Amstrad GX4000 vs Mattel Intellivision

The Amstrad GX4000 and Mattel Intellivision are two classic game consoles from different eras. The Amstrad GX4000 was released in the late 1980s as a successor to the popular Amstrad CPC series, while the Mattel Intellivision made its debut in the early 1980s, offering innovative gameplay for its time.

General information

Amstrad GX4000
Mattel Intellivision
Introduction :
The Amstrad GX4000 was released in 1990 as a follow-up to the unsuccessful Amstrad CPC Plus series. Despite its short lifespan and limited game library, the console has gained a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts. It was primarily marketed in Europe and featured enhanced graphics compared to its predecessor. While not as popular as other consoles of its time, the Amstrad GX4000 is considered a classic and collectible item for retro gaming collectors.
Introduction :
The Mattel Intellivision was released in 1979 and quickly became a popular choice for gamers in the early 1980s. It featured a unique controller with a numeric keypad and was known for its innovative graphics and gameplay. While not as well-known as some other consoles of its time, the Intellivision has gained a cult following and is considered a classic among retro gaming enthusiasts. It is now a sought-after collectible for many gamers.
Advantages :
  • The Amstrad GX4000 offers a unique retro gaming experience.
  • It has a diverse library of classic games to enjoy.
  • The console is compact and easy to set up.
  • It provides a nostalgic feel for gamers who grew up with it.
  • The GX4000 is a budget-friendly option for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Advantages :
  • Intellivision offers a unique retro gaming experience for enthusiasts.
  • It has a diverse library of classic games to choose from.
  • The console’s controllers are innovative and ergonomic for comfortable gameplay.
  • Intellivision has a strong nostalgic appeal for those who grew up with it.
  • It is a collector’s item with a historical significance in gaming.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library compared to other consoles of the time.
  • Lack of third-party developer support for new games.
  • Poor graphics and sound quality compared to competitors.
  • Fragile and prone to hardware malfunctions.
  • Limited controller options and accessories available.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited graphics capabilities compared to modern consoles.
  • Lack of online multiplayer functionality.
  • Limited game library compared to newer consoles.
  • Outdated controller design and functionality.
  • Lack of modern features such as streaming services.
Year launched : 1990
The Amstrad GX4000 was launched in 1990, offering gamers a new console experience with its advanced graphics and gameplay capabilities compared to older systems.
Year launched : 1979
The Mattel Intellivision was launched in 1979, offering gamers a new and innovative gaming experience compared to other consoles of the time. It was a significant addition to the gaming market.
Manufacturer : Amstrad
The Amstrad GX4000 was manufactured by Amstrad, a British electronics company known for producing home computers and gaming consoles in the 1980s and 1990s. The GX4000 was their only foray into the gaming console market.
Manufacturer : Mattel
Mattel Intellivision was manufactured by Mattel Electronics, a subsidiary of the toy company Mattel. It was one of the early competitors to Atari in the video game console market during the early 1980s.
🔴 Popularity : Low.
The Amstrad GX4000 had low popularity compared to other consoles. It sold poorly and had a small market share, leading to its discontinuation shortly after release.
🟡 Popularity : Average.
The Mattel Intellivision was moderately popular during its release in the late 1970s and early 1980s, but it did not achieve the same level of success as competitors like the Atari 2600. It has a niche following among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Form factor : Home console.
The Amstrad GX4000 is designed as a home console, meant to be connected to a TV for gaming. It is not intended to be portable and is best enjoyed in a living room setting.
Form factor : Home console.
The Mattel Intellivision is designed as a home console, meant to be connected to a TV for gaming. It is not a portable unit and is intended for use in a stationary setting.
Official website : https://www.amstrad.com/


Market and availability

Amstrad GX4000
Mattel Intellivision
Console markets :
The Amstrad GX4000 was primarily available in Europe, with a focus on markets such as the United Kingdom, France, and Germany. It was not widely distributed in other regions.
Console markets :
The Mattel Intellivision was available in North America, Europe, and Japan. It was not available in other regions, making it a popular choice among gamers in these specific markets.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The Amstrad GX4000 is now considered retro and collectible among gaming enthusiasts. Its limited release and unique library of games have increased its value in the market.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The Mattel Intellivision is now considered retro and collectible, with a growing market for vintage gaming consoles. Nostalgia for classic games and the unique design make it sought after by collectors.
⚪ Console availability : Unknown.
The Amstrad GX4000 is a relatively rare console, with limited availability both new and secondhand. It may be challenging to find one for sale, especially in good condition.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Mattel Intellivision console is moderately available in the secondhand market, with some units being collectible. New units are rare but can be found through specialized retailers or online platforms.
🟢 Console cost : Low.
The Amstrad GX4000 is considered a low-cost console due to its limited availability and lack of popularity among collectors. It can often be found at affordable prices on the second-hand market.
🟢 Console cost : Low.
The relative cost of the Mattel Intellivision is low due to its age and limited availability in the second-hand market. It is considered an affordable option for retro gaming enthusiasts.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the Amstrad GX4000 can be found through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. Some titles may be harder to come by, but overall there is a decent selection available for collectors and enthusiasts.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the Mattel Intellivision can be found through secondhand markets and online auctions. While not as readily available as newer consoles, there is still a decent selection for collectors and enthusiasts.
🟢 Game costs : Low.
Games for the Amstrad GX4000 are relatively inexpensive due to the console's limited popularity and availability. They can often be found at affordable prices on the second-hand market.
🟡 Game costs : Average.
The relative cost of games for the Mattel Intellivision is average. While some games may be more expensive due to rarity or popularity, there are also affordable options available in the second-hand market.


Technology

Amstrad GX4000
Mattel Intellivision
Architecture : 8-bit.
The Amstrad GX4000 uses an 8-bit architecture, which was common for gaming consoles in the late 1980s. This architecture allowed for simpler graphics and gameplay compared to newer consoles.
Architecture : 8-bit.
The Mattel Intellivision uses an 8-bit architecture, which was common for gaming consoles in the early 1980s. While limited by today's standards, it was revolutionary for its time.
CPU : Zilog Z80
The Amstrad GX4000 uses a Zilog Z80 CPU, a popular choice for many gaming consoles and computers in the 1980s. It is known for its simplicity and efficiency in handling 8-bit tasks.
CPU : General Instrument CP1610
The Mattel Intellivision uses the General Instrument CP1610 CPU, which was a unique microprocessor designed specifically for gaming consoles in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Memory : 64 Kb
The Amstrad GX4000 has 64 Kb of memory, which was considered sufficient for gaming in the late 1980s when the console was released.
Memory : Less than 1 MB
The Mattel Intellivision has less than 1 MB of memory, which was sufficient for the games of its time but is significantly less than modern consoles.
Video output : Composite
The Amstrad GX4000 has a composite video output connection, which can be used to connect to older TVs or with the use of a composite to HDMI converter for modern TVs.
Video output : RF
The Mattel Intellivision console typically has an RF connection for video output, which may require an RF to HDMI converter to connect to modern TVs.
⚪ Graphics Processing : Unknown.
The Amstrad GX4000's GPU information is not well-documented. Due to its release in the early 1990s, details about its dedicated GPU are scarce, making it difficult to determine its specific capabilities.
⚪ Graphics Processing : Unknown.
The specific details about a dedicated GPU in the Mattel Intellivision are not readily available. Further research may be needed to determine the presence or absence of a dedicated GPU.
🔴 Internet connected : No.
The Amstrad GX4000 is not internet connected. It does not have any notable details such as Ethernet or WiFi capabilities for online connectivity.
⚪ Internet connected : Unknown.
The Mattel Intellivision is an older games console and does not have built-in internet connectivity features such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi. Online gaming capabilities are not supported on this system.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Amstrad GX4000 is cartridge-based. Games are inserted into the console via cartridges, allowing for quick and easy gameplay without the need for additional accessories.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Mattel Intellivision is cartridge-based. Players would insert game cartridges into the console to play different games, offering a physical and tangible gameplay experience.


Gaming

Amstrad GX4000
Mattel Intellivision
Controllers : 2 controllers / 2 players
The Amstrad GX4000 supports 2 controllers for 2 players, allowing for multiplayer gaming experiences on a single console. Players can enjoy competitive or cooperative gameplay together.
Controllers : Up to 4 controllers/players
The Mattel Intellivision supports multiplayer gaming with up to 4 controllers or players connected to the console, allowing for a fun and competitive gaming experience with friends and family.
⚪ Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The Amstrad GX4000 did not have online multiplayer capabilities as it was released in the early 1990s before online gaming became mainstream. Local multiplayer with multiple controllers was the primary option.
⚪ Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The Mattel Intellivision was released in the 1980s and does not have built-in online multiplayer capabilities. However, there may be third-party modifications or emulators that enable online multiplayer functionality.
🟡 Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the Amstrad GX4000 were released in an average manner, with a decent selection available. However, due to its limited popularity, finding specific titles may require some effort in the secondhand market.
🟡 Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the Mattel Intellivision were released in a standard manner, with a decent variety available. However, finding specific titles today may require some effort due to the console's age.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Amstrad GX4000 has notable exclusive games such as Burning Rubber, Switchblade, and Fire and Forget II, which are iconic titles for the console and offer unique gameplay experiences.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Mattel Intellivision has several exclusive and iconic games such as Astrosmash, BurgerTime, and Tron: Deadly Discs. These games are considered classics in the gaming community.


When choosing between the Amstrad GX4000 and Mattel Intellivision, consider your preference for retro gaming experiences. The Amstrad GX4000 offers improved graphics and a wider game library, while the Mattel Intellivision has a unique controller design and classic titles. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal nostalgia and gaming preferences.