Handheld gaming consoles usually boast vivid screens with high refresh rates to pull players into their virtual worlds. But the upcoming ‘Ink Console,’ debuting soon on Crowd Supply, is charting its own course for immersion. Instead of focusing on lightning-fast FPS and eye-popping OLED displays, this device opts for a 7.5-inch e-ink screen with a resolution of 800 x 480. Inspired by the charm of classic games and choose-your-own-adventure stories, the creators of the Ink Console are aiming to reintroduce that nostalgic allure.
In essence, the Ink Console is like an e-reader armed with an analog joystick, simplifying navigation through interactive gamebooks. What’s interesting is the inclusion of a user-friendly development kit, empowering enthusiasts to craft their own tales either for personal enjoyment or to share with the community. Plus, an integrated SD card reader opens the door to expanding your library of in-the-works Gamebooks.
One notable highlight is the Ink Console’s inventory system, neatly tucked within its operating framework. This feature allows players to gather and manage various items on their digital adventures. There’s even a health status tracker, tailor-made for those who enjoy text-based RPGs and story-driven escapades.
The creators drew inspiration from the text adventure books that captivated readers in the 1980s and 1990s, such as Zork I and R.L. Stine’s Goosebumps series. These classics left the storyline at the mercy of the reader’s choices. This e-ink gadget turns those nostalgic experiences into interactive digital formats, perfect for drawing younger audiences into the world of narrative exploration.
Beyond its deftly integrated digital features like the health status and inventory systems, these additions potentially deepen the engagement with gamebooks, appealing to both young and seasoned players looking for a more immersive experience.
While the Ink Console might not compete directly with the heavyweights like the latest Lenovo Legion Go S or the versatile iPad, it’s laser-focused on delivering an exceptional adventure reading experience. This singularity of purpose ensures you’ll be free from the distractions of notifications and apps, offering an uninterrupted way to immerse oneself in storytelling. For book lovers and fans of interactive fiction, this could be a gem—assuming it’s priced just right.
