The Magnavox Odyssey 2, also known as the Philips Videopac G7000, and a console released back in 1978 is a rather unique and oddly popular beast. You can find out more about it here and here. To emulate it try this link. Better though grab the original machine and experience its odd built-in keyboard and impressively packaged games. It usually isn't that expensive either.
This Magnavox Odyssey 2 auction seems, for example, like a good opportunity. Seller ships worldwide and, besides a fully working console, will be including 2 joysticks, 7 boxed games and all necessary bits and cables that will help you actually play on the thing.
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I actually played one of these for the first time a few weeks ago. I thought they were some fun little games. One odd thing was that on the games we played you only got 1 life instead of 3. So when you died the one time it felt rather abrupt when you realized it was GAME OVER. Oh well just like real life I suppose. I'm taking a bit of a hiatus from my gaming purchases at the moment but this is on my to-get list one of these days.
ReplyDeleteYes, it was tough on this lovely machine. I did play Quest for the Ring once, mind. Simply amazing.
ReplyDeleteI haven't played that one but it definitely looks intriguing. With all the extras that one seems like it typically goes for around $30-$40 all by itself. I would like to get that and also the Voice module. Have you ever played K.C.'s Crazy Chase with the Voice to hear him laughing when he completes a level? Quite amusing.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to do this actually, though truth be said I've never really seen a G7000 voice module. The Quest for the Ring on the other hand, feels like a proper board game, with a very good game board too.
ReplyDeleteWell, O2EM emulates Voice so give Crazy Chase a go on it if you get a chance. I think you have to enable Voice in the settings menu. Worth the few minutes of time invested. With the board, overlay, etc. I fear emulation wouldn't do Quest justice so I'll have to wait on the real thing for that one. But it's on the list!
ReplyDeleteExcellent idea, will do it.
ReplyDeleteAnd I'm afraid you are right. You simply cannot emulate Quest, unless of course you print a lot of stuff...
The voice module is both near-useless, and a must have accessory for this system. It just adds to the overall ridiculousness. I think my favorite game is probably Pick Axe Pete, it's pretty damn addictive. I found mine in a local thrift shop, I really do need to spend more time with it.
ReplyDeleteSo fascinating... too bad shipping cost is so high! Still, those boxes are SO 70's...
ReplyDelete@ Ion Myke: And apparently I need to at least try it on an emulator. Like the ridiculous loving approach, mind :)
ReplyDelete@ Mik: Yeees... I will try to eventually grab one though.
In high school, my friend Greg had a Odyssey 2 and I have to say that playing with his was a very memorable time for me. It was just one of those experiences I still think about it now and again as an adult and I find myself getting as exactly as excited now as I did back then!
ReplyDeleteA lovely feeling that. Oh, and apparently the Odyssey 2/G7000 was quite popular indeed.
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