Magnavox Odyssey² (Odyssey 2) vs Nintendo DS

The Magnavox Odyssey², released in 1978, was one of the early home video game consoles that offered simple graphics and gameplay. In contrast, the Nintendo DS, launched in 2004, revolutionized handheld gaming with its dual screens, touch controls, and extensive game library.

General information

Magnavox Odyssey² (Odyssey 2)
Nintendo DS
Introduction :
The Magnavox Odyssey², also known as the Odyssey 2, was released in 1978 as a home video game console. It was popular in North America and Europe, offering a variety of games such as sports, arcade, and educational titles. While not as well-known as some other consoles of its time, the Odyssey² has gained a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts and collectors for its unique design and gameplay experiences.
Introduction :
The Nintendo DS, released in 2004, was a revolutionary handheld gaming console that featured dual screens, touch screen technology, and a wide range of popular games. It quickly became a hit with gamers of all ages, selling over 150 million units worldwide. The DS has since become a classic and collectible item for many gaming enthusiasts, with a vast library of games that continue to be enjoyed by players today.
Advantages :
  • The Magnavox Odyssey² offers a unique and nostalgic gaming experience.
  • It has a diverse library of games that cater to different preferences.
  • The console is compact and easy to set up, perfect for small spaces.
  • The controllers are simple and intuitive, making gameplay accessible to all.
  • The Odyssey² is a budget-friendly option for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Advantages :
  • Portable and compact design for gaming on the go.
  • Dual screens offer unique gameplay experiences.
  • Touch screen functionality adds interactivity to games.
  • Wide range of game titles available for all ages.
  • Backward compatibility with Game Boy Advance games.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library
  • Poor graphics quality
  • Lack of third-party support
  • Limited controller options
  • Lack of online capabilities
Disadvantages :
  • Limited graphics capabilities compared to newer consoles.
  • Small screen size may not be ideal for all players.
  • Limited online capabilities and multiplayer options.
  • Limited storage capacity for game saves and downloads.
  • Lack of modern features such as HD graphics and streaming services.
Year launched : 1978
The Magnavox Odyssey² (Odyssey 2) was launched in 1978, offering early gamers a unique gaming experience with its innovative features and gameplay options compared to other consoles of the time.
Year launched : 2004
The Nintendo DS was launched in 2004, introducing dual screens and touch screen capabilities. It quickly became popular for its innovative features and diverse game library.
Manufacturer : Magnavox
Magnavox, an American electronics company, manufactured the Magnavox Odyssey² (Odyssey 2) gaming console. Released in 1978, it was one of the early home video game systems.
Manufacturer : Nintendo
Nintendo is the manufacturer of the Nintendo DS, a popular handheld gaming console that was released in 2004. Known for its innovative dual-screen design and extensive game library.
🔴 Popularity : Low.
The Magnavox Odyssey² (Odyssey 2) had relatively low popularity compared to other consoles. It did not sell as well as competitors and had a smaller market share in the gaming industry.
🟡 Popularity : Average.
The Nintendo DS was a popular handheld console with over 154 million units sold worldwide. It had a significant market share in the handheld gaming market, but faced competition from other consoles.
Form factor : Home console.
The Magnavox Odyssey² (Odyssey 2) 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.
Form factor : Handheld console.
The Nintendo DS is a portable console designed for gaming on the go. Its compact size and dual-screen layout make it easy to take with you wherever you go.
Official website : https://www.magnavox.com/
Official website : https://www.nintendo.com/ds/


Market and availability

Magnavox Odyssey² (Odyssey 2)
Nintendo DS
Console markets :
The Magnavox Odyssey² (Odyssey 2) was primarily available in North America and Europe during its release in the late 1970s and early 1980s. It was not widely distributed in other regions.
Console markets :
The Nintendo DS was available in multiple markets worldwide, including North America, Europe, Japan, and Australia. It was one of the best-selling handheld consoles of all time.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The Magnavox Odyssey² is considered retro and collectible due to its historical significance as one of the early home video game consoles. Its unique design and limited availability contribute to its appeal among collectors.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The Nintendo DS is considered retro and collectible due to its nostalgic appeal, unique dual-screen design, and library of classic games. Collectors are willing to pay premium prices for rare editions.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Magnavox Odyssey² (Odyssey 2) is moderately available in the secondhand market. While not as common as newer consoles, it can still be found through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Nintendo DS is still relatively available in the secondhand market, with a decent amount of units being sold. However, finding brand new consoles may be more challenging as they are no longer in production.
🟢 Console cost : Low.
The Magnavox Odyssey² is considered low in cost due to its age and limited availability. It can be found at relatively affordable prices on the second-hand market compared to newer consoles.
🟢 Console cost : Low.
The Nintendo DS is considered low in cost due to its age and availability in the second-hand market. It is relatively affordable compared to newer consoles on the market.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the Magnavox Odyssey² are available through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. While not as common as newer consoles, there is still a decent selection for collectors and enthusiasts to explore.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
While new games for the Nintendo DS are no longer being produced, there is still a decent selection available through secondhand markets, online retailers, and used game stores. Collectible availability varies.
🟢 Game costs : Low.
Games for the Magnavox Odyssey² are relatively inexpensive due to their age and limited availability. They can often be found for reasonable prices in the second-hand market.
🟢 Game costs : Low.
The relative cost of games for the Nintendo DS is low due to the console being older and games being readily available in the second-hand market at affordable prices.


Technology

Magnavox Odyssey² (Odyssey 2)
Nintendo DS
Architecture : 8-bit.
The Magnavox Odyssey² (Odyssey 2) uses an 8-bit architecture, which was common for gaming consoles in the late 1970s. This architecture allowed for simple graphics and gameplay compared to modern consoles.
Architecture : 32-bit.
The Nintendo DS uses a 32-bit architecture, providing sufficient processing power for its handheld gaming capabilities. This architecture allows for smooth gameplay and engaging graphics on the go.
CPU : Intel 8048
The Magnavox Odyssey² (Odyssey 2) uses the Intel 8048 CPU, which was a popular 8-bit microcontroller known for its simplicity and efficiency in handling basic gaming functions during its time.
CPU : ARM946E-S
The Nintendo DS uses an ARM946E-S CPU, which is a 32-bit processor with a clock speed of 67 MHz. It is known for its power efficiency and suitability for handheld gaming devices.
Memory : 2 Kb
The Magnavox Odyssey² has a very limited memory capacity of only 2 Kb, which was sufficient for the simple games that were developed for this early console.
Memory : 4 MB
The Nintendo DS has 4 MB of memory, which was sufficient for its time and allowed for a variety of games to be played on the handheld console.
Video output : RF
The Magnavox Odyssey² has an RF output connection, which may require an RF modulator to connect to a modern TV for display.
Video output : Composite
The Nintendo DS only has a composite video output connection, which may require an adapter to connect to modern TVs that typically use HDMI or other digital inputs.
⚪ Graphics Processing : Unknown.
The Magnavox Odyssey² (Odyssey 2) does not have clear information available about a dedicated GPU. Further research may be needed to determine the specifics of its graphics processing capabilities.
🟢 Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Nintendo DS features a dedicated GPU for handling graphics processing tasks, providing enhanced visuals and performance for games on the console.
🔴 Internet connected : No.
The Magnavox Odyssey² (Odyssey 2) is not internet connected. Released in the 1970s, it predates modern internet capabilities and does not have ethernet or wifi connectivity for online gaming.
🟢 Internet connected : Yes.
The Nintendo DS can connect to the internet through Wi-Fi, allowing players to access online features, download games, and play multiplayer games with others around the world.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Magnavox Odyssey² (Odyssey 2) is cartridge-based. Games are played using cartridges that are inserted into the console for gameplay.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Nintendo DS is cartridges. These small cartridges contain the game data and are inserted into the console to play games.


Gaming

Magnavox Odyssey² (Odyssey 2)
Nintendo DS
Controllers : 2 controllers / 2 players
The Magnavox Odyssey² supports 2 controllers, allowing for 2 players to enjoy multiplayer games on the console. Each player can have their own controller for a more interactive gaming experience.
Controllers : Up to 8 controllers/players
The Nintendo DS supports multiplayer gaming with up to 8 players using wireless connections. This allows for a fun and engaging gaming experience with friends and family on a single console.
🔴 Online multiplayer : No.
The Magnavox Odyssey² does not have online multiplayer capabilities as it was released in the 1970s before online gaming became popular. Multiplayer options are limited to local play with friends.
🟢 Online multiplayer : Yes.
The Nintendo DS allows multiplayer online play for certain games, providing an interactive gaming experience with friends and players worldwide. However, the online service for the DS has been discontinued, limiting some multiplayer capabilities.
🟡 Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the Magnavox Odyssey² were released in a standard manner for the time, with a decent selection available. While not as extensive as later consoles, finding games for the Odyssey² is still manageable.
🟢 Number of titles : Good.
Nintendo DS game titles were released consistently with a wide variety of genres and popular franchises. Many games are still highly sought after in the secondhand market, making it a collectible console for gamers.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Magnavox Odyssey² has notable exclusive games such as
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Nintendo DS has many exclusive and iconic games such as Mario Kart DS, New Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass, and Animal Crossing: Wild World, making it a beloved console for gamers.


While the Magnavox Odyssey² holds nostalgic value for retro gamers, the Nintendo DS offers a more advanced and versatile gaming experience with its innovative features and diverse game selection. When choosing between the two, consider your preference for classic simplicity or modern technology.