Vectrex is one of the most inspired video game machines ever produced. Its point
of distinction is the fact that it uses vector "line" graphics (as opposed to raster "pixel" graphics). This is the same type of screen used in such arcade classics as Space Wars, Asteroids, Battlezone and Tempest.
The machine has a 9 x 11 inch black and white screen and comes with a built-in Asteroids clone called Minestorm. The games come with plastic overlays that slide over the screen to cut down on flicker and give some illusion of color.
It uses an 8 bit processor, the 68A09 (6809 with 1.5MHz clock speed), and a popular (at that time) sound chip, General Instruments AY-3-8912, which can produce a wide range of noises. Also included is a 1.5 inch, self-centering,
joystick with 4 buttons on the right. It uses an analog/potentiometer system allowing differing degrees of directional input.
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Source : Vectrex FAQ
NAME
Vectrex
MANUFACTURER
Milton Bradley
ORIGIN
U.S.A.
YEAR
June 1982
END OF PRODUCTION
December 1984
BUILT IN SOFTWARE / GAMES
Mine Storm (built-in the system)
CONTROLLERS
One built-in controller (joystick + 4 buttons). Second controller optional.
Black & white (colors simulated by plastic screen overlays)
SOUND
General Instrument AY-3-8912
SIZE / WEIGHT
9¾ x 11½ x 14½ inches / 15 pounds
I/O PORTS
2 controller connectors
MEDIA
Cartridges
NUMBER OF GAMES
More than 30 games
POWER SUPPLY
Power supply built-in the system
PERIPHERALS
Second controller, light pen, 3D imager
PRICE
$199 (November 1982, USA)
What an amazing system ! Vector graphics is such a different gaming experience, that playing with a Vectrex nowadays is still a lot of fun. The Vectrex is surely one of gems of my collection... If you have never played it, you are seriously missing something, and don't rely on its emulation as the feeling is completely different.
