (pricing policy)|price dumping]] if the PlayStation entered the U.S. market at a retail price below $300. Many readers found this threat hollow and hypocritical, since Tramiel noted in the same interview that Atari was selling the Jaguar at a loss. The editor responded that price dumping does not have to do with a product being priced below cost, but its being priced much lower in one country than another{{mdash}}which, as Tramiel said, is illegal. Tramiel and ''Next Generation'' agreed that the PlayStation's Japanese price converts to approximately $500. His remark, that the small number of third party Jaguar games was good for Atari's profitability, angered Jaguar owners already frustrated at the small library.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Letters|magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]|issue=10|publisher=[[Imagine Media]]|date=October 1995|page=140}}</ref>

Atari's 1995 annual report noted: {{blockquote|Jaguar sales were substantially below Atari's expectations, and Atari's business and financial results were materially adversely affected in 1995 as Atari continued to invest heavily in Jaguar game development, entered into arrangements to publish certain licensed titles and reduced the retail price for its Jaguar console unit. Atari attributes the poor performance of Jaguar to a number of factors including (i) extensive delays in development of software for the Jaguar which resulted in reduced orders due to consumer concern as to when titles for the platform would be released and how many titles would ultimately be available, and (ii) the introduction of competing products by Sega and Sony in May 1995 and September 1995, respectively.<ref>[https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802019/0000891618-96-000213.txt Atari Corporation Annual Report, 1993] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170706035949/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/802019/0000891618-96-000213.txt |date=July 6, 2017 }}. pp 3.</ref>}} In addition, Atari had severely limited financial resources, and so could not create the level of marketing which has historically backed successful gaming consoles.<ref name=NGen24/>

===Decline===
Figures from the [[NPD Group]] showed that at the end of year 1995, the Jaguar had statistically a share of zero percent of the "sold through" units (which are systems purchased by consumers) in the 32-bit market, which was also lower than the one percent held by its struggling rival [[3DO Interactive Multiplayer|3DO]].<ref name="3-3DO">{{cite magazine |last= |first= |date=May 1996 |title=Just who is winning the 32-bit war? |url=https://dn790006.ca.archive.org/0/items/Next-Generation-1996-05/Next%20Generation%201996-05.pdf |magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]] |publisher= |page=22 | volume=2 |issue=5 | via=[[Internet Archive]] | access-date=}}</ref>

By November 1995, mass layoffs and insider statements were fueling journalistic speculation that Atari had ceased both development and manufacturing for the Jaguar and was simply trying to sell off existing stock before exiting the video game industry.<ref name=NGen13>{{cite magazine |title=Atari Drops Jaguar?|magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]|issue=13|publisher=[[Imagine Media]] |date=January 1996|page=21|quote=Then in November, UK newspaper ''The Sunday Times'' ... put forward that Atari plans to give up on the Jaguar in favor of PC development ... ''The Sunday Times'' article is not the only piece of speculation regarding Atari's commitment to hardware to have appeared in the media over the last two weeks.}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|title=Atari Teeters on Grave's Edge|magazine=[[GamePro]]|issue=91|publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]]|date=April 1996|page=16}}</ref> Although Atari continued to deny these theories going into 1996, core Jaguar developers such as [[High Voltage Software]] and [[Beyond Games]] stated that they were no longer receiving communications from Atari regarding future Jaguar projects.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Crumbling Atari Still Defiant |magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]|issue=16|publisher=[[Imagine Media]]|date=April 1996|pages=16–17}}</ref>

In its [[Form 10-K405|10-K405 SEC Filing]], filed April 12, 1996,<ref name="10-K405 SEC Filing, filed by ATARI CORP on 4/12/1996"/> Atari informed stockholders that its revenues had declined by more than half, from $38.7 million in 1994 to $14.6 million in 1995, then gave them the news on the truly dire nature of the Jaguar:

{{blockquote|From the introduction of Jaguar in late 1993 through the end of 1995, Atari sold approximately 125,000 units of Jaguar. As of December 31, 1995, Atari had approximately 100,000 units of Jaguar in inventory.}}

The filing confirmed that Atari had abandoned the Jaguar in November 1995 and in the subsequent months was concerned chiefly with liquidating its inventory of Jaguar products.<ref name=":0">{{cite magazine |title=Stop Press: Ashes to Ashes... |magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]|issue=19|publisher=[[Imagine Media]] |date=July 1996|page=17}}</ref> On April 8, 1996, Atari Corporation agreed to merge with [[JT Storage|JTS, Inc.]] in a [[reverse takeover]],<ref name="jtmerger">{{cite web | url=http://contracts.onecle.com/atari/jt.mer.1996.04.08.shtml | title=Atari and JT Storage Reorganisation Plan | publisher=One Cle | access-date=November 25, 2006| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20061209123854/http://contracts.onecle.com/atari/jt.mer.1996.04.08.shtml| archive-date=December 9, 2006 | url-status=dead}}</ref> thus forming JTS Corporation. The merger was finalized on July 30.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Video Game Timeline |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |issue=102|publisher=[[Ziff Davis]]|date=January 1998 |page=137}}</ref>

After the merger, the bulk of Jaguar inventory remained unsold<ref name=NGen24/> and would be finally moved out to Tiger Software, a private [[Liquidation|liquidator]], on December 23, 1996.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://mcurrent.name/atarihistory/jt_storage.html|title=A History of JT Storage / JTS (including the Atari division)|website=mcurrent.name|access-date=May 31, 2020|archive-date=April 27, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210427140329/https://mcurrent.name/atarihistory/jt_storage.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On March 13, 1998, JTS sold the Atari name and properties to [[Hasbro Interactive]].<ref name="ataritohasbro">{{cite web|last=Johnston|first=Chris|date=April 8, 2000|title=Atari Goes to Hasbro|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/atari-goes-to-hasbro/1100-2462915/|website=[[GameSpot]]|access-date=February 20, 2020|archive-date=February 4, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204132911/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/atari-goes-to-hasbro/1100-2462915/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Technical specifications==
From the Jaguar Software Reference manual, page 1:<ref name=atarimanual>{{cite book | author = Atari Corp. | title = Jaguar Software Reference Manual - Version 2.4 | publisher = Atari Corp. | year = 1995 | url = http://www.hillsoftware.com/files/atari/jaguar/jag_v8.pdf | access-date = November 26, 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130315005843/http://www.hillsoftware.com/files/atari/jaguar/jag_v8.pdf | archive-date = March 15, 2013 | url-status = dead }}</ref>

{{blockquote|Jaguar is a custom chip set primarily intended to be the heart of a very high-performance games/leisure computer. It may also be used as a graphics accelerator in more complex systems, and applied to workstation and business uses. As well as a general purpose CPU, Jaguar contains four processing units. These are the Object Processor, Graphics Processor, Blitter, and Digital Sound Processor. Jaguar provides these blocks with a 64-bit data path to external memory devices, and is capable of a very high data transfer rate into external dynamic RAM.}}

[[File:Atari-Jaguar-Motherboard-Flat.jpg|thumb|The Jaguar's multi-chip architecture was difficult to use for most contemporary developers.]]
Design specs for the console allude to the GPU or DSP being capable of acting as a CPU, leaving the Motorola 68000 to read controller inputs. Atari's Leonard Tramiel also specifically suggested that the 68000 not be used by developers. In practice, however, many developers use the Motorola 68000 to drive gameplay logic due to the greater developer familiarity of the 68000 and the adequacy of the 68000 for certain types of games. Most critically, a flaw in the [[memory controller]] means that certain obscure conventions must be followed for the RISC chips to be able to execute code from [[Random-access memory|RAM]].<ref name="Owl">{{cite web |url=http://atariowlproject.blogspot.com/2009/10/atari-jaguar-homebrew-whats-this-lay.html |title=What's this "Lay off the 68k" and "GPU in Main" Malarkey? (TECHNICAL) |author=Joe Venor |publisher=The Owl Project |date=2009 |access-date=February 18, 2018 |archive-date=June 12, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612142447/http://atariowlproject.blogspot.com/2009/10/atari-jaguar-homebrew-whats-this-lay.html |url-status=live }}{{better source needed|date=October 2021}}</ref>

The system was notoriously difficult to program for, because its multi-processor design is complex,  development tools were released in an unfinished state, and the hardware had crippling bugs.<ref>[https://www.retrogamer.net/profiles/hardware/atari-jaguar-2/ ATARI JAGUAR] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150906051454/http://www.retrogamer.net/profiles/hardware/atari-jaguar-2/ |date=September 6, 2015 }} by Retro Gamer Team, November 27, 2014</ref>

===Processors===
* Tom chip, 26.59 [[megahertz|MHz]]
** [[Graphics processing unit]] (GPU) – 32-[[bit]] [[reduced instruction set computing|RISC]] architecture, 4 [[kilobyte|KB]] internal RAM, all graphical effects are software-based, with additional instructions intended for 3D operations
** Object Processor – 64-bit fixed-function video processor, converts display lists to video output at scan time.
** [[Blitter]] – 64-bit high speed logic operations, [[z-buffering]] and [[Gouraud shading]], with 64-bit internal registers.
** [[Dynamic random-access memory|DRAM]] controller, 8-, 16-, 32- and 64-bit memory management
* Jerry chip, 26.59 [[megahertz|MHz]]
** Digital Signal Processor – 32-[[bit]] [[Reduced instruction set computing|RISC]] architecture, 8 KB internal RAM
*** Similar [[reduced instruction set computing|RISC]] core as the [[graphics processing unit|GPU]], additional instructions intended for audio operations
** CD-quality sound (16-bit stereo)
*** Number of sound channels limited by software
*** Two DACs (stereo) convert digital data to analog sound signals
*** Full [[stereophonic sound|stereo]] capabilities
** [[Sample-based synthesis|Wavetable synthesis]] and AM synthesis
** A clock control block, incorporating timers, and a [[universal asynchronous receiver-transmitter|UART]]
** Joystick control
* [[Motorola 68000]] - system processor "used as a manager".<ref>Atari Jaguar Software Reference Manual, Atari Corp. 1995, Pg 2</ref>
** General purpose 16-/32-bit control processor, 13.295 [[megahertz|MHz]]

===Other features===
[[File:Atari-Jaguar-Console-Back.jpg|thumb|The inputs and outputs of an [[NTSC]] Jaguar]]
* [[Random-access memory|RAM]]: 2 [[Megabyte|MB]] on a 64-bit bus using 4 16-bit fast-page-mode DRAMs (80 [[Nanosecond|ns]])<ref>[http://untergrund.net/users/ggn/Atari%20HQ/Documents/Atari/Jaguar/Eco1686.pdf Atari Jaguar Order]{{Dead link|date=January 2022 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}, [[Atari]], 1994</ref>
* Storage: [[ROM cartridge]]s – up to 6 MB
* DSP-port (JagLink)
* Monitor-port (composite/S-Video/RGB)
* Antenna-port (UHF/VHF) - fixed at 591 MHz in Europe; not present on French model
* Support for ComLynx [[input/output|I/O]]
* NTSC/PAL machines can be identified by their power LED colour, Red: NTSC; Green: PAL.

===COJAG arcade games===
{{Main|Atari CoJag}}
[[Atari Games]] licensed the Jaguar's chipset for use in its arcade games. The system, named CoJag (for "Coin-Op Jaguar"), replaced the [[Motorola 68000|68000]] with a [[Motorola 68020|68020]] or [[MIPS Technologies|MIPS]] [[R3000]]-based CPU (depending on the board version), added more RAM, a full 64-bit wide ROM bus (Jaguar ROM bus is 32-bit), and optionally a hard drive (some games such as ''Freeze'' are ROM only). It runs the lightgun games ''[[Area 51 (1995 video game)|Area 51]]'' and ''[[Maximum Force]]'', which were released as dedicated cabinets or as the ''Area 51'' and ''Maximum Force'' combo machine. Other games were developed but never released: ''3 On 3 Basketball'', ''Fishin' Frenzy'', ''Freeze'', and ''Vicious Circle''.

==Peripherals==
{{Multiple image
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Prior to the launch of the console in November 1993, Atari had announced a variety of peripherals to be released over the console's lifespan. This included a [[CD-ROM]]-based console, [[dial-up Internet access]] with support for [[online game]]s, a [[virtual reality]] headset, and an [[MPEG-2]] video card.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Atari's 64-bit Jaguar Stalks the Competition|magazine=[[GamePro]]|issue=51|publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]]|date=October 1993|pages=16–17}}</ref><ref name="cgw199311">{{cite magazine | url=http://www.cgwmuseum.org/galleries/index.php?year=1993&pub=2&id=112 | title=Atari Jaguar Unveiled—Stalks 3DO | magazine=Computer Gaming World | date=November 1993 | access-date=March 28, 2016 | pages=10–11 | archive-date=March 16, 2016 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160316202150/http://cgwmuseum.org/galleries/index.php?year=1993&pub=2&id=112 | url-status=live }}</ref> However, due to the poor sales and eventual commercial failure of the Jaguar, most of the peripherals in development were canceled. The only peripherals and add-ons released by Atari for the Jaguar are a redesigned controller, an adapter for [[Multiplayer video game|four players]], a CD console add-on, and a link cable for [[local area network]] (LAN) gaming.

The redesigned second controller, the ProController by Atari, added three more face buttons and two triggers.<ref name="GPro89">{{cite magazine|title=Feline Friends |magazine=[[GamePro]] |issue=89 |publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]]|date=February 1996|page=22}}</ref> It was created in response to the criticism of the original controller, said to lack enough buttons for fighting games in particular. It was never bundled with the system. The Team Tap [[multitap]] adds 4-controller support, compatible only with the optionally bundled ''[[White Men Can't Jump (video game)|White Men Can't Jump]]''<ref name="computinghistory.org.uk">{{cite web|title=Atari Team Tap Multi-Player Adapter|url=http://www.computinghistory.org.uk/det/34799/Atari-Team-Tap-Multi-Player-Adapter/|website=[[The Centre for Computing History]]|access-date=June 11, 2015|archive-date=September 23, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923205922/http://www.computinghistory.org.uk/det/34799/Atari-Team-Tap-Multi-Player-Adapter/|url-status=live}}</ref> and ''[[NBA Jam Tournament Edition]]''.<ref>{{cite web|title=NBA Jam Tournament Edition (Jaguar) - Manual|url=https://atariage.com/manual_html_page.html?SoftwareID=2512|website=[[Atari Age#AtariAge (website)|AtariAge]]|publisher=[Original publisher: [[Midway Games]]]|date=February 1995|access-date=June 11, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150425173718/http://atariage.com/manual_html_page.html?SoftwareID=2512|archive-date=April 25, 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref> Eight player gameplay with two Team Taps is possible<ref name="computinghistory.org.uk"/> but not supported by either of the compatible games.<ref name="GPro89"/> For LAN multiplayer support, the Jaglink Interface links two Jaguar consoles<ref name="GPro89"/> through a modular extension and a [[Twisted pair#Unshielded twisted pair|UTP]] phone cable. It is compatible with three games: ''[[Doom (1993 video game)|Doom]]'', ''[[AirCars]]'',<ref name="GW8">{{cite magazine|url=https://archive.org/details/games-world-08/page/n73/mode/2up|title=Games Watch: AirCars|magazine=[[Games World]]|issue=8|publisher=[[Paragon Publishing]]|date=February 1995|pages=74–75}}</ref><ref name="Allgame">{{cite web|author=Rovi Games|url=http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=7197|title=Aircars - Overview|work=[[AllGame]]|publisher=[[Rovi Corporation]]|date=2007|access-date=April 18, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141114113644/http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=7197|archive-date=November 14, 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> and ''[[BattleSphere]]''.<ref name="MF32">{{cite magazine|url=https://retrocdn.net/index.php?title=File%3AMegaFun_DE_1995-05.pdf&page=14|title=News - Jaguar: BattleSphere|magazine={{ill|Mega Fun|lt=Mega Fun|de|Mega Fun}}|issue=32|publisher=[[Computec]]|date=May 1995|page=14|language=de}}</ref><ref name="IGFv2i8">{{cite magazine|last=Jung|first=Robert A.|url=https://archive.org/details/intelligent-gamers-fusion-1996-04/page/n70/mode/1up|title=Previews: BattleSphere — Garage Development Team 4Play Primes a Rarity: Hot Jag Software|magazine=Intelligent Gamer's Fusion|volume=2|issue=8|publisher=Decker Publications|date=April 1996|pages=71}}</ref>

In 1994 at the CES, Atari announced that it had partnered with Phylon to create the Jaguar Voice/Data Communicator. The unit was delayed. An estimated 100 units were produced, but in 1995, it was canceled. The Jaguar Voice Modem or JVM utilizes a 19.9 kbit/s dial up modem to answer incoming phone calls and store up to 18 phone numbers. Players directly dial each other for online play, only compatible with ''[[Ultra Vortek]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Vinciguerra|first=Robert|title=A Complete History of Online Console Gaming in the United States|url=http://www.revrob.com/sci-a-tech-topmenu-52/38-a-complete-history-of-online-console-gaming-in-the-united-states|work=The Rev. Rob Times|publisher=RevRob.com|access-date=December 5, 2007|archive-url=https://archive.today/20141014170527/http://www.revrob.com/sci-a-tech-topmenu-52/38-a-complete-history-of-online-console-gaming-in-the-united-states|archive-date=October 14, 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Jaguar CD===
{{Main|Atari Jaguar CD}}

{{multiple image
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}}

The [[Jaguar CD]] is a [[CD-ROM]] peripheral for games. It was released in September 1995, two years after the Jaguar's launch. Eleven CD games were released for the Jaguar CD during its manufacturing lifetime, with more being made later by [[Homebrew (video games)|homebrew]] developers. Each Jaguar CD unit has a [[Virtual Light Machine]], which displays light patterns corresponding to music, if the user inserts an audio CD into the console. It was developed by [[Jeff Minter]], after experimenting with graphics during the development of ''[[Tempest 2000]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Minter|first1=Jeff|title=VLM - History|url=http://www.minotaurproject.co.uk/vlm.php|publisher=[[Jeff Minter|Llamasoft]]|access-date=June 11, 2015|archive-date=May 19, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150519043441/http://www.minotaurproject.co.uk/vlm.php|url-status=live}}</ref> The program was deemed a spiritual successor to the [[Atari Video Music]], a visualizer released in 1976.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Wolf|first1=Mark J. P.|title=Abstraction in the Video Game|url=http://www.phil-fak.uni-duesseldorf.de/fileadmin/Redaktion/Institute/Kultur_und_Medien/Medien_und_Kulturwissenschaft/Dozenten/Szentivanyi/Computerspielanalyse_aus_kulturwissenschaftlicher_Sicht/WolfAbstraction.pdf |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20221009/http://www.phil-fak.uni-duesseldorf.de/fileadmin/Redaktion/Institute/Kultur_und_Medien/Medien_und_Kulturwissenschaft/Dozenten/Szentivanyi/Computerspielanalyse_aus_kulturwissenschaftlicher_Sicht/WolfAbstraction.pdf |archive-date=October 9, 2022 |url-status=live|date=2003|access-date=June 11, 2015}}</ref>

The Memory Track is a cartridge accessory for the Jaguar CD, providing Jaguar CD games with 128 K [[EEPROM]] for persistent storage of data such as preferences and saved games.<ref name="GPro89"/><ref>
{{citation |url=https://archive.org/details/game-informer-issue-32-december-1995/page/n61/mode/1up 
|publisher=GI Magazine
|title=Tech Talk: Atari Releases a Product!!!
|page=60 |access-date=August 18, 2024
|orig-date=December 2005 |date=August 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Atari Memory Track - User Manual|url=http://kick-ass.asuscomm.com/html/library/documents/mt.pdf|publisher=[[Atari Corporation]]|date=1995|access-date=June 12, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150509193646/http://kick-ass.asuscomm.com/html/library/documents/mt.pdf|archive-date=May 9, 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref> The Jaguar Duo ([[codename]]d Jaguar III) was a proposal to integrate the Jaguar CD to make a new console, a concept similar to the [[TurboDuo]] and [[Genesis CDX]].<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Todd|first=Mowatt|title=Atari to Unleash New Jaguar CD and Jaguar III|magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]|issue=70|publisher=[[Ziff Davis]]|date=May 1995|pages=28}}</ref> A prototype, described by journalists as resembling a [[bathroom scale]], was unveiled at the 1995 Winter [[Consumer Electronics Show]],<ref>{{cite magazine|title=WCES: The Calm Before the Storm |magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]|issue=3|publisher=[[Imagine Media]]|date=March 1995|page=19}}</ref> but the console was canceled before production.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Edwards |first=Benj |url=https://www.pcmag.com/slideshow/story/264435/10-unreleased-video-game-consoles/3 |title=10 Unreleased Video Game Consoles - Atari Jaguar Duo (1995) - Slideshow from |magazine=PC Magazine |date=May 14, 2011 |access-date=November 24, 2013 |archive-date=December 2, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202235650/http://www.pcmag.com/slideshow/story/264435/10-unreleased-video-game-consoles/3 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

===Jaguar VR===
A [[virtual reality]] headset compatible with the console, tentatively titled the Jaguar VR, was unveiled by Atari at the 1995 Winter [[Consumer Electronics Show]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Iida|first1=Keita|last2=Goldberg|first2=Marty|title=Atari Jaguar VR Headset|url=http://www.atarihq.com/museum/jaglynx/jagvr.html|website=AGH Museum|publisher=Atari Gaming Headquarters|access-date=June 10, 2015|archive-date=April 18, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170418190341/http://www.atarihq.com/museum/jaglynx/jagvr.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The development of the peripheral was a response to [[Nintendo]]'s virtual reality console, the [[Virtual Boy]], which had been announced the previous year.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.planetvb.com/modules/advertising/?r17|title=Nintendo introduces video game players to three-dimensional worlds with new virtual reality video game system|publisher=[[Business Wire]] / Planet Virtual Boy|date=November 14, 1994|access-date=June 10, 2015|archive-date=June 28, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628124825/https://www.planetvb.com/modules/advertising/?r17|url-status=live}}</ref> The headset was developed in cooperation with [[Virtuality (gaming)|Virtuality]], which had previously created many virtual reality [[arcade game|arcade systems]], and was already developing a similar headset for practical purposes, named [[Virtuality (gaming)#Project Elysium|Project Elysium]], for [[IBM]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Dye|first1=Lee|title=The Cutting Edge: COMPUTING / TECHNOLOGY / INNOVATION : Virtual Reality Applications Expand : Imaging: Technology is finding important places in medicine, engineering and many other realms.|url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1995-02-22-fi-34851-story.html|website=[[Los Angeles Times]]|date=February 22, 1995|access-date=June 10, 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925105508/http://articles.latimes.com/1995-02-22/business/fi-34851_1_virtual-reality |archive-date=September 25, 2015}}</ref> The peripheral was targeted for a commercial release before Christmas 1995.<ref>{{cite magazine|author=Quartermann|title=Gaming Gossip|magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]|issue=70|publisher=[[Ziff Davis]]|date=May 1995|pages=54}}</ref> However, the deal with Virtuality was abandoned in October 1995.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=1995: The Calm Before the Storm?|magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]|issue=13 |publisher=[[Imagine Media]] |date=January 1996|page=56}}</ref><ref name="vr">{{cite web|last1=Thompson|first1=Clint|title=Jaguar VR|url=http://jagcube.atari.org/jaguarvr.html|website=JagCube|publisher=Atari.org|access-date=June 10, 2015|archive-date=April 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180409174210/http://jagcube.atari.org/jaguarvr.html|url-status=live}}</ref> After Atari's merger with [[JT Storage|JTS]] in 1996, all prototypes of the headset were allegedly destroyed. However, two working units, one low-resolution prototype with red and grey-colored graphics and one high-resolution prototype with blue and grey-colored graphics, have since been recovered, and are regularly showcased at [[retrogaming]]-themed conventions and festivals.<ref>{{cite web|title=Incredibly Rare Working Prototype 'Atari Jaguar Virtual Reality Headset' Hardware Surfaces On eBay|url=http://www.retrocollect.com/News/incredibly-rare-working-prototype-atari-jaguar-virtual-reality-headset-hardware-surfaces-on-ebay.html|website=RetroCollect|date=January 23, 2015|access-date=June 10, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190323200514/http://www.retrocollect.com/News/incredibly-rare-working-prototype-atari-jaguar-virtual-reality-headset-hardware-surfaces-on-ebay.html|archive-date=March 23, 2019|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="Geek">{{cite web|last=Plafke|first=James|url=http://www.geek.com/games/the-atari-jaguar-had-a-vr-headset-auction-1536947/|title=Atari Jaguar had a VR headset?! One of the two left intact is up for auction|work=[[Geek.com]]|publisher=[[Ziff Davis]]|date=January 23, 2013|access-date=2025-08-23|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131105094901/http://www.geek.com/games/the-atari-jaguar-had-a-vr-headset-auction-1536947/|archive-date=2013-11-05|url-status=dead}}</ref> Only one game was developed for the Jaguar VR prototype: a 3D-rendered version of the 1980 arcade game ''[[Missile Command]]'', titled ''[[Missile Command 3D]]''.<ref name="Geek"/><ref name="AtariFanMC3D:1">{{cite magazine|last=Riba L.|first=Alex|url=https://archive.org/details/AtariFan/AtariFan_09/page/n19/mode/1up|title=Juegos: Missile Command 3D|magazine=Atari Fan|issue=9|publisher=Comercial Atheneum, S.A.|date=January 1997|page=20|language=es}}</ref><ref name="JEOv1i1">{{cite magazine|last=Halliwell|first=Clay|url=http://www.atarihq.com/jeo/archive.htm|title=Martin Brownlow Interview: The programmer of MC3D speaks|magazine=Jaguar Explorer Online|volume=1|issue=1|publisher=White Space Publishers|date=March 27, 1997|access-date=2025-08-23|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303202933/http://www.atarihq.com/jeo/archive.htm|archive-date=2016-03-03|url-status=dead}} ([https://www.atarimax.com/freenet/freenet_material/6.16and32-BitComputersSupportArea/8.OnlineMagazines/showarticle.php?637 Transcription] by The Cleveland Free-Net Atari SIG Historical Archive. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060516025112/https://www.atarimax.com/freenet/freenet_material/6.16and32-BitComputersSupportArea/8.OnlineMagazines/showarticle.php?637|date=2006-05-16}}).</ref> A demo of Virtuality's ''[[Zone Hunter]]'' was created.<ref name="vr"/>

===Unlicensed peripherals===
An unofficial expansion peripheral for the Jaguar dubbed the "Catbox" was released by the [[Rockford, Illinois]] company ICD. It was originally slated to be released early in the Jaguar's life, in the second quarter of 1994,<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Jaguar's Cat Box|magazine=[[GamePro]]|issue=69|publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]]|date=June 1994|pages=184–186}}</ref> but was not actually released until mid-1995.<ref name="GPro83">{{cite magazine|title=No Litterbox|magazine=[[GamePro]]|issue=83|publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]]|date=August 1995|page=108}}</ref> The ICD CatBox plugs directly into the AV/DSP connectors located in the rear of the Jaguar console and provides three main functions. These are audio, video, and communications. It features six output formats, three for audio ([[Line level]] stereo, RGB monitor, [[Headphones|headphone]] jack with volume control) and three for video ([[Composite video|composite]], [[S-Video]], and [[Component video|RGB analog component video]]) making the Jaguar compatible with multiple high quality monitor systems and multiple monitors at the same time. It is capable of communications methods known as CatNet and [[RS-232]] and [[Digital signal processor|DSP]] pass through, allowing the user to connect two or more Jaguars together for multiplayer games either directly or with modems. The ICD CatBox features a polished stainless steel casing<ref name="GPro83"/> and red [[Light-emitting diode|LED]]s in the jaguar's eyes on the logo that indicate communications activity. An [[IBM Personal Computer/AT|IBM AT]]-type null modem cable may be used to connect two Jaguars together.<ref>Official CatBox Manual - Final Version 1.01c - May 8, 1996</ref> The CatBox is also compatible with Atari's Jaglink Interface peripheral.

==Game library==
{{main|List of Atari Jaguar games}}

{{see also|List of cancelled Atari Jaguar games|List of Atari Jaguar homebrew games}}

==Reception==
Reviewing the Jaguar just a few weeks prior to its launch, ''[[GamePro]]'' gave it a "thumbs sideways". They praised the power of the hardware but criticized the controller, and were dubious of how the software lineup would turn out, commenting that Atari's failure to secure support from key third party publishers such as [[Capcom]] was a bad sign. They concluded: "Like the [[3DO Interactive Multiplayer|3DO]], the Jaguar is a risky investment – just not quite as expensive."<ref>{{cite magazine|title=System Shopper|magazine=[[GamePro]]|issue=63|publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]]|date=December 1993|pages=46–49}}</ref>

The Jaguar won ''[[GameFan]]''{{'}}s "Best New System" award for 1993.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=GameFan's 2nd Annual Megawards|url=https://archive.org/stream/GamefanVolume2Issue02/GamefanVolume2Issue02February1994#page/n57/mode/2up|magazine=[[GameFan]]|issue=2|publisher=Shinno Media|date=January 1994|volume=2 |page=58|quote=Best New System: Winner: The Atari Jaguar}}</ref>

The small size and poor quality of the Jaguar's game library became the most commonly cited reason for its failure in the marketplace. The pack-in game ''[[Cybermorph]]'' was one of the first [[Polygon (computer graphics)|polygon]]-based games for consoles, but was criticized for design flaws and a weak color palette, and compared unfavorably with the SNES's ''[[Star Fox (1993 video game)|Star Fox]]''. Other early releases like ''[[Trevor McFur in the Crescent Galaxy]]'', ''[[Raiden (video game)|Raiden]]'', and ''[[Evolution: Dino Dudes]]'' also received poor reviews, the latter two for failing to take full advantage of the Jaguar's hardware. The Jaguar did eventually earn praise with games such as ''[[Tempest 2000]]'', ''[[Doom (1993 video game)|Doom]]'' and ''[[Wolfenstein 3D]]''.<ref name="Atari Jaguar History"/> The most successful title during the Jaguar's first year was ''[[Alien vs Predator (Atari Jaguar game)|Alien vs. Predator]]''.<ref name="ReferenceA"/> However, these occasional successes were seen as insufficient, while the Jaguar's competitors were receiving a continual stream of critically acclaimed software; ''GamePro'' concluded their rave review of ''Alien vs. Predator'' by remarking: "If Atari can turn out a dozen more games like ''AvP'', Jaguar owners could truly rest easy and enjoy their purchase."<ref name="ProReview: Alien vs. Predator"/> In a late 1995 review of the Jaguar, ''[[Game Players]]'' remarked: "The Jaguar suffers from several problems, most importantly the lack of good software."<ref name=GPl79>{{cite magazine |title=System Analysis: Jaguar / Jaguar CD|magazine=[[Game Players]]|issue=79|publisher=Signal Research |date=1995|page=68}}</ref> ''[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]'' likewise commented that "thus far, Atari has spectacularly failed to deliver on the software side, leaving many to question the actual quality and capability of the hardware. With only one or two exceptions – ''Tempest 2000'' is cited most frequently – there have just been no truly great games for the Jaguar up to now." They further noted that though Atari is well known by older gamers, the company had much less overall [[brand recognition]] than Sega, Sony, Nintendo, or even The 3DO Company. However, they argued that with its low price point, the Jaguar might still compete if Atari could improve the software situation. They gave the system two out of five stars.<ref name=NGen12/> ''Game Players'' also stated though it is 64-bit, the Jaguar is much less powerful than the 3DO, Saturn, and PlayStation, even when supplemented with the Jaguar CD.<ref name=GPl79/> With such a small library of games<ref name="wired">{{cite web|url=https://www.wired.com/gaming/gamingreviews/multimedia/2007/05/gallery_game_history?slide=28&slideView=7|title=Console Portraits: A 40-Year Pictorial History of Gaming|access-date=March 23, 2008|author=Greg Orlando|date=May 15, 2007|work=[[Wired (website)|Wired News]]|publisher=[[Condé Nast Publications]]|url-access=registration|archive-date=December 23, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081223161345/http://www.wired.com/gaming/gamingreviews/multimedia/2007/05/gallery_game_history?slide=28&slideView=7|url-status=live}}</ref> to challenge the incumbent 16-bit game consoles, the Jaguar's appeal never grew beyond a small gaming audience. ''Digital Spy'' commented: "Like many failed hardware ventures, it still maintains something of a cult following but can only be considered a misstep for Atari."<ref>Mark Langshaw. "[http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/gaming/news/a453849/atari-retrospective-the-rise-and-fall-of-a-gaming-giant.html Atari retrospective: The rise and fall of a gaming giant] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150628080650/http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/gaming/news/a453849/atari-retrospective-the-rise-and-fall-of-a-gaming-giant.html |date=June 28, 2015 }}". ''Digital Spy'', January 27, 2013.</ref>

In 2006, ''[[IGN]]'' editor Craig Harris rated the original Jaguar controller as the worst game controller ever, criticizing the unwarranted recycling of the 1980s "phone keypad" format and the small number of action buttons, which he found particularly unwise given that Atari was actively trying to court fighting game fans to the system.<ref name =harris>{{cite web|title=Top 10 Tuesday: Worst Game Controllers|url=http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/690/690449p1.html|website=IGN|access-date=August 7, 2009|date=February 21, 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070114141120/http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/690/690449p1.html|archive-date=January 14, 2007|url-status=dead}}</ref> In an overview of the Jaguar's launch, Andrew McNamara of ''[[Game Informer]]'' said that the controller "is better than we suspected, but is still behind the times", arguing that by this time a controller with at least six action buttons was essential, if not as a pack-in, then at least as a peripheral available at launch.<ref>{{cite magazine|first=Andrew|last=McNamara |title=Atari Stalks the Top Slot with their 64-bit Jaguar System |url=https://archive.org/details/game-informer-issue-14-january-february-1994_202408/page/n48/mode/1up |magazine=[[Game Informer]] |volume=III |issue=1 |date=January 1994|page=47}}</ref> Ed Semrad of ''[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]'' commented that many Jaguar games gratuitously used all of the controller's phone keypad buttons, making the controls much more difficult than they needed to be.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Review Crew: Syndicate|magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]|issue=69|publisher=Sendai Publishing|date=April 1995|page=38}}</ref> ''GamePro''{{'}}s The Watch Dog remarked: "The controller usually doesn't use the keypad, and for games that use the keypad extensively (''Alien vs. Predator'', ''Doom''), a keypad overlay is used to minimize confusion. But yes, it is a lot of buttons for nuttin'."<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Buyers Beware |magazine=[[GamePro]] |issue=89 |publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]]|date=February 1996|page=14}}</ref> Atari added more action buttons for its Pro Controller, to improve performance in fighting games in particular.<ref name=LOCR>{{cite web|url=http://www.leftoverculturereview.com/2012/04/04/5-reasons-why-the-atari-jaguar-isnt-so-bad/|title=5 Reasons Why the Atari Jaguar Isn't So Bad|author=Bruiser|date=April 4, 2012|website=Leftover Culture Review|publisher=LOCR|access-date=February 1, 2018|archive-date=February 2, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180202193359/http://www.leftoverculturereview.com/2012/04/04/5-reasons-why-the-atari-jaguar-isnt-so-bad/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ataritimes.com/index.php?ArticleIDX=564|title=Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story|last=Clarke|first=Bruce|date=February 18, 2007|website=The Atari Times|publisher=TAT|access-date=February 1, 2018|archive-date=February 2, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180202130731/http://www.ataritimes.com/index.php?ArticleIDX=564|url-status=dead}}</ref>

==Legacy==
Telegames continued to publish games for the Jaguar after it was discontinued, and for a time was the only company to do so.<ref>{{cite magazine | title=Tidbits... | magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] | issue=94 | publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] | date=May 1997 | page=24 | quote=Atari Jaguar game maker Telegames refuses to desert loyal owners of the 64-Bit machine ... and remains the lone third-party publisher. The company has six new games in the works, according to its online site ...}}</ref> On May 14, 1999, Hasbro Interactive announced that it had released all patents to the Jaguar, declaring it an [[open platform]],<ref name="hasbro">{{cite web | url=http://www.atariage.com/Jaguar/archives/HasbroRights.html | title=Hasbro Releases Jaguar Publishing Rights | publisher=Hasbro Interactive | access-date=May 14, 2008 | quote=Beverly, MA (May 14, 1999) – Leading entertainment software publisher, Hasbro Interactive announced today it has released all rights that it may have to the vintage Atari hardware platform, the Jaguar. | archive-date=May 24, 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130524063922/http://www.atariage.com/Jaguar/archives/HasbroRights.html | url-status=live }}</ref> and enabling [[homebrew (video games)|extensive homebrew development]].<ref name="redundant">{{cite web | last = Goss | first = Patrick | title = Redundant gadgets (Atari Jaguar entry) | url=http://tech.uk.msn.com/features/gallery.aspx?cp-documentid=6171299&imageindex=5  | access-date = October 23, 2007| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071011200651/http://tech.uk.msn.com/features/gallery.aspx?cp-documentid=6171299&imageindex=5 | archive-date = October 11, 2007}}</ref> Following the announcement, Songbird Productions joined Telegames in releasing unfinished Jaguar games alongside new games to satisfy the cult following. Hasbro Interactive, along with all the Atari properties, was sold to [[Atari SA|Infogrames]] on January 29, 2001.<ref name="IGNBuyout">{{cite web|url=http://pc.ign.com/news/28701.html|title=Infogrames to Acquire Hasbro Interactive|date=December 6, 2000|website=[[IGN]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20011119190727/http://pc.ign.com/news/28701.html|archive-date=November 19, 2001|url-status=dead|access-date=September 30, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/infogrames-completes-hasbro-interactive-acquisition/1100-2679841/ |title=Infogrames completes Hasbro Interactive acquisition |date=January 29, 2001 |website=GameSpot |access-date=May 20, 2020 |archive-date=June 10, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200610001354/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/infogrames-completes-hasbro-interactive-acquisition/1100-2679841/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In the United Kingdom in 2001, Telegames and retailer [[Game (retailer)|Game]] made a deal to bring the Jaguar to Game's retail outlets. It was initially sold for £29.99 new and software ranged between £9.99 for more common games such as ''[[Doom (1993 video game)|Doom]]'' and ''[[Ruiner Pinball]]'' and £39.99 for rarer releases such as ''[[Defender 2000]]'' and ''[[Checkered Flag (1994 video game)|Checkered Flag]]''. The machine had a presence in the stores until 2007, when remaining consoles were sold off for £9.99 and games were sold for as low as 97p.<ref name="MyAtari14">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.myatari.net/issues/dec2001/news.htm|title=Atari News: Atari Jaguar|magazine=MyAtari|issue=14|date=December 2001|access-date=November 1, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020222182322/http://www.myatari.net/issues/dec2001/news.htm|archive-date=February 22, 2002|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="MyAtari15">{{cite magazine|url=http://myatari.net/issues/jan2002/news.htm|title=News: Atari consoles going cheap!|magazine=MyAtari|issue=15|date=January 2002|access-date=November 1, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020827013502/http://myatari.net/issues/jan2002/news.htm|archive-date=August 27, 2002|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="MyAtari16">{{cite magazine|url=http://myatari.net/issues/feb2002/game.htm|title=Features: GAME, set, match!|magazine=MyAtari|issue=15|date=February 2002|access-date=November 1, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020825170634/http://myatari.net/issues/feb2002/game.htm|archive-date=August 25, 2002|url-status=dead}}</ref>

In 2022, the compilation ''[[Atari 50]]'' was released with a collection of Jaguar games, as one of the first instances of Jaguar software being officially re-released by Atari.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Atari 50: the Anniversary Celebration |url=https://atari.com/products/atari-50th-the-anniversary-celebration |access-date=January 27, 2024 |website=Atari |language=en}}</ref> Due to the unique design of the original Jaguar controller, the games feature reworked control layouts to allow them to work with modern hardware.

===Molds===
In 1997, Steve Mortensen, a developer of dental imaging equipment, purchased the Jaguar cartridge and console molds, including the molds for the CD add-on, from JTS.<ref>{{Cite book |first=Boris |last=Kretzinger |url=http://archive.org/details/clipped-claws |title=Clipped Claws |date=February 22, 2023 |pages=299-300 |accessdate=October 25, 2025}}</ref> With minor modification, they fit its HotRod camera,<ref>{{cite web | title = Atari Jaguar Revived As Dental Camera | date = January 1, 2010 | work = 1UP | url = http://www.1up.com/news/atari-jaguar-revived-dental-camera | access-date = October 24, 2010 | archive-date = July 24, 2012 | archive-url = https://archive.today/20120724070454/http://www.1up.com/news/atari-jaguar-revived-dental-camera | url-status = dead }}</ref> and the cartridge molds were reused to create an optional memory expansion card.<ref>{{cite web | title = HotRod | publisher = Imagin | url = http://www.imaginsystems.com/Graphics/HotRod%20DS-final.pdf | access-date = October 24, 2010 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20101117020347/http://www.imaginsystems.com/Graphics/HotRod%20DS-final.pdf | archive-date = November 17, 2010 | url-status = dead | df = mdy-all }}</ref> In a retrospective, Imagin founder Steve Mortenson praised the design, but admitted that their device came at the time of the dental industry's transition to [[USB]], and apart from a few prototypes, the molds went unused.<ref name="AdamKoralik">{{cite web | url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9APovyGdkhs | title=How the Atari Jaguar Became Dental Equipment (Mini-Doc) - Adam Koralik | website=[[YouTube]] | date=September 20, 2018 | access-date=August 15, 2023 | archive-date=August 15, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230815112441/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9APovyGdkhs | url-status=live }}</ref>

In December 2014, the molds were purchased from Imagin Systems by Mike Kennedy, owner of the [[Kickstarter]] funded ''Retro Videogame Magazine'', to propose a new crowdfunded video game console, the [[Chameleon (video game console)|Retro VGS]],<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.retrovgs.com/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150703182244/http://www.retrovgs.com/|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 3, 2015|title=Home|date=July 3, 2015|access-date=December 27, 2016}}</ref> later rebranded the Coleco Chameleon<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.retrovgs.com/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160114164829/http://www.retrovgs.com/|url-status=dead|archive-date=January 14, 2016|title=Home|date=January 14, 2016|access-date=December 27, 2016}}</ref> with a licensing agreement with [[Coleco]]. The purchase of the molds was far cheaper than designing and manufacturing entirely new molds, and Kennedy described their acquisition as "the entire reason [the Retro VGS] is possible".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.retrovgs.com/media.html |title=Retro VGS #1 |access-date=July 31, 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150729185157/http://www.retrovgs.com/media.html |archive-date=July 29, 2015  }}</ref> However, the project was terminated in March 2016 following criticism of Kennedy<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2016-04-05-coleco-chameleon-boss-i-am-officially-tabling-the-console-venture-for-good|title=Coleco Chameleon boss: "I am officially tabling the console venture for good"|last=Purchese|first=Robert|date=April 5, 2016|website=Eurogamer|language=en-UK|access-date=December 27, 2016|archive-date=December 28, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161228032510/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2016-04-05-coleco-chameleon-boss-i-am-officially-tabling-the-console-venture-for-good|url-status=live}}</ref> and doubts regarding demand for the proposed console. Two "prototypes" were discovered to be fakes and Coleco withdrew from the project.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2016/03/coleco_removes_its_name_from_the_chameleon_console_but_aims_to_produce_new_products_in_the_future|title=Coleco Removes Its Name From The Chameleon Console, But Aims To Produce "New Products" In The Future|date=March 9, 2016|newspaper=Nintendo Life|access-date=December 27, 2016|archive-date=December 28, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161228032323/http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2016/03/coleco_removes_its_name_from_the_chameleon_console_but_aims_to_produce_new_products_in_the_future|url-status=live}}</ref> After the project's termination, the molds were sold to Albert Yarusso, the founder of the [[AtariAge]] website.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://atariage.com/forums/topic/247145-coleco-chameleon-hardware-speculations/?p=3484385|title=Coleco Chameleon .... hardware speculations? - Page 318 - Modern Gaming|newspaper=AtariAge Forums|access-date=December 27, 2016|archive-date=January 18, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240118060133/https://forums.atariage.com/topic/247145-coleco-chameleon-hardware-speculations/page/318/#comment-3484385|url-status=live}}</ref>

==See also==
* [[Contiki]], portable operating system, including a port for the Jaguar with GUI, TCP/IP, and web browser support.

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
{{commons category|Atari Jaguar}}
* [http://st-news.com/issues/st-news-volume-9-issue-2/previews/the-jaguar/ Atari Jaguar review, 1994] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170128233806/http://st-news.com/issues/st-news-volume-9-issue-2/previews/the-jaguar/ |date=January 28, 2017 }}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20070216161427/http://justclaws.atari.org/press.htm Atari Corp. press released related to Jaguar, 1993-1997 (archived)]

{{Atari hardware}}
{{Fifth generation game consoles}}
{{Home video game consoles}}

[[Category:1990s toys]]
[[Category:68k-based game consoles]]
[[Category:Atari consoles|Jaguar duo]]
[[Category:Discontinued video game consoles]]
[[Category:Fifth-generation video game consoles]]
[[Category:Home video game consoles]]
[[Category:Regionless game consoles]]
[[Category:Products and services discontinued in 1996]]
[[Category:Products introduced in 1993]]