On April 23, 2021, Blaze Entertainment announced their newest console, called Evercade VS. What is the console? Well, this console is a home-based 1080p Evercade system with up to four players supported.
Evercade VS is set for release on November 3, 2021 starting at $99.99 USD. There are multiple options that will be available for purchase. These order configurations include:
Starter Pack 1 Game (TBA) and 1 Controller
Premium Pack: 2 Games (TBA) and 2 Controllers
Special Edition color scheme (TBA)
One of the interesting facts about the console is the dual cartridge slot, which allows for more games to be selectable at a given moment. Evercade VS uses existing Evercade cartridges, which will feature over 280 games by the end of 2021. Save stages are saved directly to the cartridge, so they can be swapped between consoles.
The console will feature a brand-new user interface as well as new resolution options, including “Pixel Perfect” option. There is also built-in Wi-Fi to enable a hassle-free user interface and game updates. At this time, there are no plans for online gameplay.
The console comes with a new controller, but non-Evercade controllers and wireless adapters are supported. Even the handheld Evercade can be used as a controller, but it requires an additional link cable, which is sold separately.
Let’s talk about the cartridges being “subject to license” for a moment. According to the press release, “The Namco Museum collections are by contract Handheld exclusives and are available in Europe only. Therefore those two cartridges will not be compatible with the Evercade VS.” Hopefully this will change because I have routinely said that Namco Museum 2 is the reason to buy the handheld console:
· Brutally honest opinions on Evercade: https://youtu.be/TY7OVpZiUVI
· Review of Namco Museum 2: https://youtu.be/L9CCjztYpeg
The Evercade VS is the first consolized version of the existing handheld ecosystem, and the price is reasonable. I am a bit disappointed because the Namco collections are not currently licensed for this console, but that will hopefully change. I like the controllers and design of the console. It reminds me of the Nintendo Entertainment System’s design. Would I buy one for myself; well that remains to be seen.I bought my handheld unit last year and it supports HDMI out.
