Emerson Arcadia 2001 vs Vectrex

The Emerson Arcadia 2001 and Vectrex are both vintage gaming consoles that offer unique gaming experiences. The Arcadia 2001 features a variety of classic games while the Vectrex stands out with its vector graphics display.

General information

Emerson Arcadia 2001
Vectrex
Introduction :
The Emerson Arcadia 2001 was released in 1982 as a home video game console. It was not as popular as other consoles of its time, but it has since become a classic and collectible item among retro gaming enthusiasts. The console featured a variety of games and had a unique joystick controller. While it may not have had the same impact as other consoles, it holds a special place in gaming history.
Introduction :
The Vectrex is a unique games console released in 1982 that gained popularity for its vector graphics display and built-in screen. It was marketed as a standalone system with its own library of games. Despite its short lifespan, the Vectrex has become a classic among retro gaming enthusiasts and collectors due to its innovative design and limited availability. It is considered a rare and sought-after console in the gaming community.
Advantages :
  • Retro gaming experience
  • Unique library of games
  • Affordable price point
  • Compact and portable design
  • Easy to set up and use
Advantages :
  • Unique vector graphics display
  • Built-in screen eliminates need for TV
  • Portable and self-contained
  • Innovative controller with analog joystick
  • Retro appeal for collectors
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library
  • Poor graphics compared to modern consoles
  • Lack of online multiplayer capabilities
  • Fragile hardware that may be prone to breaking
  • Difficult to find replacement parts or support
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library compared to modern consoles.
  • Lack of color graphics may not appeal to some players.
  • Bulky design may not fit well in modern entertainment setups.
  • Limited availability of accessories and replacement parts.
  • Lack of online connectivity for multiplayer gaming.
Year launched : 1982
The Emerson Arcadia 2001 was launched in 1982, offering gamers of that era a unique gaming experience with its library of games and innovative features.
Year launched : 1982
The Vectrex was launched in 1982, offering a unique gaming experience with vector graphics. Despite its short lifespan, it remains a beloved classic among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Manufacturer : Emerson Radio Corp.
The Emerson Arcadia 2001 was manufactured by Emerson Radio Corp., a company known for producing a variety of consumer electronics including televisions, radios, and gaming consoles.
Manufacturer : Smith Engineering
Smith Engineering was the manufacturer of the Vectrex games console, known for its vector graphics display. The console was released in 1982 and offered a unique gaming experience for its time.
🔴 Popularity : Low.
The Emerson Arcadia 2001 had limited sales and market presence compared to other consoles. It is considered a niche console among collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts.
🔴 Popularity : Low.
The Vectrex was not a commercial success, with only around 1 million units sold during its production run. It had a niche market appeal due to its unique vector graphics display, but was overshadowed by more popular consoles of its time.
Form factor : Home console.
The Emerson Arcadia 2001 console is designed as a home gaming system, meant to be used in a stationary setting rather than on the go. It is not a portable unit.
Form factor : Home console.
The Vectrex console is designed as a home console, meant to be played in a stationary location rather than on the go. It features a built-in screen and controllers for a complete gaming experience.
Official website : https://www.vectrex.com/


Market and availability

Emerson Arcadia 2001
Vectrex
Console markets :
The Emerson Arcadia 2001 was primarily available in North America and Europe during its release in the early 1980s. It was not as widely distributed as some other popular consoles of the time.
Console markets :
The Vectrex was primarily available in North America and Europe during its original release in the 1980s. It was not widely distributed in other regions, making it a sought-after collector's item today.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The Emerson Arcadia 2001 is considered retro and collectible among gaming enthusiasts. Its unique design and limited availability make it sought after by collectors, driving up its value in the market.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The Vectrex Games Console is now considered retro and highly collectible among gaming enthusiasts. Its unique vector graphics and limited production make it a sought-after item for collectors.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Emerson Arcadia 2001 is moderately available on the secondhand market. While not as common as some other retro consoles, it can still be found with some searching and patience.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Vectrex console can be found on the secondhand market, but availability may vary. It is considered a collectible item, so prices can be higher for well-maintained units.
🟢 Console cost : Low.
The Emerson Arcadia 2001 is considered a low-cost option for collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts. Its availability in the second-hand market and lack of widespread popularity contribute to its relatively low cost.
🔴 Console cost : High.
The relative cost of the Vectrex Games Console is high due to its rarity and popularity among collectors. Prices can vary depending on the condition and included accessories, making it a valuable item for retro gaming enthusiasts.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the Emerson Arcadia 2001 can be found through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores, but the selection may be limited compared to more popular consoles. Some titles may be rare and sought after by collectors.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the Vectrex can be found through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. While not as common as newer consoles, there is a decent selection available for collectors and enthusiasts.
🟢 Game costs : Low.
Games for the Emerson Arcadia 2001 are relatively inexpensive due to the console's limited popularity and availability. They can often be found at low prices in the second-hand market.
🔴 Game costs : High.
The relative cost of games for the Vectrex is considered high due to its rarity and collectible nature. Games for this console can be expensive to purchase, especially in good condition.


Technology

Emerson Arcadia 2001
Vectrex
Architecture : 8-bit.
The Emerson Arcadia 2001 uses an 8-bit architecture, which was common for gaming consoles in the late 1970s and early 1980s. This architecture provided basic graphics and sound capabilities for gaming.
Architecture : 8-bit.
The Vectrex Games Console uses an 8-bit architecture, which was common for gaming consoles in the early 1980s. This architecture provided simple yet effective processing power for the time.
CPU : Signetics 2650A
The Emerson Arcadia 2001 uses the Signetics 2650A CPU, which was a popular choice for many early video game consoles. It is a simple 8-bit microprocessor known for its reliability.
CPU : M6809
The Vectrex games console uses the Motorola 6809 CPU, known for its efficient performance in handling graphics and gameplay. This processor was a notable feature of the console's design.
Memory : 2 Kb
The Emerson Arcadia 2001 has a very limited memory capacity of 2 Kb, which was common for gaming consoles of that era. This small memory size restricted the complexity of games available.
Memory : 1 Kb
The Vectrex Games Console has 1 Kb of memory, which was considered a decent amount for gaming in the early 1980s. This limited memory capacity influenced the types of games that could be developed for the console.
Video output : RF and composite
The Emerson Arcadia 2001 has RF and composite video output connections, which may require adapters or converters to connect to modern TVs that typically use HDMI or component inputs.
Video output : RF and composite
The Vectrex console has RF and composite video output connections, which may require adapters or converters to connect to modern TVs that typically use HDMI or component inputs.
⚪ Graphics Processing : Unknown.
The Emerson Arcadia 2001's GPU details are not well-documented, making it unclear if it has a dedicated GPU. Further research may be needed to determine its graphics processing capabilities.
⚪ Graphics Processing : Unknown.
The Vectrex is an older console released in the 1980s, and specific details about its hardware components, such as a dedicated GPU, are not widely documented. Further research may be needed for confirmation.
⚪ Internet connected : Unknown.
The Emerson Arcadia 2001 is an older games console and does not have built-in internet connectivity features such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi. It is primarily designed for offline gaming experiences.
🔴 Internet connected : No.
The Vectrex games console is not internet connected. It does not have any notable features such as ethernet or wifi for online connectivity.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Emerson Arcadia 2001 is cartridge-based. Games are played by inserting cartridges into the console, which contain the game data and software.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Vectrex is cartridges. These cartridges contain the game software and are inserted into the console to play different games. The Vectrex does not use CDs or downloads for games.


Gaming

Emerson Arcadia 2001
Vectrex
Controllers : 2 controllers / 2 players
The Emerson Arcadia 2001 typically supports 2 controllers allowing for 2 players to enjoy multiplayer gaming on a single console. Players can compete or cooperate in various games together.
Controllers : 2 controllers
The Vectrex console supports two wired controllers for multiplayer gaming. Players can enjoy classic titles together, adding a social element to the gaming experience on this retro console.
⚪ Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The Emerson Arcadia 2001 does not have built-in online multiplayer capabilities. However, it may be possible to connect with others through third-party adapters or modifications, but this is not a standard feature.
⚪ Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The Vectrex is a vintage console released in the 1980s, and online multiplayer capabilities were not common during that era. It is unlikely to support online multiplayer, but check for any modern adaptations or hacks.
🟡 Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the Emerson Arcadia 2001 were released in an average manner, with a decent selection available. However, due to its limited popularity, finding specific titles may be more challenging.
🟢 Number of titles : Good.
Game titles for the Vectrex were released physically on cartridges, making them easily collectible today. The secondhand market for Vectrex games is active, with a variety of titles available for purchase.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Emerson Arcadia 2001 has several exclusive games such as Space Mission, Cat Trax, and Robot Killer. These games are considered iconic for the console and are highly sought after by collectors.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Vectrex has several exclusive and iconic games such as MineStorm, Star Castle, and Armor Attack. These games were specifically designed to take advantage of the console's vector graphics display.


When choosing between the Emerson Arcadia 2001 and Vectrex, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy classic games and a diverse library, the Arcadia 2001 may be the better choice. However, if you appreciate innovative technology and unique visuals, the Vectrex with its vector graphics display could be the perfect option for you.