■ Atari UK may have closed in October 1974 after barely 18 months in operation, but in 1978, Atari returned, or machine in the UK or Europe back then, chances are it was made in Tipperary. The factory finally closed in 1998 and during its 20-year lifespan also produced cabinets for Namco and Midway, whether in partnership with Atari or when solely owned by those other arcade stalwarts. For more on Atari Ireland, see Tony Temple’s excellent account, including many illuminating photos from the factory floor, at and listen to Kevin Hayes, managing director of Atari Ireland during its heyday, share his memories on episode nine of podcast, co-hosted by your correspondent.
