About the Entex Select-a-Game (Entex Industries Game System)

The Entex Select-a-Game is a hidden gem from the early days of handheld gaming. Buckle up as we journey back to the early 80s, when big hair and bigger ideas in gaming were all the rage!

Release Date and Background: The Entex Select-a-Game system was introduced by Entex Industries in 1981. Entex, an American company, had already made a name for itself in the electronic game market with various handheld and tabletop electronic games. With the Select-a-Game, Entex aimed to offer something more versatile and engaging than the standard single-game handhelds dominating the market.

Design and Gameplay: The Select-a-Game was a fairly large handheld console, especially when compared to its contemporaries. It featured a substantial, colorful display area and a set of removable game cartridges that slotted into the top of the device. The system boasted a VFD (Vacuum Fluorescent Display) screen, known for its bright and vibrant visuals, which was a step up from the LCD screens commonly used at the time.

Each game cartridge came with its own unique control overlay, which had to be placed over the console’s controls. This allowed the system to adapt its control scheme to fit the specific needs of each game, providing a more tailored gaming experience.

The console itself had a simple layout with a joystick and a series of buttons that could be covered by the game-specific overlays. This design was innovative and allowed for a variety of gameplay experiences.

Popular Games: The Select-a-Game had a modest library of titles, with some of the most notable being:

• Pac-Man: Yes, the iconic pellet-chomping arcade classic made its way to the Select-a-Game. This version was quite popular and demonstrated the system’s capability to handle well-known titles.
• Space Invader: Another arcade staple, this game let players defend Earth from descending waves of alien invaders.
• Football: A sports title that brought the excitement of the gridiron to the handheld, complete with strategic play calling and action-packed gameplay.
• Baseball: Entex’s attempt to capture the thrill of America’s favorite pastime in a portable format.

Popularity and Impact: The Entex Select-a-Game was well-received upon release, particularly for its innovative design and the quality of its VFD screen. However, its relatively high price and the competition from more established gaming systems limited its widespread adoption. While it didn’t achieve massive commercial success, it garnered a loyal following among gamers who appreciated its unique features and versatility.

Technology: The VFD screen was one of the Select-a-Game’s standout features, providing bright and clear visuals that were superior to many of its rivals. The system’s use of interchangeable cartridges was another key innovation, allowing players to switch games without needing multiple devices.

However, the system had its quirks. The removable overlays, while innovative, could be a bit fiddly to set up. And the console’s large size made it less portable than other handhelds, which was a notable drawback in an era that prized compactness.

Cultural Impact: While the Select-a-Game didn’t become a household name, it played a significant role in the evolution of handheld gaming. Its approach to interchangeable cartridges and adaptable controls influenced future handheld systems and demonstrated the potential for more complex and varied gaming experiences in a portable format.

Legacy: Today, the Entex Select-a-Game is a sought-after collector’s item, cherished for its unique design and the nostalgia it evokes. Retro gaming enthusiasts appreciate the system for its innovation and the quality of its games, making it a prized addition to any vintage gaming collection.

Fun Facts and Trivia:

• Modular Design: The idea of using overlays for controls was quite ahead of its time, allowing each game to feel like its own unique experience.
• Collector’s Item: Due to its relatively short production run and unique design, the Select-a-Game is a rare find for collectors today, often fetching high prices on auction sites.
• Innovative Tech: The VFD screen technology used in the Select-a-Game was also employed in other high-end electronic devices of the time, known for its bright and colorful display capabilities.

The Entex Select-a-Game was a remarkable and ambitious handheld gaming system that brought a new level of innovation to the early 1980s. While it may not have become the gaming juggernaut Entex hoped for, its influence on the development of portable gaming systems is undeniable.

With its bright VFD screen, interchangeable cartridges, and unique control overlays, the Select-a-Game remains a fascinating piece of gaming history.