Evercade is an interesting retro and indie-focused platform that started started as a cartridge-based handheld. Manufacturer Blaze Entertainment then released the Evercade VS, an HD console for televisions, which plays the same cartridge-based games - some in co-op. Now, Blaze has announced two exciting new products: the Irem Arcade Collection 1 for Evercade, which will include the co-op classics In The Hunt and Lightning Swords, as well as a premium portable console, the Evercade EXP.
Irem Arcade Collection 1 will include:
In the Hunt and Lightning Swords
In the Hunt (1993): A submarine-based side-scrolling shoot 'em up with 2-player co-op from Irem. In the Hunt was actually developed by the same team that would go on to create Metal Slug for SNK. Also available on iiRcade. Lightning Swords (1991): Also known as Ken-Go, Lightning Swords is a side-scrolling action platformer with 2-player co-op, similar to The Ninja Warriors but set in feudal Japan. R-Type (1987): A side-scrolling shoot 'em up that spawned several sequels. Also available on iiRcade. Moon Patrol (1982): A classic side-scrolling platformer/shooter set on the moon Battle Chopper (1987): Also known as Mr. Heli, Battle Chopper is a shoot 'em up in which players can fly and scroll the screen in any direction. 10-Yard Fight (1983): A classic American football gameAs for the Evercade EXP portable console, it will include:
High resolution 4.3” IPS screen with 800x480 resolution and a tempered glass bezel Tate mode: The console is designed to be rotated 90 degrees anticlockwise in order to play vertical-orientated games Built-in Wi-Fi USB-C Charging Mini-HDMI 720p TV output 1.5Ghz processor and 4GB of built-in memory (The same specs as the Evercade VS console)Included in the box is the EVERCADE EXP console, the IREM Arcade 1 cartridge collection, a USB-C Charging cable, and a quick start guide.
We're not sure whether the Evercade EXP will support multiplayer via Wi-Fi; the original Evercade portable lacked multiplayer support. Wi-Fi will definitely be used for console and game updates, at least.
In the UK, the Evercade EXP Limited Edition is currently available to preorder for £179.99 GBP from Funstock. US preorders for Irem Arcade 1 and the Evercade EXP haven't opened up yet, but we expect Amazon and Best Buy to carry both products. The Evercade VS home console sells for $129.99 at Amazon.