The Video Game Critic Presents the
Vectrex
1982-1984
Manufacturer: GCE
Format: Cartridge
Controller ports: 2
Save Capability: None
Number of Games: Over 40
Video Output: Not Applicable
Initial Price: $199
A hidden gem among classic gaming collectors, this nifty portable game console was the first (and last) to incorporate its own vector graphics monitor. An impressive piece of hardware for its time (or any time, for that matter), the Vectrex had the misfortune of being released just prior to the video game crash of 1983, so it was never produced in large quantities. The system features smooth 3D graphics and a modest but respectable library of games, making it highly sought-after by collectors.
Vectrex system
Console design: A-. The Vectrex console is solidly built, with a small black and white monitor and four-button controller that can latch onto the main unit (with some difficulty). Completely self-contained and easy to transport, the system packs a lot into a small package. A small cartridge slot is located on the side, and recessed on the front houses a volume knob and reset button. A second controller port allows a second player join the action, but it's awkward for two players to crowd around the small, enclosed screen.
Console durability: A. Despite housing its own monitor, the Vectrex is a durable system that ages well and is not known to break under normal use. Due to its substantial weight however, the consequences of dropping the unit on a hard surface could be severe.
Berzerk (1982)
Graphics: A-. The graphics of the Vectrex defies comparison with its crisp lines and smooth, scaling effects. If you've ever played the original Asteroids or Tempest, you know how appealing vector graphics can be. They stand in stark contrast to the choppy, pixilated visuals seen on other systems of the early 1980's.
One drawback to vector graphics is that they tend to flicker when a multitude of objects are on the screen, but this is not noticeable in most Vectrex games. The system's primary flaw, a lack of color, was half-heartedly addressed by colored overlays included with most games that fit over the screen. These didn't add much to the experience and are difficult to locate today.
Audio: C+. You wouldn't think its little speaker was capable of much, but the Vectrex can deliver some surprisingly decent music and crisp explosions. Some of the more recently developed titles even boast modest voice synthesis. Unfortunately, the speaker does tend to emanate slight static or buzzing depending on what's happening on the screen.
Vectrex controller
Controllers: A-. The standard Vectrex controller is rectangular and wide, with a small metal joystick and four buttons in a row. The joystick is analog and the buttons are small but easy to tap. If you're looking for a second (or replacement) controller, good luck! it's extremely difficult to find a standard Vectrex controller in the wild. Thankfully it's possible to buy Vectrex controllers converted from those meant for other systems.
Vectrex cartridge
Media: B-. Shaped like small blocks, Vectrex cartridges are compact but don't offer much space for artwork. Some of the newer Vectrex releases (Gravitrex) are made from recycled Intellivision cartridges, which are much thinner but have an identical pin configuration.
Packaging: C. Vectrex games were sold in boxes about the size of the Atari 2600 boxes. Not particularly eye-catching, these were printed in the same gray pattern with small, unimpressive artwork on the front.
Mine Storm (1982)
Pack-in Game: A. The Vectrex included a superb pack-in called Mine Storm which was built right into the system. This awesome Asteroids clone was perfect to showcase the power of the system.
Library: B-. The bulk of Vectrex cartridges were developed by a company called GCE. Most of these have passed the test of time and still raise eyebrows today. Although GCE licensed a few arcade hits like Berzerk, Star Castle, and Pole Position, most games were clones of old favorites. Although the Vectrex was not well suited to sports or maze games, it did excel at shooters like Star Castle, Scramble, and Fortress of Narzod.
Collectability: D. The Vectrex is an expensive proposition. Obtaining a working system can run into hundreds of dollars, and the cartridges are neither cheap nor easy to find. The convenient multi-cart is really the way to go if you can locate one. I personally have never pursued the color overlays, mainly because I think the games look fine without them. If you can land one however, the Vectrex is an impressive addition to any video game collection.
Innovations: Self-contained monitor, vector graphics.
Pros and Cons:
+ Sharp vector graphics
+ Smooth scaling and animation.
+ Well-designed controller.
- System expensive and rare.
- Limited library with few arcade hits.