Sony PlayStation (PS1) vs Vectrex

The Sony PlayStation (PS1) and Vectrex are two iconic gaming consoles from different eras. The PS1 revolutionized the gaming industry with its CD-based games and 3D graphics, while the Vectrex stood out for its vector graphics and unique built-in screen.

General information

Sony PlayStation (PS1)
Vectrex
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.
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 :
  • 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
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 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.
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 : 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.
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 : 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.
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 : 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.
🔴 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 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.
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

Sony PlayStation (PS1)
Vectrex
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.
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 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.
🟢 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 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 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 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.
🔴 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 : 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 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 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.
🔴 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

Sony PlayStation (PS1)
Vectrex
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.
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 : 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.
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 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.
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 : 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.
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 : 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.
⚪ 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 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.
🔴 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 : 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.
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

Sony PlayStation (PS1)
Vectrex
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.
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 : 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.
⚪ 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 : 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.
🟢 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 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.
🟢 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 Sony PlayStation (PS1) and Vectrex, consider your preference for classic or modern gaming experiences. The PS1 offers a vast library of games and advanced features, while the Vectrex provides a nostalgic and unique gaming experience. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your gaming preferences and whether you value cutting-edge technology or retro charm.