Handheld gaming consoles are renowned for their vibrant, high-refresh-rate screens that deliver an immersive gaming experience. But here’s a game-changer: the ‘Ink Console’ is set to debut on Crowd Supply with quite a unique twist. Eschewing the traditional path of flashy OLED displays and high frame rates, the Ink Console opts for a more nostalgic touch with a 7.5-inch e-ink screen sporting a resolution of 800 x 480. Its creators drew inspiration from the simple charm of classic games and the intrigue of choose-your-own-adventure books to bring this unique device to life.
At its core, the Ink Console doubles as an e-reader, but with the added flair of an analog joystick, it becomes a navigational breeze for adventure game lovers. What’s more, it includes a user-friendly development kit, empowering you to craft your own interactive adventures, whether just for personal enjoyment or to share with friends. Additionally, thanks to its built-in SD card reader, you’ll find it easy to expand your library of gamebooks, even those still in the pipeline.
Now let’s dive into the neat features of this little device. An inventory system embedded in its operating system lets you collect and manage items to aid you on your quests. Plus, a health status feature brings an RPG-like depth, enhancing text-based adventures in ways that harken back to the golden days of gaming.
The minds behind the Ink Console drew inspiration from the classic text adventure books of the ’80s and ’90s, like the iconic Zork I and R.L. Stine’s beloved Goosebumps series. These were times when the narrative path you took was driven by your choices as much as the author’s imagination. By digitizing this concept in an interactive format, the Ink Console aims to introduce a new generation to the joys of immersive storytelling while fostering a love for reading.
Moreover, with its digital extras like the inventory and health systems, these gamebooks aren’t just stories; they become deeply engaging experiences that might captivate both young readers and seasoned gamers alike.
Of course, the Ink Console isn’t aiming to compete head-to-head with powerhouse devices like the Lenovo Legion Go S or slick tablets like the iPad. But that’s the beauty of it — it’s purpose-built for immersive story reading, free from the distractions of notifications and the temptation of countless apps. It’s a spot-on choice for those who cherish the art of storytelling, whether that be through words or interactive gameplay, provided it comes at a reasonable price.
