Breakout for the Atari 2600 is an arcade-style video game categorized under the 'bat-and-ball' genre. It was initially released by Atari, Inc. in 1978. In this classic game, players maneuver a paddle to bounce a ball against a wall of bricks, aiming to destroy them all without letting the ball fall past the paddle. The gameplay involves a simple concept but requires quick reflexes and strategic thinking as the ball picks up speed and the arrangement of bricks becomes increasingly complex. Breakout's legacy is marked by its influence on the brick-breaking game genre and its enduring popularity among retro gaming enthusiasts.