In a press conference that took place today in Tokyo, IOT Media Laboratory revealed its future plans for the MSX0. According to the announcement, they will open a new crowdfunding campaign on Kibidango from November 1st to January 31st. Within this period, Japanese backers will have the opportunity to choose from a range of new MSX0 designs.
One of the more unique options will be a credit card-shaped MSX0 Card, adding a sleek and portable dimension to the gaming device. Other designs include MSX0 watches, illustrating the increasing trend for wearable tech. Notably, the company also announced a plan for a handheld gaming device known as the MSX0 Atom Boy, and ultra-compact MSX computer modules.
The Atom Boy promises to sustain the MSX0's ability to emulate MSX/MSX2/MSX2+ games, but in a size that is even more compact. With an LCD screen measuring just 0.85 inches, this living room experience is being made pocket-friendly. Priced at ¥29,800, the Atom Boy will come with two additional wearable MSX0 devices, offered in the design of a ring and a necklace.
In addition to these promising developments, updates were provided regarding the MSX0’s planned future support by D4 Entertainment. The company's president Naoto Suzuki divulged information on their plans to release almost 30 games for the MSX0 at the start of next year. What’s more, these will be readily available for purchase by non-paying members of Project Egg's Amusement Center service.
Interestingly, there has been mention of interest in a separate crowdfund for countries outside of Japan, such as Brazil, Spain, Holland, and Italy. As it stands, it appears gamers from countries outside Japan will, eventually, be able to order these various MSX0 direct from either Amazon or SwitchScience after IOT Media Laboratory has finished shipping crowdfunding orders.
In a recent development, the MSX0 hit its funding target of ¥59,998,000, solidifying official support for the project. It spun rumors to life after a deal was struck with the publisher D4 Entertainment to bring 100 ASCII MSX games to MSX0 via the Japanese video game service Project EGG.
As for the production of these game devices, IOT Media Laboratory has been working actively in developing the MSX0, with renowned MSX co-creator, Kazuhiko Nishi, showcasing a prototype of a new cartridge reader for the MSX0, which does not include a built-in cartridge slot.
Despite not being integrated into the device, the cartridge reader allows gamers to effectively play their favorite MSX games on the machine. Pictures posted on Twitter revealed the prototype of the reader and the MSX game Volguard connected to the cartridge slot.
Collectively, these developments show promising advances for the MSX0. With the new designs catered towards a sleek, compact, and even wearable gaming experience, the future of handheld gaming may soon transform in unexpected ways. From obtainable games for non-members and the likelihood of international availability, the MSX0 is swiftly breaking down barriers in the micro gaming world.
You must be logged in to post a comment!
