Topics

46

Classic Video Games / My 8-Bits: Atari 400/800

« on: June 28, 2014, 09:09:50 pm »

This will be a forum series where I'll talk about the history and my experience with the gaming consoles I own and today I will be entering the first of the Game Console Computers, The Atari 400/800.

Atari 400/800



History:
In 1979 Atari entered the home PC market with its Atari 400 and 800 series. An 8-Bit computer that was also a game console.
 
How did it do?
Extremely well, over 2 million systems sold over in the twelve plus years it was out. It changed a lot during those twelve years. The system was finally discontinued in 1992. It was marketed as a Computer that also played games, so kids wanted one to play games and adults saw it as a computer and not just a "toy".

Graphics:
This is where the Atari 5200 was born. The games are exactly the same as on the 5200 that was released much later. 

Is this system still fun to play?
Yes, many of the classics can be found on this console.
 
What games are worth playing?
Pac-Man, Ms. Pac-Man, Dig Dug, Donkey Kong, Donkey Kong Jr. (which was never released on 5200) Frogger, Galaxian, Jungle Hunt, Centipede, Millipede, Miner 2049er, Pengo, Pitfall 2, Qix, Robotron 2084, River Raid, Megamania, Space Invaders, Missile Command, Asteroids just to name a few. Ya all of these can be found on Atari 2600 but they look and play so much better on the 400/800. I wish I could recommend disc and Tape games but I have issues getting these to work.

How many versions are there?
there's been several models with upgrades over the years. 400, 800, 1200XL, 600XL, 800XL, 65XE, 130XE and one other but it's another console all together so I'll talk about that one another day.

What do I need to know if I start collecting this system?
Now I'm not going over how these are as computers, how they are to program and their computing power, I'm looking at these as a gaming console. These computer consoles hold up pretty well over time for the most part. Not as a Computer, but as a gaming console. The one thing I learned is the door on the 400/800 consoles, the games will not play with the door open. So if the latch that holds the door closed is worn or broken it wont play any cartridges, later consoles removed the door. You can hook up a tape deck or disc drive, but these don't age well, discs warp easy and most are not used in decades and might have issues playing. You can even play copied tapes/discs. I personally avoid discs and tapes and only pick them up if dirt cheap. You'll also need to learn the commands to run these games. The Joystick is a standard Atari 2600 so any one you find will work. The keyboard on the 400 is a touch pad style, sometime these keys become hard to press as it ages making you press a button over and over til it responds. The 800 has the better keyboard and more memory but is a monster in size and weight. Atari 400/800 consoles you can find cheap, if you find one. Some Ebay auctions ask stupid prices but trust me, these pop up at gaming stores, flea markets and other game selling events for under $40. Most games are dirt cheap, but like most consoles there are a few that are rare and will cost you higher dollars.
 
My Experience with the Console
The first memory of this console is when I was really young I built an Atari 2600 & 400 out of nothing but paper and took it to school. I didn't end up getting a 400 til much late in life. I always avoided it thinking is was a computer and not a gaming console. But it is a console, you can hook the 400 & 800 models to any TV, they work great on my 1080p HDTV. I don't have the 1200XL, 600XL, 800XL, 65XE or 130XE models so I don't know how they compare. I picked up an 800 just last year from a game convention for $15 and it came with a ton of extras. It's always funny getting a bunch of home office software with programing books and accessories, I honestly never know what to do with most of it and box it up. I just like using it as a gaming console. There's many exclusive games for this system, Some good other bad. I tried the E.T. for the 400/800 and it's nothing like the 2600 version, in fact IT'S WORSE! I personally just got so frustrated and said I'm not playing this. lol 

Final Thoughts
If your looking for an alternative to the Atari 5200, this is not a bad way to go. 90% of the games released on the 5200 are on this system, plus several never released on the 5200 and you don't have to deal with those crappy joysticks. And if you want to really get nerdy, try and use it as a computer. I have a modem for my 800, wonder if I can get online and get on Vgcollect. lol

Let me know what you think, I'm planning on continuing the reviews in a somewhat order of when they came out.

Leave reply's on your experience with the Atari 400/800 or other Atari computers. I would love to hear them. 

By the Numbers: At the time of this article, 18 own a 400, 10 own an 800, 1 owns a 1200XL, 3 own a 600XL, 18 own an 800XL, 2 own the 65XE and 3 own the 130XE.

Past Reviews:
Mattel Intellivision
Magnavox Odyssey 2
Interton VC 4000
APF MP1000
Bally Astrocade
Atari 2600
Coleco Telstar Arcade
RCA Studio II
Fairchild Channel F
PC-50X
Pong Consoles
Magnavox Odyssey

47

Classic Video Games / My 8-Bits: Mattel Intellivision

« on: June 22, 2014, 02:17:54 pm »

This will be a forum series where I'll talk about the history and my experience with the gaming consoles I own and today I'm looking at a classic, the Intellivision.

Mattel Intellivision



History:
In 1979 Mattel limited released the Intellivision (The name is short for Intelligent Television) then released the system across North America in 1980. Then released the rest of the world in 1982.
 
How did it do?
Extremely well, with over 3 million systems sold.

Graphics:
The first 16bit console, with graphics that step up from it's competitors, fluid animation that made many of their games stand out for it's time. 

Is this system still fun to play?
Yes, there's still a fan base for the Intellivision. The circular pad and tiny side buttons take getting used to and if your missing the overlays some of the games are a pain to play. 
 
What games are worth playing?
While Intellivision is known for its great Sport games in its time and while many of these games are still playable, they are not the games I love to play. My favorites where Burgertime, Diner, Astrosmash, Night Stalker, Tron Deadly Discs, Thin Ice, Thunder Castle, Worm Whomper & Bump & Jump.

How many versions are there?
Four major versions in the US, and several color and name variations overseas. The main four are the classic gold and wood-grain model, a Sears exclusive model called the Super Video Arcade. Later Mattel replaced it with the smaller Intellivision II, then the INTV system III (which was just a black and silver version of the model 1)

What do I need to know if I start collecting this system?
The systems for the most part are not hard to come by, the classic gold and wood-grain model is the most common. The model 1, Sears and INTV III versions of the console has hardwired controllers. Like every other console I talk about with hardwired controllers, if one has issues it makes them difficult to replace. Model 1's can be difficult to find in 100% working order, they seem to break down more then the model II. Games are fairly easy to come by and most of them are pretty cheap. But some of the last games released can be costly. There was also many expansions for the Intellivision, The Intellivoice, Computer and keyboard, and even an Atari 2600 converter.
 
My Experience with the Console
I had an Intellivision back in the late 80's, I believe it was the first console I bought from a garage sale. The cords on this system are short so expect to have the system close to you. For some reason I can't get this system to run right on my 1080p TV, the screen flips bad. But it works fine on a 720p. I was never a fan of the circular pad controller with its tiny side buttons on the side and I always found the sound annoying on many games. Later I got the Intellivision II, it's smaller and has an external power supply. The model II is a more reliable console then the model I, but for some reason there's a few games that will not play on the model II, This to wont work on a 1080p TV ether (at least not on mine) Also the model II will not work with the Intellivoice.
While I'm more of an Atari fan, the Intellivision does have some games I prefer playing on it.

Final Thoughts
The intellivision is a great classic console to have in your collection, If you can find a working one at a good price I highly recommend picking it up and giving it a try.

Let me know what you think, I'm planning on continuing the reviews in a somewhat order of when they came out. Sorry there was no review last week, but it was fathers day and I was busy spending a day with my Dad.

Leave reply's on your experience with the Intellivision. I would love to hear them. 

By the Numbers: 103 own model I, 40 have a Model II, 11 own a Model III and 14 own the Sears SVA.

Past Reviews:
Magnavox Odyssey 2
Interton VC 4000
APF MP1000
Bally Astrocade
Atari 2600
Coleco Telstar Arcade
RCA Studio II
Fairchild Channel F
PC-50X
Pong Consoles
Magnavox Odyssey

48

Classic Video Games / My 8-Bits: Magnavox Odyssey 2

« on: June 08, 2014, 01:02:04 pm »

This will be a forum series where I'll talk about the history and my experience with the gaming consoles I own and today I'm going to review the Magnavox Odyssey Squared, I mean the Magnavox Odyssey 2. 

Magnavox Odyssey 2



History:
In 1978 Magnavox released an improved model of the Odyssey to go up against Atari, The Odyssey 2. Overseas the system was released under the Phillips, Ether as the Odyssey or Videopac.
 
How did it do?
Vary well, selling over 2 million systems and was made until early 1984.

Graphics:
A step back from Atari, really blocky graphics but the games where clearer and sharper due to Atari's Screen flicker.

Is this system still fun to play?
Yes, It's games are outdated and simplistic but it will still give you some fun and you'll get a laugh if you have the Voice hooked up. Playing KC Krazy Chase the Voice cheers you on. lol
 
What games are worth playing?
Games like KC Munchkin, KC Krazy Chase, Pickaxe Pete and Demon Attack are a few I enjoyed.

How many versions are there?
Two in the states, they look the same but later models had silver removable controllers instead of the hardwired black ones. But overseas there was several versions, even ones that had a built in monitor.

What do I need to know if I start collecting this system?
These systems hold up pretty well, The only issue to watch out for is the hardwired controllers. The cords are real thin and could be damaged easy. The systems run pretty cheap for the most part, you can pick up a console (even with games) for around $30. The Removable controllers model is tougher to find. Games for this system are cheap too for the most part, most you can pick up under $5 but there are a few rare ones that could cost you as high as $50 plus. But getting into Import consoles is a whole other monster, many versions are extremely rare and could cost you some serious cash.
 
My Experience with the Console
The Odyssey 2 was my second gaming console I ever owned. It was also the first console I ever lost. My Dad bought me and my brothers an Odyssey 2 and while it was no Atari I still loved it. But one day it stopped working, My mom gave it to a friend who thought he could fix it then not long after that my family moved and it was left behind. Later in life when I was bicycling to garage sales I picked up a new one. And have been collecting for it ever sense. I love playing around with the Voice, making say the silliest things, friends love making it say immature things, it's funny how it says “adult” words. lol   

Final Thoughts
The Odyssey 2 is a classic in every way, if you want to play some really old school games that are primitive but still playable I recommend an Odyssey 2. They are cheap to collect and still has some enjoyment value.
 
Let me know what you think, I'm planning on continuing the reviews in a somewhat order of when they came out. Sorry reviews been going up late, been really busy on Saturdays lately.

Leave reply's on your experience with the Odyssey 2. I would love to hear them. 
Next week we look at what is technically the first 16bit game console.

By the Numbers: 59 people own an Odyssey 2 on Vgcollect, and 5 own Import versions.

Past Reviews:
Interton VC 4000
APF MP1000
Bally Astrocade
Atari 2600
Coleco Telstar Arcade
RCA Studio II
Fairchild Channel F
PC-50X
Pong Consoles
Magnavox Odyssey

49

Classic Video Games / My 8-Bits: Interton VC 4000

« on: June 01, 2014, 08:23:48 pm »

This will be a forum series where I'll talk about the history and my experience with the gaming consoles I own and this time I'm looking at a console that was mainly released in Germany, the Interton VC 4000.

Interton VC 4000



History:
In 1978, Interton released the Electronic VC 4000 Video Computer that was only released in Germany, they also allowed other companies to release their system under different names across Europe. Radofin also released this console as the 1292 Advanced Programmable Video System (APVS) and many other names around Europe as early as 1976. Thou the Radofin was released first, Interton claims to have created the system in 1974 but was late to release it. 
 
How did it do?
Fairly well in Germany, it was made til 1983.

Graphics:
Similar to Atari, most games feel like clones of popular games of it's time.

Is this system still fun to play?
It can be, but again most of the games are similar to an Atari 2600 game.
 
What games are worth playing?
The VC 4000 only released 37 games, the ones I got a kick out of playing are Invaders and Monster Man.

How many versions are there?
There's two style of models; the VC4000 style and the APVS styles. The VC4000 had about 8 different models that I could find and the APVS style had about 13. Basically the 2 styles play the same but the carts are different sizes.

What do I need to know if I start collecting this system?
Well if you don't live in a European country finding this console will be a challenge. But if you do import one, then you'll need a compatible PAL television. You can't use a converter because it only uses RF output. I tried a converter once and the frame rate was so bad it wasn't playable. If anyone reading this has found a good PAL to NTSC RF converter let me know. You'll also need a 220 volt converter if you live in the states. The the controller uses an analog stick and and a twelve button keypad with two red fire buttons look and feels almost like an Atari 5200 controller, but at least the 5200 was numbered.
The RF cord is hardwired into the console and thank god the controllers and power supply is not. But for some reason the controllers are hardwired into the APVS model I have.
The systems them selves usually run under $100 and most games are pretty cheap. Most of the cost will be shipping it from European countries.
   
My Experience with the Console
I got a good deal from a lady in Germany for the VC4000, came with 12 of the 37 games and many are uncommon. One of the controllers cord is white instead of black making me thing the controller was replaced, but at least it works. Hooking this thing up is the only problem I had. I own a multi-region CRT TV I picked up from a garage sale. Some days I can get it to run with a poor picture, other days it plays but the screen is so full of static its hard to play. I tried a trick I read about by opening the console up and adjusting a knob inside but It doesn't seem to help for me. I might need a more compatible PAL TV or the RF cord has issues. Then I got the APVS style of the VC4000 called the Acetronic MPU 1000, It plays better then the VC4000 but still has a poor picture and static sound. There's a sound adjustment knob on both consoles but It doesn't seem to do anything. The controller takes a lot of getting used to, imagine going from left to right but the ship your playing wont move til the stick it at the full opposite direction.

Final Thoughts
Unless you live in Europe and find one cheap, this is a collectors only console. Buying a PAL TV and a 220 volt converter only adds to the cost of playing this system. The games are nothing you cant play on an Atari 2600, its a console only for those who are crazy enough to want every gaming console in history. (like me) lol

Let me know what you think, I'm planning on continuing the reviews in a somewhat order of when they came out, kinda makes you see the evolution. I'll try and have one up every weekend.   

Leave reply's on your experience with the VC 4000, Maybe your from Europe and have seen this console. I would love to hear them.     
Next week we're coming back to the states to look at the first console to give Atari a run for it's money.

By the Numbers: Only 5 people own this console on Vgcollect and two of them are owned by me. 

Past Reviews:
APF MP1000
Bally Astrocade
Atari 2600
Coleco Telstar Arcade
RCA Studio II
Fairchild Channel F
PC-50X
Pong Consoles
Magnavox Odyssey

50

Classic Video Games / My 8-Bits: APF MP-1000

« on: May 24, 2014, 04:41:20 pm »

This will be a forum series where I'll talk about the history and my experience with the gaming consoles I own and this time I'm looking at a really obscure console, the APF MP-1000.

APF MP-1000



History:
APF wasn't new to making video games, they like Atari, Coleco and Magnavox made Pong consoles first then tried to make a changeable cartridge console. So in 1978 the MP-1000 was released. They also tried to make the system compete with PC's with a computer expansion module. 

How did it do?
Terrible, It was a total failure. I really cant find a lot of info on this console. Only 12 games and the computer module was ever released.   

Graphics:
Primitive even by late 70s. Games looked more like the RCA Studio. Only had an eight color palate and most where ugly compared to Atari or the Astrocade.

Is this system still fun to play?
No, all the games are basic 70s games, nothing stands out worth playing. Space Destroyers is a Space Invaders clone, but you might as well play it on Atari. Plus the joysticks are small and uncomfortable to use. Who puts the fire button on the back of the joystick.
 
What games are worth playing?
With games like Backgammon, Baseball, Blackjack, Bowling, Boxing, Brickdown, Casino, Catena, Hangman, Pinball, Rocket Patrol, Space Destroyers and UFO you tell me? lol 
 
How many versions are there?
Just One.

What do I need to know if I start collecting this system?
Good luck finding one in good shape that works for one. The joysticks are very cheap plastic feeling and will break easy. The controllers are hardwired into the console making replacing difficult. The computer expansion module is so rare that I've personally only seen it in videos and pictures. The system has one game built into it called Rocket Patrol so even if you can't find any games for it, there's at least one built into the console. A working MP1000 isn't cheap, most sell as high as $200-$300. Finding one of these in the wild would be impressive.
   
My Experience with the Console
I bought mine offline from a collector who kept it in great shape, but I had a hell of a time trying to play it. It won't work on any of the HDTV's I have and I couldn't get it to work on any of the newer CRT color TVs I own ether, at first I thought “great it doesn't work” but then I hooked it up to an old B&W from the 70s I have and it played great. Finicky little snot of a game console. Trying to play it is another thing. The joysticks feel so fragile that I feel like its going to break in my hands. No wonder these things are hard to find working. Even the reset button on the console feels cheap and will break if I look at it funny. I have yet to plug this console in again after the first testing. The game carts look like ripoffs of the Atari 2600, same size and feel. The carts are made better then the console. 

Final Thoughts
This is another one of those consoles that only die hard collectors will want to hunt down. But if you are lucky enough to find one in the wild, it is a nice rare piece of gaming history you might want to grab.

Let me know what you think, I'm planning on continuing the reviews in a somewhat order of when they came out, kinda makes you see the evolution. I'll try and have one up every weekend.   

Leave reply's on your experience with the APF MP-1000, Somehow I doubt you've played this obscure console but if you have I would love to hear it.     
Next week I'll review a console that was never released in the States.

By the Numbers: Only 3 people own this console on Vgcollect. What a shock. 

Past Reviews:
Bally Astrocade
Atari 2600
Coleco Telstar Arcade
RCA Studio II
Fairchild Channel F
PC-50X
Pong Consoles
Magnavox Odyssey

51

Classic Video Games / My 8-Bits: Bally Astrocade

« on: May 17, 2014, 10:08:58 pm »

This will be a forum series where I'll talk about the history and my experience with the gaming consoles I own and this time I'm reviewing the Bally Astrocade.

Bally Astrocade



History:
In 1977 Bally entered the home console market with the Bally Home Library Computer, it was only available through mail order and didn't actually ship to costumers til early 1978. Then released it as the Bally Professional Arcade, by 1981 Montgomery Ward re-released the console as the Bally Computer System the changed it again in 1982 to what most people know it as the Bally Astrocade.

How did it do?
Poor, The system went through so many changes it never took off. The system was discontinued by 1985. With limited games, very little third party support it never had a chance. It didn't help the system was only sold by Montgomery Wards after 1981.

Graphics:
The systems graphics where a little better then the Atari 2600, but really never had anything to show it off.

Is this system still fun to play?
It can be, most are clones of classic Atari games.
 
What games are worth playing?
Clowns & Brickyard (Circus Atari), Space Invaders, The Incredible Wizard (Wizard of Wor) Muncher (Pac-Man) & Sneaky Snake (Centipede). Like I said the games are fun to play but there's nothing you cant play on Atari 2600.
 
How many versions are there?
Four, Most are just different badges of the names with different button colors, Arcade, Computer System, the ultra rare Home Library Computer and the rare white version of the console.

What do I need to know if I start collecting this system?
While finding a console in the wild would be a feat, not impossible, but a feat. Online the consoles can fetch $150 - $600 depending on model and condition. The game carts look like small tape cassettes (first 8-tracks now cassettes) and I notice many have terrible glue bleeding. Finding a 100% working system can be difficult too. Especially it's weird fragile controllers. Most might be missing the top plastic cover. Unlike the Channel F the controllers are not hardwired into the console but the AC Adapter is.
   
My Experience with the Console
my first console I bought off a guy online for about $80 some years ago, it came with 12 games and everything worked great. It was a Computer System Model. Then just last year I found an Arcade model with 23 games, the Basic Computer accessory and 6 controllers for $130. (one of the games alone sells for over $200) The controllers remind me a lot of the Channel F, but this time a stick with a knob on top with a fire trigger. They really feel small and fragile. I honestly don't play this console a lot just due to lack of original games and I feel I could break it easy. I love how you can store the games inside the console itself. All the games I have are stored inside the two consoles I own.

Final Thoughts
This is like the Channel F, Great piece for collectors who love the "wood age" but kinda pointless for the casual collector / gamer.
But if you see one under $100 and its in excellent shape I wouldn't hesitate in picking it up.

Let me know what you think, I'm planning on continuing the reviews in a somewhat order of when they came out, kinda makes you see the evolution. I'll try and have one up every weekend.   

Leave reply's on your experience with the Bally Astrocade, I would love to hear them.     
Next week a really obscure console.

By the Numbers: 17 people own this console, but no one has a Home Library Computer or White models.

Past Reviews:
Atari 2600
Coleco Telstar Arcade
RCA Studio II
Fairchild Channel F
PC-50X
Pong Consoles
Magnavox Odyssey

52

Modern Video Games / Another Gamestop One Piece exclusive game.

« on: May 15, 2014, 06:02:22 pm »

Gamestop is doing it again with another exclusive One Piece game, This time for the Vita.
One Piece Unlimited World Red is being released on PS3, 3DS and Vita but only the Vita Version is exclusive. (that I know off)
If anyone else recall the Wii and 3DS exclusive One Piece games came out and where gone quick making the game go up in value.
Thought I'd give you all a heads up to reserve your copy of the Vita version in case this game too become scarce.

53

Classic Video Games / My 8-Bits: Atari 2600

« on: May 10, 2014, 03:54:02 pm »

This will be a forum series where I'll talk about the history and my experience with the gaming consoles I own and this time I'm reviewing a system that most of you should have played at least once in your life time, The Atari 2600 (VCS).   

Atari 2600


Sears 6-Switch Heavy (with box) and Sears 6-Switch Light


Atari 6-Switch Light and Atari 4-Switch (with box)


Sears 4-Switch (my first game console) and Atari 2600 "Darth Vader" with box.


Coleco Gemini, Sears Video Arcade II and Atari 2600 "Junior"

History:
Released on September 1977,  The system was originally named the Atari VCS (Video Computer System) Selling for $199 and only had eight games at launch. Later the system was blamed for the video game crash of 1983 when the system was flooding the market with crappy games.

How did it do?
Extremely well, At launch the system did okay, but when Atari released Space Invaders the system was a huge success. The system wasn't officially discontinued til 1992. Over 30 million systems where sold in that time.

Graphics:
Very simple graphics, but unlike every other consoles out at this time it blew away the competition with it's 128 color palette. Sound that came from the TV not just bleeps and bloops from the console. 

Is this system still fun to play?
Yes, while the system is outdated by most, it still has a charm and great games that are worth playing even today. There even people still making new games for the 2600 and pushes what anyone thought the system was capable of.
 
What games are worth playing?
Where to start, Space Invaders, Asteroids, Defender, Defender II (also known as Stargate) Missile Command, Berzerk, Pitfall II, HERO, Dig Dug, Solaris, Frogger, Jr. Pac-Man, Ka-Boom, Keystone Kapers, Megamania, River Raid 1&2, Seaquest, Tapper, and these are just the ones I remember off the top of my head. Also I highly recommend checking out some of the homebrews. Like Halo 2600, Juno First or Pac-Man 4K. (makes the Pac-man that was released look like barf)

How many versions are there?
About twelve main models, 6-switch Heavy, Sears 6-switch Heavy, 6-switch light, Sears 6-switch light, 4-switch light, Sears 4-switch light, the all black model known as the Darth Vader, short rainbow Junior, long rainbow Junior, Sears Video Arcade II, Coleco Gemini and the ultra rare Columbia Home Arcade. There's also a Japanese model known as the 2800. (I refuse to count the Atari Flashbacks) lol

What do I need to know if I start collecting this system?
This system is easy to come by, only versions that are rare are the Heavy models and the Columbia Home Arcade. The Gemini and Sears Video Arcade II are pretty uncommon too. You can pick up a system for about $20-$40 on average. And games can be under a dollar to the most expensive in video game history. The system released close to 400 games and there's many variations of the game carts themselves. So know what your looking for, I'd tell any collector buy the common / good games cheap then slowly expand to find the harder to find games. The systems them selves are pretty durable but the switch consoles can have issues with their switches becoming loose and not working properly so if you find one in the wild test all the front switches if any of them don't feel right it might have issues.     

My Experience with the Console
This was the first Game Console I ever owned. My grandfather Bought me a Sears 4-Switch when I was about 7 years old. And I still have it to this day. I've had several Atari's over the years and I'm still missing the 6-Switch Heavy and of course the ultra rare Columbia model. I always had a soft spot for the Atari 2600, when I got old enough I used to ride my bike hitting garage sales hunting for games for it, and I picked up many rare games that at the time I had no idea that they where anything special. I love the Atari 2600 and still play it to this day. It's a console I recommend everyone play at least once in their life time. My only complaint of the console is the joysticks can feel a little stiff.

Final Thoughts
This is a console that every video game collector should have in their collection. You don't need the rarest model or spend a ton of money hunting the rarest games, most of the best games are pretty common and will cost you a buck.

Let me know what you think, I'm planning on continuing the reviews in a somewhat order of when they came out, kinda makes you see the evolution. I'll try and have one up every weekend.   

Leave reply's on your experience with the Atari 2600, I would love to hear them.     
I know this is one console that some of you have to have played at least once.

By the Numbers: over 400 Atari 2600's of various models are listed in peoples collections on Vgcollect.

Past Reviews:
Coleco Telstar Arcade
RCA Studio II
Fairchild Channel F
PC-50X
Pong Consoles
Magnavox Odyssey

54

Classic Video Games / My 8-Bits: Coleco Telstar Arcade

« on: May 04, 2014, 04:58:43 pm »

This will be a forum series where I'll talk about the history and my experience with the gaming consoles I own and this time I'm reviewing a system that I had my doubts if I should include it with the Pong Consoles or give it it's own review. But it's so weird and has it's own library of games (thou small) it makes it it's own console. I give you the Coleco Telstar Arcade.   

Coleco Telstar Arcade



History:
Released in 1977, It was a Pong console but also a driving and light gun game in a weird triangle shaped console. Cart 2 came with a set of paddles to play 4-players and carts 3 & 4 where mail order.

How did it do?
Okay for a time when Pong consoles where on the way out, but it wasn't out for very long.

Graphics:
Pong style Graphics, it has four colors black, white, red and green. 

Is this system still fun to play?
More interesting then fun. One side is pong sport games, turn it around and race a car turn it again to shoot a light stick man on the screen. The game carts are weird looking too, a triangle that pops in the top.
 
What games are worth playing?
If you like the old school pong and 70s style games this will offer not much new.

How many versions are there?
Just One.

What do I need to know if I start collecting this system?
Finding one that works would be a good start. Also the system will not work at all with out a game cart. Another issue is you may have to adjust the consoles vertical hold located inside the system itself for it to work on newer televisions. Other then that it has the usual Pong problems with jittery controls and many may be missing the steering wheel or light gun. The Light Gun is made of light cheap plastic and often breaks real easy. The only other issue I've seen is the carts don't connect well and may cut you from your game, the latch that holds the game down wears over use and makes the cart loose. The system sells for about $50+ and carts 2, 3 and 4 can sell for more then the console itself.

My Experience with the Console
I had one of these way back when I was a Kid, a neighbor gave it to my mom and she gave it to us kids. We tried using it but we couldn't figure out why it didn't work so we trashed it. Looking back I think it was just missing the game cart. (lol) I got one CIB last year and got two games with it. When I first hooked it up the screen was horrible and at first I thought the system was broken then discovered the trick about opening it up and adjusting the vertical hold. The system is kinda cheap feeling, very light plastic the light gun is crappy, you can pretty much point it at your head and it will act like you hit the target. It's the goofy looking console that gets peoples attention in ones collection.

Final Thoughts
This is for the Pong console collector. While its barely a stand alone game console, it does has its unique design that makes it stand out from the rest. But the casual collector or gamer should pass. There's cheaper ways to play Pong.

Let me know what you think, should I continue with more reviews and what console would you like me to do next? I may pick one you guys pick or continue doing them in a somewhat order of how they came out. I don't know yet how often I'll have the time to write one of these but I'll have one up as often as I can.   

Leave reply's on your experience with the Telstar Arcade, I still would love to hear them.     
So far not many of you guys have played the consoles I've reviewed but next week that will change.

By the Numbers: Only 1 other person on Vgcollect owns this console.

Past Reviews:
RCA Studio II
Fairchild Channel F
PC-50X
Pong Consoles
Magnavox Odyssey

55

Classic Video Games / My 8-Bits: RCA Studio II

« on: April 26, 2014, 03:19:42 am »

Well it's the weekend and time for another My 8-Bits.
This will be a forum series where I'll talk about the history and my experience with the gaming consoles I own and this time I'm reviewing a piece of #%@!*!! garbage... AKA the RCA Studio II.   

RCA Studio II



History:
Released in early 1977, RCA decided to enter the video game market with the Studio II. (I guess the Studio I was so bad it was never released.) lol

How did it do?
Horrible, It did so bad RCA had major layoffs from the losses of this thing. It was Discontinued by 1979. (surprised it lasted that long)

Graphics:
Black and White only, playing pong style graphics. This system was outdated the second it hit store shelves. The games look and play terrible. All the sound comes out of the system and sounds horrible.

Is this system still fun to play?
NO, I'd rather play Pong or Original Odyssey. Playing a game is confusing and boring. The Controllers are a 10 key pad built into the console. Just figuring out how a game works in a pain.

What games are worth playing?
Nothing, No games are worth playing on the Studio II. There was only 15 games ever released and five of them where built into the console.

How many versions are there?
There can be only ONE!

What do I need to know if I start collecting this system?
Know your wasting your money? Okay first of all the system feels broken the second you try to use it. Many consoles have buttons that wont work and if you find this console missing the RF switch it it worthless to try and play. Much like the original Atari 5200's the Adapter plugs into the RF box. (oooo sparks and a fire hazard. Yay!!) These consoles are not easy to find.

My Experience with the Console
The first time I bought this system was from a guy off ebay, he contacted me that his store caught on fire and the system was destroyed. Hmm... wonder if the system caught on fire after he tested it. (lol)
So then I found another and it took me forever to even get this stupid thing to play a damn game. It will not play on my 1080p HDTV, but does work on my 720p HDTV then I had to read manuals and look online just to figure out how to start and play a game. I know there's instructions on the cart but trust me it's not much help. Like the Odyssey, the game starts when you put a cart in then you have to press a button sequence on the keypad to start the game. After about ten minutes this system became real boring and placed on my shelf and I honestly never had any interest to play it again.

Final Thoughts
This console is only worth buying if your a “must own all consoles” collector. The system is ugly, the controls are beyond terrible and the games look and play like crap. If you insist on hunting this console down just don't pay more then $50 CIB, it is not for someone who want to play games on, it's only for the die hard collector who wants to have people see it and say “Hey, what the heck is that ugly thing on your shelf?” and you want to hook it up for them and torture them.

Let me know what you think, should I continue with more reviews and what console would you like me to do next? I may pick one you guys pick or continue doing them in a somewhat order of how they came out. I don't know yet how often I'll have the time to write one of these but so far I've had one up every weekend, going to try and keep it up.   

Leave reply's on your experience with the RCA Studio II, I know it's embarrassing but I still would love to hear them.  Also do you know of any game console that's uglier then the Studio II?    

By the numbers: On Vgcollect only 3 unlucky souls own this console. (including me) lol

Past Reviews:
Fairchild Channel F
PC-50X
Pong Consoles
Magnavox Odyssey

56

Classic Video Games / My 8-Bits: Fairchild Channel F

« on: April 19, 2014, 03:49:55 am »

This will be a forum series where I'll talk about the history and my experience with the gaming consoles I own and this time I'm reviewing an 8-Track player... oh wait it's the Fairchild Channel F.   

Fairchild Channel F



History:
Time to enter Generation two of gaming consoles.
Released in 1976 it was the first to have programmable cartridges. It was a major leap forward in video games.  Fairchild released 20 games before Zicon bought the system and released the Channel F II in 1979 and released 6 more games.
 
How did it do?
Not well, with only 250,000 sold and limited games the system was pretty much done by the 80s.

Graphics:
For it's time it was a huge leap forward with eight pallet color graphics, while none of the original releases really hold up today, most being simple novelty games. Games have no sound, all the sound effect come from the console.

Is this system still fun to play?
It's more of an oddity then fun. The controllers are the most unusual controllers ever seen on a game system. Most games can be confusing to play at first just because you have to learn how this console operates.

What games are worth playing?
The best games I've seen are Alien Invasion, Galactic Space Wars  & a Pac-Man homebrew three of the hardest games to find today.

How many versions are there?
Two, The second model is slightly smaller and lighter.

What do I need to know if I start collecting this system?
Well first thing is buyer beware, seems like most of the model 1 consoles have issues. If you find a console at a garage sale or pretty much anywhere. Let the system sit for at least an hour before plugging it in, let the console get to room temperature. Why you may ask? Because many people will store this away in a hot attic or cold basement then pull it out plug it in and blow a chip inside the console. Then the system wont stay on for more then five minutes. This is why many on Ebay have this issue.  I'm not sure if this is an issue with the model 2's but I'd rather be safe then sorry and do the same thing. The other major problem with this console is that the controllers break easy and they are hardwired into the console making it difficult to replace, The Adapter is also hardwired making this an issue if damaged. Also expect to find many of the model 1's to be missing the plastic top.

My Experience with the Console
The first Channel F I owned had the blown chip. I was able to play it for five minutes then the system would shut down. Then several months later a local game store called me telling me someone brought one in but they didn't want it so they got his phone number and gave it to me. So I called the guy and he came over to my house and I told him I'd buy it for $40 if it worked. But he had to wait an hour with me before I'd test it. (I told him about the chip) He was fine with that and we played video games while waiting. (lol) Then after an hour I hooked it up and we ended up playing the Channel F for a while. (lol) At this point I was satisfied and paid the $40 and we both had a good time. Later I picked up a CIB Model 2 in perfect shape and again I did the same with this one wait well over an hour before testing it.
I always loved how the carts look like eight track tapes and even slide into the console like an eight track. I've even had people see it and ask is that an eight track player? (lol)

Final Thoughts
If you love 70s gaming or love to own a piece of gaming history the Channel F is a cool system to own. But for the casual collector/gamer there really isn't anything on this console really worth playing. It's a fun novelty today. But if you love those wood grain finish consoles then it's a must have.   

Let me know what you think, should I continue with more reviews and what console would you like me to do next? I may pick one you guys pick or I might just do it in a somewhat order of how they came out. I don't know yet how often I'll have the time to write one of these but I'll have one up as often as I can.   

Leave reply's on your experience with the Channel F with finding, collecting and playing games. I'd love to hear them.     

By the numbers: on Vgcollect, 15 people own a model 1 while only 5 own a model 2.

Past Reviews:
PC-50X
Pong Consoles
Magnavox Odyssey

57

Classic Video Games / My 8-Bits: PC-50X Consoles

« on: April 13, 2014, 05:28:01 pm »

This will be a forum series where I'll talk about the history and my experience with the gaming consoles I own and this time I'm reviewing a really obscure series of consoles best known as the PC-50X. (The X stands for Versions 1-8)

PC-50X Consoles



History:
I know what you thinking, What the hell is a PC-50X? Well back when Pong consoles where expensive Many companies in Europe and Australia came out with a series of “programmable game consoles” (and I use that term lightly) that where cheaper starting in 1975. These went under several different names. Names like, “Audio Sonic Telesports IV”, “Bodenfund Programmable Video Game”, and the one I happen to own the “Lark Programmable TV Game System”. These consoles where all the same just different outer shells. they all had an analog style joy stick and most all where packed with one or two games. Tennis Sports and or Auto Racing. The player could push buttons on the console to change the way the game played. As far as I can find, there where eight games released on these consoles. Supersports, Road Race, Motor Cycle, Tank Battle, Submarine, Super Wipeout, Shooting Gallery.

How did it do?
Fairly well from what I could find on them, Because in most of Europe and Australia they didn't get Atari 2600 til the 80s These systems filled the gaming void. They where made pretty much from 1975 to 1980ish.

Graphics:
It's basically the same as most Pong clones, and the racing game looks and plays pretty much much like street racer for the Atari 2600. What few pictures I found of the other games, it looks pretty much like early 2600 games or Channel F games. Also based on pictures I've seen some play in color others in B&W only. 

Is this system still fun to play?
Most of the games are early Atari 2600 clones, if you own an Atari 2600 there's nothing this system can offer. (lol)

What games are worth playing?
 Again all games are similar to a game on a 2600. (lol)

How many versions are there?
Well from what I can find on this console, and trust me there isn't a lot. About 30-40 different variations.

What do I need to know if I start collecting this system?
Well first off all if you live in the US, then the only way to get one is by importing one from Europe or Australia, (a few sites talked that a few consoles where released in China and the US but the closest That I know off ) The Game carts might be a pain to find and some games may not work in older models (PC-505 cart in a PC-501 system might not work, I haven't tested this but some version carts looks to be different sizes) Most of these systems do have issues working much like the Pong consoles. If you live in the US you'll need a 240 volt converter to plug it in and a PAL television to play them. Consoles are rare to find on Ebay but they do pop up now and again, most of the time they sell pretty cheap when I have spotted one, but shipping will be most of the cost if you live in the US. Finding These systems are only for the diehard collector's who want every console in their collection.

My Experience with the Console
I bought mine on a fluke. I honestly had no idea what it was when I bought it. A guy on Ebay listed it as “Rare Unknown Game Console” and I paid $10 for it. But cost $70 to ship it from Australia. It looked weird and I knew it wasn't an average Pong console and when I saw it had cartridges, it really interested me. I tried at the time to find info on it but couldn't due to I had nothing to go on but a picture. So I took a chance and bought it and a month later it came in the mail. At the time when I bought it I had no PAL TV, so it sat on my shelf for about a year til I found a PAL TV at a local garage sale. I hooked it up and it worked and its just Pong and Street Racer. (lol) I still love owning it and it gets odd looks every time someone sees it. It's the weird little console that very little people know exist, especially in the US. 

Final Thoughts
These systems are a pass to the average collector, if you want to play these games go find a Pong console with a racing game, or buy an Atari 2600 with Video Olympics and Street Racer. It's pretty much the same as what you would get with any of the PC-50X consoles. But if you live in Europe or Australia and come across one of these, you might want to pick it up (if its cheap).


Let me know what you think, should I continue with more reviews and what console would you like me to do next? I may pick one you guys pick or I might just do it in a somewhat order of how they came out. I don't know yet how often I'll have the time to write one of these but I'll have one up as often as I can.   

Leave reply's on your experience with PC-50X consoles, Please post a picture I'd love to see it.     

By the Numbers: I could only find 1 PC-50X system of any kind, owned by yours truly. 

Past Reviews:
Pong Consoles http://vgcollect.com/forum/index.php/topic,4710.0.html
Magnavox Odyssey http://vgcollect.com/forum/index.php/topic,4683.0.html

58

General / Midwest Gaming Classic

« on: April 12, 2014, 08:31:50 pm »

Just got home from the Midwest Gaming Classic and I'm exhausted.

When I got there I noticed a huge white tent and thought "That's new, wonder what they are holding there?"
And it was pretty much where all the vendors where. It started to rain real bad that the vendor floor started to flood then all the power went out, yay looking for games in a dark tent. lol

I was disappointed in how the vendor room was only this tent, in the past there was vendors in a large room inside the hotel and there was vendors all over the place. Lot more little vendors, this time it was pretty much 6-8 large tables that wrapped around where big and small vendors sharing this space. I also found a lot more vendors at full Ebay Prices or over then in the past. But there where still many willing to make deals with you.

While I was looking at a vendors table I noticed someone next to me I recognized right away, It was a famous YouTuber most all of us has watched at some point, it was Gamester81. First thing i said was "Well there's a face I recognize!", I briefly talked to him while looking at games and told him how I bought his homebrew Colecovision game and he was so thankful for the support. I wish I could have talked with him longer but I was there to find games first. lol

So after walking through large puddles of water and fighting the crowd in a dim lit tent. I found quite a few things at some fair prices and even a new rare game console to add to my collection. I'll post my finds in Aprils pick-ups forum later. 
I met up with a fellow buddy/collector there and He wanted so bad the Little Samson empty box but the guy wanted $400 for it. twice what he wanted to pay, so he decided to pass. I saw many things I wish I could have picked up, many Neo Geo AES games (drool). There was also a very rare console there I owned and wanted to buy the games from it but the seller didn't want to separate the games from the console even though I offered a very fair price for them. I left him my Email and I do hope he changes his mind. He said he might if it didn't sell after the show. 

After I was done with the vendor I checked the inside of the hotel and mostly found the usual console/arcade/pinball tournaments, Checked out the Museum and kind of found it smaller then past shows, At least it felt like it. There was a lot of cool stuff to see and got to play some of them a bit.

Once me and my friend was tired and pretty much spent, we decided to hit some of the local game stores in the area and did find a couple things but nothing great. Then we made the long trip home and now I'm going to take a nap then test/clean and play some on my booty later.

If you went to the Midwest Gaming Classic tell your experience below. I'd love to hear it.

       

59

Classic Video Games / My 8-Bits: Pong Consoles

« on: April 05, 2014, 04:10:14 am »

My 8-Bits: Pong Consoles

This will be a forum series where I'll talk about the history and my experience with the gaming consoles I own and this time I'm going over collecting Pong Consoles.

Pong Consoles


The first Atari Pong and the updated Super Pong


Magnavox Odyssey 300 and Odyssey 3000

History:
In 1972 Ted Dabney & Nolan Bushnell founder of Atari released an arcade cabinet that was the first successful video game. People couldn't get enough of Pong. Then in 1974 Atari released a home version that started the home video game craze, and everyone wanted in on this and I do mean everyone. Because Pong/Video Tennis was everywhere. Magnavox, Coleco, and even Nintendo made Pong Consoles.

How did it do?
Very well at first, When Atari first released their system, stores couldn't keep them in stock, then Magnavox released Odyssey models with new features and Atari had to make new versions to compete. Then Coleco released Telestar at half the cost, then everybody was releasing a video tennis console of some kind. The market was so over flooded by 1976 that it was technically the first video game crash. People got sick of it. One can only take so much Pong. (lol) Even though sales plummeted Pong consoles got cheaper and where made will into the early 80s.

Graphics:
Really simple, two paddles and a ball. But an improvement over the odyssey because now it keeps track of score and there's rules and boundaries. Also better physics when you paddle hits the square ball. Most Systems where black and white. But others like Atari did have color.   

Is this system still fun to play?
Kind off. If you have two players and want to play basic table tennis you can have fun, but it wheres off pretty fast nowadays.

What games are worth playing?
It's Pong with some adding hockey, squash, racquetball or some even added a light gun later. Not really much to choose from here. (lol)

How many versions are there?
Oh lord, somewhere around 250 (give or take) There was so many Pong clones on the market it's almost impossible to list them all. 

What do I need to know if I start collecting this system?
Well first off which Pong consoles interest you? Because with so many consoles out there you ether have to pick out the versions you want or just buy what you find in the wild cheap or dedicate an entire room to Pong. (lol) These systems do not age well, most have issues even working and most all get paddle jitters as they age. (basically when you turn the knob to control the paddle on screen it juggles real bad) The other thing to watch for is the battery compartment. Most all of these run on batteries of some kind and people like to leave the batteries in them and over time they corrode away and destroy the system. So the first thing you should always do when finding a Pong console is open the battery compartment. Collecting Pong consoles isn't that expensive, most you can find complete under $50 and loose under $20. The only Pong consoles (that I know off) that fetch higher dollars is the first Atari Pong and Nintendo Pong consoles (only released in Japan). While I'm sure there's a few other rare ones that might go for bigger dollars the two I mentioned are the most popular with collectors. My personal opinion is If you spend more then $20 on an average Pong console you paid to much. And if its compete brand new in box maybe $40.

My Experience with the Console
I remember playing Pong real young, it was a Radofin Tele-Sports model. It was okay but I always preferred playing the Atari 2600 or Odyssey2. I didn't play Pong til after Atari was popular. I have picked up a few Pong consoles here and there, but I honestly don't have many. The only one I ever hunted down was the first Atari model then rest I found cheap in the wild. I still want a Nintendo Model but always found they go for higher prices. I bought an Atari Super Pong from a guy online dirt cheap ($10) and when I got it in the mail I noticed it was heavy and opened the battery cover to find the batteries where a corroded mess. Destroyed everything inside. Only way I could get this console to work is with an adapter. I would like to own the Atari, Nintendo, Magnavox & Coleco consoles. But the rest only if I see them dirt cheap.

Final Thoughts
Pong consoles are definitely a product of the 70s, most have that 70s space age look or a wood-grain look of it's day. I love the look of some of them and others are down right ugly or plain weird. Collecting these consoles are kind of fun just because they look like nothing else. They where kinda the original Plug and Plays we have today. Are they worth collecting? Up to the collector. I personally only buy most of these cheap in the wild. And for the casual collector you should too, if your into classic 70s gaming.

Let me know what you think, should I continue on? I'm gonna and do them in a sort of order as they where released, Again I don't know yet how often I'll have the time to write one of these but I'll have one up as often as I can.   

Leave reply's on your experience with Pong and finding and collecting Consoles. Do you have a Favorite version? I'd love to hear them.   

Past Reviews:
Magnavox Odyssey http://vgcollect.com/forum/index.php/topic,4683.0.html

60

Modern Video Games / NIS Collector's Edition Pre-Order Alert: Hyperdimension Neptunia

« on: April 04, 2014, 05:52:03 am »

NIS is taking pre-orders on Hyperdimension Neptunia: Producing Perfection on PSvita.

http://store.nisamerica.com/Games/Hyperdimension-Neptunia-Producing-Perfection-Limited-Edition

Thought I'd point out a game that might sell fast and become rare.
Remember if you guys find out about a game that might become rare let the rest of us know.