A look at a Vectrex (1982 video game console)

  / ashens   Do you like straight lines and old arcade games? Then the Vectrex may well be the console for you! Released in 1982, the Vectrex features an intriguing built-in vector monitor (basically a normal CRT monitor with different control circuitry) that left the living room TV free for Dad to watch the first ever episode of Taggart. The display is strictly black and white, but by using the astonishingly MacGyver-esque technique of placing coloured plastic overlays on the screen you can make everything look a bit blue.

So what games are there? A nifty rip-off of Asteroids called Mine Storm (just don't reach level 13). There's an overly leisurely version of Berzerk. Then there's Spike, a little star man equipped with River Dance jig and the ability to teleport ladders in his quest to save Molly from the evil Spud. And finally Star Ship. Yes you guessed it, nifty spaceships with magic hypnotizing square effects that I still don't understand despite playing it several times.

As far as we know, this is the only video games console ever released that can cause permanent retina damage even if played on a moderate brightness setting. But don't worry - your eyes are quite safe through the filter of YouTube. Pity about mine.

View more game reviews and hilarious* stuff @    / ashens   (*Due to the subjective nature of humour, hilarity cannot be guaranteed. Your home is at risk if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or other loan secured on it.)