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Mysterious Phantom Game Console Unveiled

Posted by simoniker on from the top-quality-bundled-titles dept.

wishforunity writes "On Sunday, Infinium Labs released a video on their website about the specifications of their upcoming console (as mentioned previously on Slashdot.) It includes footage of the interface that will be used to purchase and rent games online. This thing seems like a beefed up computer in a box shape (deja vu?) You can see the video at Phantom.net." The specs include "custom OS on Windows XPe kernel, up to 3.0GHz processor with 256MB DDR RAM, 100+ Gigabyte internal storage device, on-board RF wireless modules, Dolby Digital 7.1 Surround Sound", and "ordering is expected to begin in October", but there's no software announcements - although the example interface in the video shows games such as Sonic Speedsters and, uhm, Bikini Karate Babes. Update: 08/18 00:57 GMT by S : An interview at Gigex.com has word that the price of the baseline unit will be "below $399", and the compulsory online subscription will be $9.95 per month, with game prices ranging from $2.99 to $50.

8 of 61 comments (clear)

  1. It's just a PC with video out in a stupid ugly box by andrewski · · Score: 4, Insightful

    Subject line says it all...

  2. So this console is supposed to stream games heh? by JFMulder · · Score: 3, Insightful

    Then they better start by fixing the video stream links first if they want us to buy into their idea.

  3. Re:It's just a PC with video out in a stupid ugly by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 4, Funny

    Yeah but its a cool website and that alone gets my dollars

  4. PCs in boxes by neostorm · · Score: 4, Interesting

    I built this thing 2 years ago. I don't have to rent the games, it plays over 5000 titles (thanks MAME, Zsnes, etc), it has four console gaming pads and an authentic arcade joystick. It cost me $300. -> http://www.mini-itx.com/

    You'll get a better deal out of making your own and you won't be insulted by titles like "Bikini Kombat Sluts", (and if you like that sort of thing, stick to the XBox with DOA Beach Volleyball. It probably has loads more "gameplay" than this cheap knockoff).

  5. Third Party? by Gothic_Walrus · · Score: 5, Insightful

    Funny...I haven't heard any of the noteworthy third party developers (or even Acclaim, for that matter) announce any form of software support for the Phantom. Even if it does debut, it's going to die very quickly unless they manage to pull in some form of third party support.

    --
    Goo goo g'joob.
  6. Re:Incoming!!!! by Henry+V+.009 · · Score: 3, Funny

    I clicked the original size button, but she wouldn't shrink to normal size!

  7. Price = "below $399"? by sanchny · · Score: 3, Funny

    Translation: $398.99

  8. "up to 3.0 GHz"?? by fowlerserpent · · Score: 3, Interesting

    It says up to 3.0GHz. I'll assume for $399 you dont get that processor.

    256MB of ram isn't enough.

    If this were microsoft,they might have a chance, because they would have billions of dollars in cash to burn through, ala the XBox. Even then, it would still be shitty.

    Furthermore, I think the press is going to kill these guys. I sense bad reviews once it is released.

    That being said. Its almost a good idea. A $400 computer is a good idea. Though, after the subscription costs, future upgrade costs, etc. Will it really be any (or much more) cheaper than a cheap gaming rig, which can actually do more.

    I think these guys are going to throw a lot of FUD at misinformed consumers. Besides, I know too many console gamers that think PC games mostly suck. Mind you, there is some truth to that.

    This thing has an uphill battle. But so does any new console.