When we think of handheld gaming consoles, we usually envision devices packed with features like high-refresh rates and vibrant screens designed to draw us deep into games. But breaking away from this trend is the upcoming ‘Ink Console,’ set to make its debut on Crowd Supply. Instead of focusing on flashy displays or high frames per second, this device boasts a 7.5-inch e-ink screen, offering an 800 x 480 resolution. The team behind Ink Console drew inspiration from the nostalgic realms of classic games and choose-your-own-adventure books to bring this innovative device to life.
At its core, the Ink Console operates more like an e-reader, but with a twist. It’s equipped with an analog joystick to seamlessly guide users through interactive gamebooks. Plus, it offers an intuitive development kit, allowing budding creators to craft and share their own stories. To top it off, the console is fitted with an SD card reader, so users can easily expand their library with gamebooks that are currently in development.
One standout feature of the Ink Console is its built-in operating system that supports an inventory management system. This functionality invites players to gather and manage various items throughout their journey into different game worlds. Also included is a health status system, which positions the console as an ideal choice for fans of text-based role-playing and adventure games.
The driving idea behind this e-ink console harks back to the beloved era of text adventure books from the ’80s and ’90s. Think Zork I or the Goosebumps series by R.L. Stine, where the narrative’s trajectory shifts based on a reader’s choices. By translating these classic tales into a digital interactive form, the creators of Ink Console aim to introduce younger audiences to these captivating stories, all while sparking a renewed interest in reading.
But that’s not all – the Ink Console’s digital features, such as its health and inventory systems, lend a deeper complexity to these adventure books. They promise a more immersive experience, one that appeals to both the young and the young at heart.
While the Ink Console might not rival cutting-edge gaming handhelds like the Lenovo Legion Go S or advanced tablets like iPads, it offers a distinct advantage. By prioritizing the reading adventure and minimizing distractions from notifications and apps, it presents an ideal solution for both kids and adults who cherish reading and text-based interactions. Of course, the key to its success will hinge on whether it’s priced right for its target audience.
