Handheld gaming devices usually come equipped with high-refresh-rate color screens to fully immerse players in their gaming adventures. But there’s a new kid on the block, the ‘Ink Console,’ gearing up for its debut on Crowd Supply, which is challenging this notion of immersion. Rather than chasing high FPS and dazzling OLED displays, the Ink Console features a unique 7.5-inch e-ink screen with an 800 x 480 resolution. The creators drew inspiration from the timeless allure of classic games and choose-your-own-adventure books when designing this device.
In essence, the Ink Console is like an e-reader but with a twist—an analog joystick to seamlessly navigate your way through any gamebook. Plus, it comes with a straightforward development kit, inviting users to craft their own adventures, whether for personal enjoyment or to share with others. Additionally, it boasts an SD card reader, letting users add in-progress gamebooks on the fly.
Another highlight of the Ink Console is its OS-integrated inventory system, which lets you collect and manage items throughout your journey in the game world. There’s even a health status feature, which pairs perfectly with text-based role-playing and adventure titles.
The concept behind this e-ink gaming console is a nod to the classic text adventure books from the ’80s and ’90s, such as Zork I and R.L. Stine’s Goosebumps series. These classics rely heavily on the choices made by the reader—a principle that this device takes into the digital sphere, aiming to enchant younger audiences and foster a new love for reading.
Its thoughtful digital features, like the inventory and health systems, add layers of depth to the gamebooks, enhancing their immersive quality and appealing to readers of all ages.
Though the Ink Console won’t rival the latest in tech like the Lenovo Legion Go S or tablets like the iPad, it’s designed with a specific purpose in mind—adventure reading without the distractions of notifications and multiple apps. This makes it an ideal choice for kids and adults alike who have a passion for reading and the charm of text-based adventures, as long as it hits the sweet spot in pricing.
