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When we think of handheld gaming devices, high-refresh-rate color displays often come to mind, promising vibrant, immersive gaming experiences. Yet, the upcoming ‘Ink Console’ is carving out its own niche on Crowd Supply by embracing a refreshingly unique path to gaming immersion. Ditching the flashy high FPS and OLED screen, this console sports a 7.5-inch e-ink display with a resolution of 800 x 480. The company’s creative inspiration draws heavily from the allure of classic games and the nostalgia of choose-your-own-adventure books.
At its core, the Ink Console functions as a hybrid between an e-reader and a gaming device, equipped with an analog joystick that simplifies gamebook navigation. It also features a user-friendly development kit, opening doors for players to craft their own narrative adventures either for personal storytelling or sharing with friends. Coupling this with a built-in SD card reader, users have the flexibility to expand their library of gamebooks, broadening the horizons of interactive storytelling.
A standout feature of the Ink Console is its cleverly integrated inventory system within the operating system. This allows for the collection and management of various items during gameplay, enhancing the experience in such adventures. Additionally, a health status system is also included, making it particularly appealing for those who enjoy text-based role-playing games.
The innovative idea behind this e-ink console harks back to text adventure books that were a staple for many in the 1980s and 1990s, from classics like Zork I to R.L. Stine’s Goosebumps series. The Ink Console transforms these stories into digital formats, allowing users to steer the narrative through their choices, thereby rekindling a love for reading among newer generations.
The digital aspects, such as the health status and inventory systems, enrich the gamebooks, providing a depth that draws in readers of all ages. While the Ink Console might not stand toe-to-toe with contemporary handheld gaming goliaths like the Lenovo Legion Go S or modern tablets such as the iPad, it shines in its dedicated purpose. With no interruptions from notifications or external apps, it’s an ideal choice for those who relish getting lost in text-based narratives, assuming it hits the right price point.
