Handheld gaming consoles typically boast vibrant screens with high refresh rates for an engaging experience. However, the upcoming ‘Ink Console,’ which is gearing up for its debut on Crowd Supply, is charting a unique course to deliver immersion. Unlike its high-tech peers, this console brings to the table a 7.5-inch e-ink display with a modest resolution of 800 x 480. According to the makers of the Ink Console, their inspiration stems from classic video games and the beloved choose-your-own-adventure books, taking a nostalgic step back to reignite those experiences.
At its core, the Ink Console functions like an e-reader, but it seamlessly integrates an analog joystick to simplify navigation within its gamebook realms. Additionally, it offers a user-friendly development kit that allows you to create personal adventures or even share them with others. There is also a convenient SD card reader built into the device, designed to load even more Gamebooks, as new ones are still in development.
What sets the Ink Console apart is its OS-integrated inventory system, which allows players to manage an array of items crucial to their virtual quests. The device even tracks health status, making it an excellent fit for text-based role-playing and adventure games.
Inspired by iconic text adventure books of the ’80s and ’90s, such as Zork I and the Goosebumps series by R.L. Stine, the creators aim to digitally breathe new life into these classics. This e-ink device hopes to capture the imagination of younger readers while fostering a returning love for reading through interactivity.
Moreover, its digital features, like the aforementioned inventory and health status systems, enrich the depth and engagement of these gamebooks. This approach hopes to resonate with audiences across generations, young and mature alike.
Now, while the Ink Console may not rival cutting-edge handhelds like the Lenovo Legion Go S or sleek tablets like the iPad, it shines in its niche. Purposefully crafted for adventure reading, the device offers an undisturbed experience free from notifications and apps vying for attention, making it ideal for those who cherish reading and text-driven adventures. Of course, its success will also depend on how competitively it is priced.
