Released in 1982, the Vectrex (truly wonderful console), had limited commercial success but has become an icon among retro gaming enthusiasts. Today, it continues to thrive thanks to a passionate and dynamic community.
A Community Looking Ahead
What makes the Vectrex community so special is its ability to keep things fresh. Developers release new homebrew games every year, YouTubers introduce the console to new generations of players, and collectors share their passion. The Vectrex is still very much alive, and that’s something to be glad about.
New homebrews and technical innovations keep coming, like multi-carts that allow several games on a single cartridge. These updates help keep the Vectrex relevant and fun. Meanwhile, retro gaming conventions give fans a chance to meet up and introduce the console to new people. These projects and initiatives all play a role in keeping the Vectrex alive.
A Connected Community
The Vectrex has survived over the decades mostly thanks to an active community that never stopped talking about it. Through social media and forums, fans around the world share discoveries, creations, repairs, and technical knowledge.
Whether you’re a collector looking for rare pieces, a curious gamer discovering the latest homebrews, or a tinkerer wanting to repair and modify your console, there are many online spaces where the Vectrex community gathers.
Some Resources
Groups and Community Spaces
- Vectrex Fans Unite (Facebook):
A large Facebook group with thousands of members sharing their passion. Collections, technical advice, homebrew announcements, anecdotes: a goldmine for any fan.
- r/Vectrex (Reddit):
A space for passionate discussions, mainly focused on repairs and buying tips.
- Vextreme (Discord):
A Discord server where members mostly exchange advice on console maintenance and modding.
- Vectrex.co.uk:
A dedicated site with console resources, forums, and technical archives.
- Vectorgaming.proboards.com:
A forum about vector-based consoles, including the Vectrex.
- AtariAge.com:
Though focused on Atari, it includes an active section for Vectrex enthusiasts.
Archives
- Vectrex Wiki (vectrex.fandom.com):
A must-have reference for anyone interested in Vectrex games, accessories, and history. Frequently updated with detailed and technical information.
- Vectrex Museum (vectrexmuseum.com):
Now inactive, but still a valuable source of archives and info on the console.
- Internet Archive (archive.org):
A treasure trove of Vectrex-related materials like manuals and historical documents. Great for digging up rare content. - rec.games.vectrex (google group):
Interestings archive of the Usenet newsgroup for the Vectrex. (Thanks to Vectrexer for this resource)
Online Content
- X and Instagram:
Follow hashtags like #Vectrex or #RetroGaming to stay up to date. Some accounts, such as @GamesYouLoved, occasionally post Vectrex-related content.
- YouTube:
Many retro gaming channels cover the Vectrex. Creators like Classic Game Room or Play Vectrex share reviews, gameplay of homebrews, and commentary on this unique console.
Some shops
- Kristof Tuts (www.kristofsvectrexgames.be):
A prolific developer of some of the most beloved Vectrex homebrews, like Vector Pilot.
- Sean Kelly (www.vectrexmulti.com):
Creator of the well-known Multi-Cart and a key distributor of homebrews and accessories.
- Chris BinaryStar (www.binarystarsoftware.com):
Developer of many original homebrews.
Us
You can also follow us on our platforms. We explore the console’s history and share your posts. We’re working on some projects around the Vectrex, so stay tuned so you don’t miss out.
The Vectrex Spirit: A Shared Passion
The Vectrex is still alive thanks to you, the fans. Every post, video, homebrew, and discussion helps preserve this extraordinary console and introduce it to new audiences. So keep collecting, creating, playing and sharing.
