Vectrex games on iPad and iPhone!

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The Vectrex was a home console that was based on a vector display. Unlike the extreme majority of home consoles that have existed over time, the Vectrex included its own small vector-based display. If you’ve ever played the original Asteroids in the Arcade, you understand vector-based graphics. The brilliant light and fluid animation might not wow you in screenshots or videos on the internet, but seeing it in person is an entirely unique experience. The Vectrex took advantage of that wow factor and released a home console. Unfortunately, it was never wildly popular, and a majority of the games had to have a semi-transparent plastic card overlay on the screen to explain what it was you were doing in the game. Because of their limited run, Vectrex systems are becoming quite the collectors items.

Well, scrimp and save no more: an official Vectrex app has been released on iOS. It is free to download and try several of the games. It is being updated for great iCade compatibility, and a mere $7 in-app purchase will net you the majority of the Vectrex game catalog (if no the complete catalog, I’m not even certain!). Although it’s not the same as seeing it on a vector-based display, the games are still an enjoyable throw back, ad the app has seen a few improvements since its initial release, although nothing new since December. Still, the least you can do is enjoy the free demos!