Vectrex Elite Work in Progress

Elite for the Vectrex is one of those “why not” things. You know what I am talking about. Castlevania on Atari 2600. Shadow of the Beast on Atari 2600. Super Mario 64 on Atari 2600. Nice to see the Vectrex getting some “why not” love now that I think about it. Elite was released about a year after the Vectrex console, so they are both from the same era.

Elite is a universe

Various publishers handled the launch of Elite, depending on the platform. For me, Firebird is the most recognizable name I associate with this game. As far as ports go, Elite got around on personal computers – not so much on consoles.

Your goal in Elite is to grow from a lowly broke pilot to, well, whatever you want. There is no real set path to take in Elite. You can be a legal trader/cargo hauler or run wild and become a space pirate. There are a few thousand options in between as well.

As you take on work you earn more credits. Using these credits, you can upgrade your ship, weapons, and armor. All of these improve your chance of survival and success.

Wire frame fun on Vectrex

If you are not familiar with the Vectrex, I feel you. I never personally owned one, only having seen them in pictures or on YouTube.

The graphics were all wire frame displayed on a special monitor. This contrasted with other consoles of the time which used the family television to display games.

Graphically the Vextrex was a unique system too. Everything was wireframe and lacked much detail. This did not stop the console from finding a fan base, one that makes games today.

Elite for Vectrex

Right now, the port has a long way to go. It is mainly showing off some basic graphics. As you can see from the various videos on Ralf Kornmann’s YouTube channel, he is making headway here.

Want to catch up on Vectrex gaming? Grab one on eBay and check these articles out.

This article was originally published on Retro Gaming Magazine.