Commodore 64 Games System vs Intellivision

The Commodore 64 Games System and the Intellivision were both popular gaming consoles in the 1980s, offering unique gaming experiences to players. The Commodore 64 was known for its extensive library of games and superior graphics capabilities, while the Intellivision boasted innovative controllers and a focus on sports and strategy games.

General information

Commodore 64 Games System
Intellivision
Introduction :
The Commodore 64 Games System, released in 1990, was a compact version of the popular Commodore 64 computer. Known for its extensive library of games and affordability, it quickly gained popularity in the gaming market. The console has since become a classic among retro gaming enthusiasts and collectors, with many still enjoying the nostalgic gameplay experience it offers.
Introduction :
The Intellivision was released in 1979 by Mattel Electronics and quickly became a popular choice among gamers in the early 1980s. Known for its innovative controllers featuring a numeric keypad and side buttons, the Intellivision offered a wide variety of games including sports, action, and strategy titles. While not as well-known as some other consoles from the era, the Intellivision has gained a cult following and is considered a classic among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Advantages :
  • Extensive library of classic games
  • Retro gaming experience
  • Affordable price point
  • Easy to use interface
  • Durable hardware
Advantages :
  • Intellivision was one of the first home gaming consoles.
  • It had a unique controller with a numeric keypad.
  • Intellivision offered a variety of game genres to enjoy.
  • The console had impressive graphics and sound capabilities for its time.
  • Intellivision had a strong library of exclusive games.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited graphics capabilities compared to modern consoles.
  • Lack of online multiplayer functionality.
  • Limited game library compared to newer systems.
  • Outdated hardware may lead to compatibility issues.
  • Limited storage capacity for game downloads.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library compared to modern consoles.
  • Outdated graphics and sound capabilities.
  • Lack of online multiplayer functionality.
  • Limited storage capacity for game downloads.
  • Difficulty finding replacement parts or accessories.
Year launched : 1982
The Commodore 64 Games System was launched in 1982, offering a range of popular games and becoming a beloved console for many gamers during the 1980s.
Year launched : 1979
The Intellivision was launched in 1979, offering gamers a new and advanced gaming experience compared to previous consoles. It featured innovative controllers and a variety of games for players to enjoy.
Manufacturer : Commodore International
Commodore International, a well-known electronics company in the 1980s, manufactured the Commodore 64 Games System. It was a popular gaming console that offered a wide range of games for players.
Manufacturer : Mattel Electronics
The Intellivision Games Console was manufactured by Mattel Electronics, known for its innovative gaming technology and popular game titles during the early days of video gaming.
๐ŸŸก Popularity : Average.
The Commodore 64 Games System was popular during its time, with a significant number of units sold. However, it did not dominate the market compared to some other consoles. It still holds a nostalgic appeal for many retro gaming enthusiasts.
๐ŸŸก Popularity : Average.
The Intellivision had moderate success during its time, selling around 3 million units. It had a decent market share but was overshadowed by competitors like Atari. Its popularity today is mainly among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Form factor : Home console.
The Commodore 64 Games System is designed as a home console, meant to be set up and played in a stationary location rather than being easily portable.
Form factor : Home console.
The Intellivision console is designed as a home gaming unit, meant to be connected to a TV for playing games on a larger screen in the comfort of one's living room.
Official website : https://www.commodore.ca/


Market and availability

Commodore 64 Games System
Intellivision
Console markets :
Console markets :
๐ŸŸข Collectible : Yes.
The Commodore 64 Games System is highly sought after by collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts. Its nostalgic appeal and limited availability make it a valuable addition to any collection.
๐ŸŸข Collectible : Yes.
The Intellivision is now considered retro and collectible, with a growing market for vintage gaming consoles. Nostalgia for classic games and the limited availability of Intellivision systems contribute to its collectibility.
๐ŸŸก Console availability : Average.
The Commodore 64 Games System is moderately available on the secondhand market. While not as common as newer consoles, it can still be found through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores.
๐ŸŸก Console availability : Average.
Intellivision consoles can be found in the secondhand market fairly easily, but new units are rare. Collectors may have better luck finding complete, working systems with games and accessories.
๐ŸŸข Console cost : Low.
The Commodore 64 Games System is considered low in cost due to its age and availability in the second-hand market. It is relatively affordable for retro gaming enthusiasts on a budget.
๐ŸŸก Console cost : Average.
The Intellivision console is considered to have an average cost in the current market. While it may not be as expensive as some rare vintage consoles, it is also not as affordable as more common options.
๐ŸŸก Game availability : Average.
Games for the Commodore 64 are available through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. While some titles may be harder to find, there is a decent selection for collectors and enthusiasts.
๐ŸŸก Game availability : Average.
Games for the Intellivision can be found through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. Some titles may be harder to find or more expensive due to the console's age and collectible status.
๐ŸŸข Game costs : Low.
The relative cost of games for the Commodore 64 Games System is low due to the availability of second-hand games and the lower demand compared to newer consoles, making it a budget-friendly option for retro gaming enthusiasts.
๐ŸŸก Game costs : Average.
The relative cost of games for the Intellivision console is considered average. While some games may be more affordable due to their age, others may be harder to find and therefore more expensive.


Technology

Commodore 64 Games System
Intellivision
Architecture : 8-bit.
The Commodore 64 Games System uses an 8-bit architecture, which was common for gaming consoles in the 1980s. This architecture allowed for simple graphics and sound capabilities compared to newer consoles.
Architecture : 8-bit.
The Intellivision uses an 8-bit architecture, which was common for consoles in the early 1980s. This architecture allowed for simple graphics and gameplay compared to modern consoles.
CPU : MOS Technology 6510
The Commodore 64 Games System uses the MOS Technology 6510 CPU, which is a modified version of the 6502 CPU. It has a clock speed of 1 MHz and is known for its versatility.
CPU : General Instrument CP1610
The Intellivision uses the General Instrument CP1610 CPU, which is an 8-bit microprocessor known for its performance in handling graphics and sound in early gaming consoles.
Memory : 64 Kb
The Commodore 64 Games System has 64 kilobytes of memory, which was considered impressive for its time and allowed for a wide variety of games to be played.
Memory : 2 Kb
The Intellivision Games Console has 2 Kb of memory, which was considered impressive for its time in the late 1970s. This limited memory capacity influenced game design and graphics capabilities.
Video output : Composite and RF
The Commodore 64 Games System has composite and RF video output connections. To connect to a modern TV, an adapter or converter may be needed to convert these analog signals to digital.
Video output : RF and composite
Intellivision has RF and composite video output connections, which may require adapters to connect to modern TVs that typically use HDMI inputs.
๐ŸŸข Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Commodore 64 Games System does have a dedicated GPU, providing enhanced graphics capabilities for its time. This allowed for more advanced and visually appealing games to be played on the console.
๐ŸŸข Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Intellivision console does not have a dedicated GPU as modern consoles do, but it does have specialized graphics hardware designed to handle the specific demands of its games.
๐Ÿ”ด Internet connected : No.
The Commodore 64 Games System is not internet connected. It does not have any notable details such as Ethernet or WiFi capabilities for online connectivity.
๐Ÿ”ด Internet connected : No.
The Intellivision console is not internet connected. Released in 1979, it predates modern internet capabilities, lacking Ethernet or Wi-Fi connectivity for online gaming or browsing.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Commodore 64 Games System is cartridge-based. Players would insert game cartridges into the console to play different games.
Game media format : Cartridge.
Intellivision primarily uses cartridges as the game format. These cartridges are inserted into the console to play different games, providing a physical and tangible gaming experience for users.


Gaming

Commodore 64 Games System
Intellivision
Controllers : 2 controllers
The Commodore 64 Games System supports up to 2 controllers for multiplayer gaming experiences. Players can enjoy competitive or cooperative gameplay on this classic console.
Controllers : Up to 4 controllers/players
The Intellivision console supports multiplayer gaming with up to 4 players using wired controllers. This allows for a fun and competitive gaming experience for friends and family.
โšช Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The Commodore 64 Games System does not have built-in online multiplayer capabilities, but there may be third-party modifications or emulators that allow for online multiplayer functionality.
๐ŸŸข Online multiplayer : Yes.
Intellivision allows multiplayer online play through its Intellivision Network. However, the availability of online multiplayer games may be limited compared to newer consoles.
๐ŸŸก Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the Commodore 64 Games System were released in an average manner. While some titles are still widely available, others may be harder to find due to the console's age and limited production.
๐ŸŸก Number of titles : Average.
Intellivision game titles have been released in good numbers, but due to the console's age, finding specific titles can be challenging. However, the secondhand market offers a variety of options for collectors.
๐ŸŸข Featured games : Yes.
The Commodore 64 Games System has several exclusive and iconic games such as 'Impossible Mission', 'The Last Ninja', and 'Boulder Dash', which are highly regarded in the gaming community.
๐ŸŸข Featured games : Yes.
Intellivision has exclusive and iconic games such as 'Astrosmash', 'Night Stalker', and 'Utopia'. These titles are unique to the Intellivision console and are highly regarded by retro gaming enthusiasts.


When choosing between the Commodore 64 Games System and the Intellivision, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a wide variety of games with impressive graphics, the Commodore 64 may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer unique controllers and a focus on sports and strategy games, the Intellivision could be the perfect fit for you. Consider your gaming preferences carefully before making a decision.