Which Intellivision console do you prefer, original, II, or III?

[+cmart604]

I'm a bit surprised no one likes the II, I don't like the old keypads as much because the stupid bubble things always end up sticking. I'll admit that opening up the II controllers is a bad idea though I just keep some spares around, but you can use different controllers with the intv II if you like too. My Intellivision II has lasted me from about 1984 or so until now with no serious problems other than replacing the controllers every once in a while. I do have an original in the basement I could bring out if I ever want to play coleco games, but for some reason it hasn't been an issue yet

 

I like all of them, but I think my favorite is actually the Intellivision II.

 

Contrary to popular misconception, 4 of the 8 Coleco titles are perfectly compatible with Intellivision II (Donkey Kong Junior, Zaxxon, Turbo, and Lady Bug). Only Donkey Kong, Carnival, Mouse Trap, and Venture WILL NOT run on an Intellivision II, in addition to (I think) one of the Electric Company games (what a loss...).

 

But in exchange for not being able to play a handful of mediocre-to-below-average games (okay, Venture is pretty rad), the Intellivision II can be used with the ECS computer adapter (which a handful of quasi-rare games require, but is neat even by itself) and System Changer 2600 adapter.

 

The controllers really aren't that bad, either. They're a little strange in that the fire buttons aren't actually buttons (they're more like pressure points, and as such, they offer virtually zero tactile feedback), but they're surprisingly responsive. Once you make the connection that you aren't actually pressing buttons, you get a feel for them. Or at least, I did.

 

 

I'll amend my earlier post, however, in regards to the ECS computer adapter: I just tried it on my Tandyvision, and it works. So apparently the ECS will work with any Intellivision system.

 

(I wonder how "it will only work on a II" got started, let alone taken as gospel for so long? Probably the same way that "Intellivision II won't run ANY Coleco titles" did. )

 

Regardless, I still like Intellivision II the best. :D

 

And honestly, I've always thought the "don't get an Intellivision II because it won't play X,Y, and Z" is a bunch of crap, since -let's face it- the games that are incompatible with it aren't games you're likely to want to play much anyway, other than to see if they're as bad as you remember. (Venture, again, being the notable exception.)

 

 

That's funny, I've never bothered trying an ECS with anything other than an INTV 2 because I'd heard the same thing. Still looks better hooked up to a 2 though.

[Rev]

I'm a bit surprised no one likes the II, I don't like the old keypads as much because the stupid bubble things always end up sticking. I'll admit that opening up the II controllers is a bad idea though I just keep some spares around, but you can use different controllers with the intv II if you like too. My Intellivision II has lasted me from about 1984 or so until now with no serious problems other than replacing the controllers every once in a while. I do have an original in the basement I could bring out if I ever want to play coleco games, but for some reason it hasn't been an issue yet

 

I like all of them, but I think my favorite is actually the Intellivision II.

 

Contrary to popular misconception, 4 of the 8 Coleco titles are perfectly compatible with Intellivision II (Donkey Kong Junior, Zaxxon, Turbo, and Lady Bug). Only Donkey Kong, Carnival, Mouse Trap, and Venture WILL NOT run on an Intellivision II, in addition to (I think) one of the Electric Company games (what a loss...).

 

But in exchange for not being able to play a handful of mediocre-to-below-average games (okay, Venture is pretty rad), the Intellivision II can be used with the ECS computer adapter (which a handful of quasi-rare games require, but is neat even by itself) and System Changer 2600 adapter.

 

The controllers really aren't that bad, either. They're a little strange in that the fire buttons aren't actually buttons (they're more like pressure points, and as such, they offer virtually zero tactile feedback), but they're surprisingly responsive. Once you make the connection that you aren't actually pressing buttons, you get a feel for them. Or at least, I did.

 

 

I'll amend my earlier post, however, in regards to the ECS computer adapter: I just tried it on my Tandyvision, and it works. So apparently the ECS will work with any Intellivision system.

 

(I wonder how "it will only work on a II" got started, let alone taken as gospel for so long? Probably the same way that "Intellivision II won't run ANY Coleco titles" did. )

 

Regardless, I still like Intellivision II the best. :D

 

And honestly, I've always thought the "don't get an Intellivision II because it won't play X,Y, and Z" is a bunch of crap, since -let's face it- the games that are incompatible with it aren't games you're likely to want to play much anyway, other than to see if they're as bad as you remember. (Venture, again, being the notable exception.)

 

 

That's funny, I've never bothered trying an ECS with anything other than an INTV 2 because I'd heard the same thing. Still looks better hooked up to a 2 though.

 

Just like the system changer looks best on the intv 2.

[+cmart604]

I'm a bit surprised no one likes the II, I don't like the old keypads as much because the stupid bubble things always end up sticking. I'll admit that opening up the II controllers is a bad idea though I just keep some spares around, but you can use different controllers with the intv II if you like too. My Intellivision II has lasted me from about 1984 or so until now with no serious problems other than replacing the controllers every once in a while. I do have an original in the basement I could bring out if I ever want to play coleco games, but for some reason it hasn't been an issue yet

 

I like all of them, but I think my favorite is actually the Intellivision II.

 

Contrary to popular misconception, 4 of the 8 Coleco titles are perfectly compatible with Intellivision II (Donkey Kong Junior, Zaxxon, Turbo, and Lady Bug). Only Donkey Kong, Carnival, Mouse Trap, and Venture WILL NOT run on an Intellivision II, in addition to (I think) one of the Electric Company games (what a loss...).

 

But in exchange for not being able to play a handful of mediocre-to-below-average games (okay, Venture is pretty rad), the Intellivision II can be used with the ECS computer adapter (which a handful of quasi-rare games require, but is neat even by itself) and System Changer 2600 adapter.

 

The controllers really aren't that bad, either. They're a little strange in that the fire buttons aren't actually buttons (they're more like pressure points, and as such, they offer virtually zero tactile feedback), but they're surprisingly responsive. Once you make the connection that you aren't actually pressing buttons, you get a feel for them. Or at least, I did.

 

 

I'll amend my earlier post, however, in regards to the ECS computer adapter: I just tried it on my Tandyvision, and it works. So apparently the ECS will work with any Intellivision system.

 

(I wonder how "it will only work on a II" got started, let alone taken as gospel for so long? Probably the same way that "Intellivision II won't run ANY Coleco titles" did. )

 

Regardless, I still like Intellivision II the best. :D

 

And honestly, I've always thought the "don't get an Intellivision II because it won't play X,Y, and Z" is a bunch of crap, since -let's face it- the games that are incompatible with it aren't games you're likely to want to play much anyway, other than to see if they're as bad as you remember. (Venture, again, being the notable exception.)

 

 

That's funny, I've never bothered trying an ECS with anything other than an INTV 2 because I'd heard the same thing. Still looks better hooked up to a 2 though.

 

Just like the system changer looks best on the intv 2.

 

True dat.

[ghsqb]

I'm a bit surprised no one likes the II, I don't like the old keypads as much because the stupid bubble things always end up sticking. I'll admit that opening up the II controllers is a bad idea though I just keep some spares around, but you can use different controllers with the intv II if you like too. My Intellivision II has lasted me from about 1984 or so until now with no serious problems other than replacing the controllers every once in a while. I do have an original in the basement I could bring out if I ever want to play coleco games, but for some reason it hasn't been an issue yet

 

I like all of them, but I think my favorite is actually the Intellivision II.

 

Contrary to popular misconception, 4 of the 8 Coleco titles are perfectly compatible with Intellivision II (Donkey Kong Junior, Zaxxon, Turbo, and Lady Bug). Only Donkey Kong, Carnival, Mouse Trap, and Venture WILL NOT run on an Intellivision II, in addition to (I think) one of the Electric Company games (what a loss...).

 

But in exchange for not being able to play a handful of mediocre-to-below-average games (okay, Venture is pretty rad), the Intellivision II can be used with the ECS computer adapter (which a handful of quasi-rare games require, but is neat even by itself) and System Changer 2600 adapter.

 

The controllers really aren't that bad, either. They're a little strange in that the fire buttons aren't actually buttons (they're more like pressure points, and as such, they offer virtually zero tactile feedback), but they're surprisingly responsive. Once you make the connection that you aren't actually pressing buttons, you get a feel for them. Or at least, I did.

 

 

I'll amend my earlier post, however, in regards to the ECS computer adapter: I just tried it on my Tandyvision, and it works. So apparently the ECS will work with any Intellivision system.

 

(I wonder how "it will only work on a II" got started, let alone taken as gospel for so long? Probably the same way that "Intellivision II won't run ANY Coleco titles" did. )

 

Regardless, I still like Intellivision II the best. :D

 

And honestly, I've always thought the "don't get an Intellivision II because it won't play X,Y, and Z" is a bunch of crap, since -let's face it- the games that are incompatible with it aren't games you're likely to want to play much anyway, other than to see if they're as bad as you remember. (Venture, again, being the notable exception.)

 

 

I was using my ECS this morning on my Inty 1, so I can confirm it works on that model as well, and while you have to do a mod to your Inty 1 to use the system changer, it is possible.

Beyond the Coleco games the following Intellivision games don't work properly on an Inty II as well:

 

Space Spartans, Shark! Shark!, Super Pro Football.

[SlowCoder]

You could always go with the Tutorvision.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Doesn't matter how many times I see this, I can't get enough.

 

Yep, very nice looking indeed. I'm guessing by Rev's lack of response to whether he owns this one or is just showing an inet pic that he doesn't own it.

[BassGuitari]

 

Beyond the Coleco games the following Intellivision games don't work properly on an Inty II as well:

 

Space Spartans, Shark! Shark!, Super Pro Football.

 

They work fine on mine.

 

Actually, now that you mention it, I seem to remember having issues with Super Pro Football, but I haven't played it in a long time. As far as Space Spartans and Shark Shark are concerned, I think they might have minor sound issues, but nothing that detracts from the gameplay in any way.

 

The only games I've have problems with (as in, they can't be played) running on my II are, IIRC:

Donkey Kong

Carnival

Venture

Mouse Trap (I don't actually own this one yet -somehow- but I've read from several sources that it's incompatible)

Electric Co. Math Fun

 

And by the by...

 

 

Intellivision II + ECS + System Changer FTW.

 

(Throw an Intellivoice in there too, if you'd like.)

 

[Rev]

You could always go with the Tutorvision.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Doesn't matter how many times I see this, I can't get enough.

 

Yep, very nice looking indeed. I'm guessing by Rev's lack of response to whether he owns this one or is just showing an inet pic that he doesn't own it.

 

I wish i owned it!!!

 

[+cmart604]

I found the Intellivision FAQ on the INTV Funhouse website so I understand the technical differences, but which do you think has the best play value or durability? Thinking about picking one up sometime but not sure which to get.

 

I'd definitely say the Super Pro System or the Intellivision III.

IMHO the original has the best hand controllers and wood grain goodness but issues with overheating, and the inability to easily swap out damaged or defective hand controllers make Intelly III the choice I think.

 

I'd say stay away from the II.

 

Incompatibility with some of the games, and the worst hand controllers of the group make this one a no go.

 

I Agree, but please note that the Intv System III had several Versions of the controllersm I have the lucky to find the best one that is like the Original (golden Keypad) Stay away of the ones with Black keypad because is more frustrating to new users.

 

I'd never noticed this. I was looking at my INTV 3's last night and I have three different controller versions. Two have the flat black keypad, similiar to the INTV 2, one has the gold bubbled version, and one has a black bubbled version. Huh. I'll take pics tonight as I'm hard at work at the moment.

[SlowCoder]

hard at work ... posting on AA I'm guilty of the same awesomeness.

[SlowCoder]

I only have the model 1, but I really like the way it looks. It's got a real classy look to it that I think reflects its period in time. I believe the model 2 lacks that. I've considered what my 2nd one should be. I really like the wood grain look of the Tandyvision and would like to get it one day. While I don't particularly care for the looks of the model 2, I understand that it fits better with the voice module, etc.

[jaybird3rd]

That's funny, I've never bothered trying an ECS with anything other than an INTV 2 because I'd heard the same thing. Still looks better hooked up to a 2 though.

I never actually heard the rumor that the ECS Computer Adaptor won't work with anything but a II. I suppose the fact that the II is a better cosmetic match than the other models must have had something to do with it. There might also have been some confusion with the System Changer, which does require a II (or at least a modified Master Component).

 

Damn, I still want one of those TutorVisions!

[ataridave]

I've been told that the controllers on the Intellivision II aren't as comfortable-neither the buttons, nor the disc. I don't know if this is true, though.

[jaybird3rd]

I've been told that the controllers on the Intellivision II aren't as comfortable-neither the buttons, nor the disc. I don't know if this is true, though.

The general consensus seems to be that they aren't as comfortable, but I've found that they aren't quite as bad as people sometimes make them out to be, either. They just take some getting used to.

[OldSchoolRetroGamer]

I would love to have that TUTOR VISION model, I love the color scheme, the only downside is it reminds me of THIS bastard!

 

[Rev]

I would love to have that TUTOR VISION model, I love the color scheme, the only downside is it reminds me of THIS bastard!

 

 

This is actually Cmart at the last Video Game convention in Canada.

[+cmart604]

I would love to have that TUTOR VISION model, I love the color scheme, the only downside is it reminds me of THIS bastard!

 

 

This is actually Cmart at the last Video Game convention in Canada.

 

I keep telling you, I don't have a moustache!

[SlowCoder]

I would love to have that TUTOR VISION model, I love the color scheme, the only downside is it reminds me of THIS bastard!

 

 

This is actually Cmart at the last Video Game convention in Canada.

[townparkradio]

I've got a Tandyvision on the way. Landed one with 13 commons in box for $58 (this includes shipping)... 7 of which I didn't have before. A couple are those multiplayer-only sports games but.. who cares? Collectible! Are Tandyvisions as reliable as I've heard? Some friends of mine who may or may not know better have told me they're better than anything except a System III for reliability.... figured I'd ask you fine folks about it.

[NightSprinter]

Wow.. I.. feel bad for just having won an Intellivision II with two loose and about a literal dozen boxed games (sadly one of 'em was DK) for $16 after shipping ($15 of that was just shipping costs).

[townparkradio]

Wow.. I.. feel bad for just having won an Intellivision II with two loose and about a literal dozen boxed games (sadly one of 'em was DK) for $16 after shipping ($15 of that was just shipping costs).

 

I might have seen that auction. Thing is I already have an inty 2, got the system and 4 games for $15. I wanted one of the first gen Intys because the controllers don't have that awful cavity in the back. That and they're easier to open and repair.

 

Although if you don't want that DK, I'd be happy to take it off your hands. I know it's awful but... I liked the 2600 version, why not give the Inty one a try? I have some doubles I can offer you, though they're only loose, some have manuals and such.

[+cmart604]

I've got a Tandyvision on the way. Landed one with 13 commons in box for $58 (this includes shipping)... 7 of which I didn't have before. A couple are those multiplayer-only sports games but.. who cares? Collectible! Are Tandyvisions as reliable as I've heard? Some friends of mine who may or may not know better have told me they're better than anything except a System III for reliability.... figured I'd ask you fine folks about it.

 

The Tandy is the best of the bunch in my books and is the model I play on the most, plus there's just so much woodgrainy goodness going on!

[+cmart604]

Wow.. I.. feel bad for just having won an Intellivision II with two loose and about a literal dozen boxed games (sadly one of 'em was DK) for $16 after shipping ($15 of that was just shipping costs).

 

I might have seen that auction. Thing is I already have an inty 2, got the system and 4 games for $15. I wanted one of the first gen Intys because the controllers don't have that awful cavity in the back. That and they're easier to open and repair.

 

Although if you don't want that DK, I'd be happy to take it off your hands. I know it's awful but... I liked the 2600 version, why not give the Inty one a try? I have some doubles I can offer you, though they're only loose, some have manuals and such.

 

You both might want to check out the new DK Arcade coming for the INTV likely in August. Check the INTV threads if you haven't already.

[townparkradio]

 

You both might want to check out the new DK Arcade coming for the INTV likely in August. Check the INTV threads if you haven't already.

 

It does look extremely beautiful, but that was the last $50 I'm gonna be able to spend for a VERY long time. Gotta build a cabin and assemble the solar system, and for some odd reason my wife seems to think I'm going to be able to build 2 stories tall 20x20 for under 3 thousand dollars. This should be quite an adventure, lol.

Edited May 31, 2011 by townparkradio

[SlowCoder]

It does look extremely beautiful, but that was the last $50 I'm gonna be able to spend for a VERY long time. Gotta build a cabin and assemble the solar system, and for some odd reason my wife seems to think I'm going to be able to build 2 stories tall 20x20 for under 3 thousand dollars. This should be quite an adventure, lol.

 

I know all about log cabins. I used to build them when I was younger. Even 2-story versions. You can build it for under $3000, and have at least a few hundred dollars left over for more gaming goodies.

 

See here for pricing and options

[borntorun]

I like my Intellivision III, from INTV.