Microsoft prepares for big Atari E.T. dig with an opening party invitation

Those who know about gaming history  have likely heard the story of the Atari game E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial. Legend has it that the game was so bad that the company buried all copies in New Mexico in an effort to keep it from the public.

Now a crew is going in search of this — a bit like looking for Bigfoot — and Microsoft plans to be present for the event. In fact, it is even planning a documentary through Xbox Entertainment Studios.

To kick off this big event, a party is planned, and you’re invited. Larry Hryb, Xbox Live chief, announces “This weekend, you’re invited to join us in digging into the greatest mystery in videogame history: are there really millions of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial Atari cartridges buried in the New Mexico desert?” Here are the details.

• What’s going on: Prep for  the big dig by playing classic Atari games, courtesy of Gamers Anonymous. Enjoy complementary food and soft drinks, and we’ll be raffling off prizes, including Xbox One games and an Xbox One system.
• Where: Gamestop 516 1st St, Alamogordo, NM 88310 (map)
• When: Friday, April 25 from 7:00pm – 9:00pm
• Please note, the event is free and open to the public.

As for the big dig, that will commence on Saturday morning beginning at 9:30 am, though you are recommended to be there by 8:30. Prizes will be given away to the first 250 people.