Mattel Intellivision vs Sony PlayStation (PS1)

The Mattel Intellivision and Sony PlayStation (PS1) are two iconic gaming consoles from different eras. The Intellivision, released in 1979, was a pioneer in home gaming with its unique controller and library of games. The PlayStation, released in 1994, revolutionized gaming with its CD-based games and advanced graphics.

General information

Mattel Intellivision
Sony PlayStation (PS1)
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.
Introduction :
The Sony PlayStation (PS1) was released in 1994 and quickly became a popular gaming console worldwide. It introduced iconic games such as Final Fantasy VII and Metal Gear Solid, solidifying its place in gaming history. The PS1 is considered a classic console and is highly sought after by collectors for its nostalgic value and groundbreaking graphics at the time of its release.
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.
Advantages :
  • Extensive library of classic games
  • Iconic controller design
  • Affordable price for retro gaming enthusiasts
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Compatible with original PlayStation peripherals
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  • Outdated controller design and functionality.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.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited graphics capabilities compared to modern consoles.
  • Lack of online multiplayer functionality.
  • Limited storage capacity for game saves.
  • Limited selection of games compared to newer consoles.
  • Lack of modern features such as streaming services.
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.
Year launched : 1994
The Sony PlayStation (PS1) was launched in 1994, revolutionizing the gaming industry with its CD-based games and advanced graphics. It quickly became a popular console among gamers worldwide.
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.
Manufacturer : Sony
Sony, a leading electronics company, manufactured the Sony PlayStation (PS1) games console. It was one of the most popular gaming consoles of its time, revolutionizing the gaming industry.
🟡 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.
🟢 Popularity : High.
The Sony PlayStation (PS1) was a highly popular console, selling over 100 million units worldwide. It had a significant market share during its time and is still remembered fondly by many gamers today.
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.
Form factor : Home console.
The Sony PlayStation (PS1) is designed as a home console, meant to be stationary and connected to a TV for gaming. It is not intended to be easily portable like handheld consoles.


Market and availability

Mattel Intellivision
Sony PlayStation (PS1)
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.
Console markets :
The Sony PlayStation (PS1) was available in various markets worldwide, including North America, Europe, Japan, and other regions. It was one of the most popular gaming consoles of its time.
🟢 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.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The Sony PlayStation (PS1) is now considered retro and collectible, with a growing market for classic games and consoles. Nostalgia for the iconic titles and unique gaming experience drives its value.
🟡 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 availability : Average.
The Sony PlayStation (PS1) is still relatively available in the secondhand market, with a decent selection of consoles and games. However, finding brand new units may be more challenging and prices can vary.
🟢 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.
🟢 Console cost : Low.
The relative cost of the Sony PlayStation (PS1) is low due to its age and availability in the second-hand market. It is considered an affordable option for retro gaming 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 availability : Good.
Games for the Sony PlayStation (PS1) are readily available through online marketplaces, retro game stores, and secondhand retailers. The console has a large library of titles, making it easy for collectors and gamers to find games.
🟡 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.
🟢 Game costs : Low.
Games for the Sony PlayStation (PS1) are relatively low in cost due to the console being older and games being widely available in the second-hand market. This makes it an affordable option for retro gaming enthusiasts.


Technology

Mattel Intellivision
Sony PlayStation (PS1)
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.
Architecture : 32-bit.
The Sony PlayStation (PS1) uses a 32-bit architecture, allowing for more advanced graphics and gameplay compared to older 16-bit consoles. This architecture was a significant advancement in gaming technology at the time.
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.
CPU : MIPS R3000A
The Sony PlayStation (PS1) uses a MIPS R3000A CPU, which was a 32-bit RISC microprocessor clocked at 33.8688 MHz. It was capable of handling the graphics and gameplay of many popular games from that era.
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.
Memory : 2 MB
The Sony PlayStation (PS1) has 2 MB of memory, which was considered sufficient for gaming in the late 1990s. This limited memory capacity influenced game development and graphics capabilities at the time.
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.
Video output : Composite
The Sony PlayStation (PS1) has composite video output connections, which may require an adapter to connect to modern TVs that typically use HDMI or component inputs.
⚪ 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.
🟢 Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Sony PlayStation (PS1) does have a dedicated GPU, which contributed to its impressive graphics capabilities for its time. It helped deliver smooth gameplay and visually appealing graphics on the console.
⚪ 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.
⚪ Internet connected : Unknown.
The Sony PlayStation (PS1) does not have built-in internet connectivity features such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi. Online capabilities were not a standard feature on this console released in the 1990s.
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.
Game media format : CD.
The primary game format for the Sony PlayStation (PS1) is CD. Games are played using compact discs inserted into the console, allowing for larger storage capacity and more complex gameplay.


Gaming

Mattel Intellivision
Sony PlayStation (PS1)
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.
Controllers : 4
The Sony PlayStation (PS1) supports up to 4 controllers for multiplayer gaming. Players can enjoy games with friends and family locally on the same console, making for a fun gaming experience.
⚪ 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.
🔴 Online multiplayer : No.
The Sony PlayStation (PS1) does not have the capability to play multiplayer online as it was released before online gaming became a standard feature in consoles.
🟡 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.
🟢 Number of titles : Good.
Game titles for the Sony PlayStation (PS1) were released in abundance, with a wide variety of genres and popular franchises. Many titles are still sought after by collectors, making the secondhand market active.
🟢 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.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Sony PlayStation (PS1) has a plethora of exclusive, iconic, and notable games such as Final Fantasy VII, Metal Gear Solid, Crash Bandicoot, and Gran Turismo, making it a beloved console for gamers.


When choosing between the Mattel Intellivision and Sony PlayStation (PS1), consider your preference for retro gaming experiences versus more modern gameplay. The Intellivision offers nostalgic charm and simplicity, while the PlayStation (PS1) provides a wider range of games and more advanced technology. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and gaming priorities.