Welcome to the world of Vectrex, a retro video game console that was released in 1982. Vectrex boasted vector graphics, backlit display, and its bundled-in game Mine Storm, which made it one of the most innovative products of the time. Today, Vectrex is considered a prized possession amongst collectors and retro gamers alike. At the time of release, many video game companies were focused on their own in-house programming but Vectrex was unique because it was a standalone console with its graphics chips pre-installed.
The Vectrex console was introduced to the market by General Consumer Electronics. It quickly gained popularity amongst gamers due to its revolutionary design and graphics. The console was not only a gaming machine but had a built-in set of screen overlays that gave the graphics a more intense look. Additionally, the console came equipped with a standalone joystick – a standout characteristic compared to the competition. Join us as we take a deep dive into the Vectrex console, its history, features, games, and more.
Vectrex Console Overview
The Vectrex console was a revolutionary piece of gaming technology that debuted in 1982. Unlike other consoles of the time, the Vectrex featured a built-in vector display that allowed for sharp, detailed graphics and a unique gaming experience. Let’s take a closer look at the design and technical specifications that made the Vectrex stand out from the crowd, as well as the accessories that enhanced the gaming experience for Vectrex owners.
Design and Technical Specifications
The Vectrex’s console design was sleek and modern, resembling a futuristic piece of technology straight out of a sci-fi movie. Despite its impressive design, the Vectrex’s real standout feature was its 9-inch monochrome display, which utilized vector graphics technology.
Unlike traditional gaming consoles that relied on raster graphics made up of pixels, vector graphics were created using mathematical equations and lines, allowing for sharper and more detailed images. The Vectrex also included a built-in speaker and a cartridge slot for games.
The console’s technical specifications were impressive for its time, boasting a 6809E processor, 1.5 KB of RAM, and 8 KB of ROM. It also featured a built-in joystick and spinner dial, which offered unique control options for games.
Accessories for the Vectrex Console
The Vectrex console also had a variety of accessories that improved the gameplay experience for players. These accessories included:
- The Vectrex light pen, which allowed for accurate drawing and movement in games with drawing mechanics, such as Art Master or Melody Master.
- The 3D imager, which featured a pair of LCD shutter glasses and allowed for stereoscopic 3D effects in games such as 3D Mine Storm.
- The Vectrex controller expansion, which added two additional buttons to the joystick and made gameplay more comfortable and intuitive for players.
- The Vectrex console carrying case, which made it easy for players to bring the console and their favorite games with them on the go.
History of Vectrex Console
The Vectrex console was a unique addition to the video game industry, released in 1982 by General Consumer Electronics. It was the only video game console that featured vector graphics, a type of graphics that used wireframe outlines, instead of the traditional raster graphics that were commonplace at the time. The Vectrex’s innovative feature made it stand out from its contemporaries, contributing to its big impact on the gaming industry.
The Vectrex console faced competition from other console manufacturers. Its high price point made it difficult for consumers to purchase, especially since the game software was pricey and in limited supply. Additionally, the video game crash of 1983, coupled with the saturation of the video game market, meant that the Vectrex console’s lifespan was short-lived. General Consumer Electronics eventually went out of business in 1984, discontinuing the Vectrex console.
Vectrex Console’s Reception and Sales
Upon its release in 1982, the Vectrex console was a novel innovation that had never been seen before. It was a game console that had its monitor, unlike any other console that had come before it, which used television sets. It featured a built-in vector monitor that provided players with a crisp and clear display that was unlike anything they had seen up to that point.
The Vectrex wasn’t without competition, however. The Atari 2600 console had been in the market since 1977 and had already built up a considerable following. There were also various other home consoles available on the market at the time. The Vectrex, however, was unique, featuring its display, which set it apart from all the other consoles.
Ultimately, the Vectrex didn’t perform as well as the industry leaders, primarily because it was quite expensive compared to other consoles on the market at the time. While the Atari 2600 was more affordable, the Vectrex sold for around $200, which was a significant sum of money in 1982.
Despite the high price point, the Vectrex console did receive positive reviews from gamers and critics alike due to its built-in vector monitor and quality graphics. It was also a unique console that had no competition, which cemented the Vectrex console’s place in history as a noteworthy console that challenged the status quo.
Vectrex Console Games
The Vectrex console may have been a niche product, but it had a robust library of games considering it was only on the market for a few years. Some of the most popular games released for the Vectrex console include:
– Mine Storm: This was the game that came with every Vectrex system. It’s a vector-based shoot ’em up that has you piloting a spaceship against alien enemies.
– Armor Attack: In this game, you control a tank that moves along a pathway, blasting away at enemy tanks and other targets. The game’s graphics are vector-based, but it also features a unique 3D mode that utilizes colored overlays.
– Star Castle: This is an incredibly challenging space shooter that required a combination of quick reflexes and strategy to beat. The game’s antagonist is located in the center of the screen and protected by multiple layers of shields that you need to whittle down before you can finally defeat the boss.
– Scramble: An early side-scrolling shooter. Here, you control a spaceship that needs to traverse through a series of tunnels while shooting down enemy ships, bombing ground targets, and avoiding walls and barriers.
The gameplay and mechanics of these games were unique to the Vectrex console. The console’s built-in 9-inch screen and vector graphics created a distinct look and feel that couldn’t be replicated on other consoles. The graphics had a unique style that added to the experience, and the controller had a joystick and buttons that allowed for precise inputs.
The library of Vectrex games may not have been vast, but the games that were released for the console have stood the test of time. They’ve remained popular for over three decades, and the Vectrex console has now become a sought-after collector’s item.
Vectrex Console Review
The Vectrex console was a unique gaming system that included built-in vector graphics and a built-in screen. Fans of retro gaming will appreciate the console’s nostalgic feel and its library of games exclusive to the Vectrex system. While it may not be as well-known as the Atari or the Nintendo systems of its time, the Vectrex console has earned its place in video game history.
Pros of Owning a Vectrex Console
- Unique gaming experience: The Vectrex console’s built-in screen and vector graphics gave it a one-of-a-kind look and feel that sets it apart from other consoles of its time.
- Exclusive game library: The Vectrex console has an impressive and distinct library of games that you can’t find anywhere else.
- Ease of use: With no need for a TV or additional peripherals, playing the Vectrex console is a breeze. Just plug it in and turn it on.
- Nostalgia: For those who grew up playing video games in the 80s, owning a Vectrex console can be a reminder of simpler, more innocent times.
Cons of Owning a Vectrex Console
- Limited game options: With a limited library of games, the Vectrex console may not be the best choice for gamers looking for a wide variety of options.
- Hardware limitations: While its vector graphics and built-in screen were unique at the time, the console’s hardware limitations mean that it can’t compare to modern video game systems in terms of processing power or graphical capability.
- Rarity and cost: As a collector’s item, Vectrex consoles can be hard to find and expensive to purchase, making it more of a luxury item than a practical gaming system.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Vectrex console was a significant milestone in the history of video games. Designed and released in 1982, it was among the earliest home consoles that enabled players to enjoy high-quality vector graphics. Despite its short lifespan, the console managed to leave a lasting impression on the gaming industry and remains a beloved piece of retro gaming nostalgia today.
The Vectrex console boasted a unique design and innovative features, such as its built-in monitor and controller overlays. The console offered an arsenal of unique games, which demonstrated the capabilities of vector graphics and its potential for creating immersive gameplay experiences.
While the Vectrex console may not have achieved the commercial success of some of its competitors, it remains a critical piece of hardware for any video game enthusiast or collector. We recommend our readers to seek out opportunities to experience the console personally to understand its significance fully.
FAQs
1. What were the technical specifications of the Vectrex console?
The Vectrex console had a 1.5 MHz CPU, 1 kB RAM, and 8 kB ROM. It also had a built-in 9-inch monochrome vector display with a resolution of 240×320 pixels.
2. What accessories were available for the Vectrex console?
Some of the accessories available for the Vectrex console included a light pen, 3D imager, and a joystick controller.
3. What were some of the most popular games released for the Vectrex console?
Some of the most popular games released for the Vectrex console include “Armor Attack,” “Scramble,” and “Spike.”
4. How did the Vectrex console perform in terms of sales?
While it did attract a cult following and receive positive reviews, the Vectrex console ultimately sold around 1.5 million units, which was considered a disappointment compared to other consoles on the market at the time.
5. What are some pros and cons of owning a Vectrex console?
Some pros of owning a Vectrex console include its unique vector display and a solid library of classic games. Some cons could include the expense and difficulty of finding working consoles and games, as well as the limited game selection compared to other consoles.
