Handheld gaming devices typically boast high-refresh-rate color displays, ensuring that players are fully absorbed in their games. But there’s a new contender on the horizon that’s turning that notion on its head. Meet the ‘Ink Console,’ set to make its debut via a Crowd Supply campaign. Unlike its peers, this device doesn’t prioritize high frames per second or vibrant OLED screens. Instead, it features a distinct 7.5-inch e-ink display with a resolution of 800 x 480, a nod to the nostalgia of classic games and interactive books.
At heart, this console is essentially an e-reader but with a twist — it comes equipped with an analog joystick, simplifying navigation across gamebooks. Additionally, it offers a straightforward development kit for crafting your own adventures, whether they’re just for your enjoyment or to be shared with fellow enthusiasts. Complementing this, the device includes a built-in SD card reader, enabling users to load up on gamebooks that are still in development stages.
The Ink Console boasts another intriguing feature — an inventory system embedded within its operating system. This allows players to collect and manage items on their journeys through game worlds. Moreover, it features a health status system, making it ideal for fans of text-driven role-playing and adventure titles.
The creators drew inspiration from beloved text adventure books of the ’80s and ’90s, like Zork I and the Goosebumps series by R.L. Stine. These were tales where a reader’s choices directly influenced the story’s outcome. This e-ink gadget aims to revive these classics in a digital, interactive format, captivating new audiences and nurturing a love for reading among the younger crowd.
With its digital enhancements—such as the inventory and health systems—the console might revitalize the format, adding depth and engagement that could draw in readers of all ages.
Certainly, the Ink Console won’t rival the latest tech-heavy handhelds or tablets, such as the Lenovo Legion Go S or even the iPad. But it offers something unique—a focused reading experience undisturbed by notifications or app distractions. This could appeal to both children and adults who appreciate the charm of reading intertwined with interactivity, given that it hits the market at a reasonable price.
