GCE Vectrex Home Arcade Console - Model HP-3000

(GCE - 1982)

The main component of the Vectrex Arcade system is the console with it's built in display screen and detachable control panel. It's design is simple and functional but still gives it the distinctive Vectrex look and feel that is instantly recognizable by retro gamers.

The graphics on the Vectrex are unique for a home video game system as they are vector based. The screen is monochrome black and white but plastic color overlays were provided with every game to give the illusion of color graphics.

The control panel was cleverly disguised as part of the front of the unit and when released from it's cubbyhole, the power and volume controls are accessible. The control panel features a self-centering joystick and four control buttons that are used for different actions depending on the game cartridge installed in the game.

There was a built in game, Minestorm, which was essentially an Asteroids clone. It came with a color overlay to give the game a more arcade feel.

The contrast control was recessed into the back of the unit and can adjust how bright the vectors are displayed on the screen. When the knob is adjusted so the screen is fully bright, ghost traces can be seen all over the screen from the end of one vector trace to the next, giving the false impression that the screen is malfunctioning. This is the most common cause of someone selling their unit at a huge discount because the screen is malfunctioning. It is a simple matter to turn the contrast down a bit to have crisp and clear graphics again.

Basic system specifications for the Vectrex arcade system/gaming console are listed below.