Vectrex has issued details for the upcoming Vectrex Mini Kickstarter, which will launch in early November 2025. We know so far that two devices are planned — but what can we expect?
UPDATE: September 26th, 2025
Further details and images of the Vectrex Mini have been published. We now know that the display will be 800×600 pixels, and the system processor is an ESP32. This makes the Vectrex Mini ideal for original games (the selection is still set to be announced) and any Vectrex revival titles and other arcade games of its era. However, it will not be suited to emulating many later platforms.
No decision has yet been made over video out — it will be either USB-C or HDMI.
UPDATE: September 10th, 2025
Vectrex has announced that the Vectrex Mini Kickstarter will launch on November 3rd, 2025.
Additionally, three dates have been announced where the mini console prototypes can be viewed and used:
- Play Expo Blackpool, England (October 4-5, 2025)
- Portland Retro Gaming Expo, Oregon, USA (October 17-19, 2025)
- Paris Games Week, France (October 30 – November 2, 2025)
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First and foremost, we can expect the console, accessories, and merchandising. The mini console will also be available with early bird prices, limited to so many devices, aiming to give the project a strong early momentum.
“The Vectrex Mini will not support cartridges — a major shift from the original.”
Standard pricing is planned at 149 euros, which is about $175, with shipping fees determined by location. As I mentioned, there is an early bird price, of just 99 euros, so if you get in early you can grab a bargain.
Meanwhile, the limited edition console in white has the same features as the main model, but with a certificate of authenticity and a unique serial number. We previously reported that it will be limited to 200 units, with a higher price.
What Is the Vectrex Mini?
The original Vectrex (1982) was a revolutionary vector graphics console with its own built-in CRT display. Now, more than 40 years later, it’s being revived in Mini form — a nostalgic but modernized version designed for collectors and retro fans.
Vectrex Mini Key Specs
- Half-scale body compared to the 1982 original
- 5-inch AMOLED display
- Wireless controllers (rechargeable)
- 12 built-in games included
- microSD slot for additional titles
- Early bird price starts at around $115 (standard models higher)
- White Limited Edition available at $250
Kickstarter Launch & Pricing
The Kickstarter campaign for the Vectrex Mini begins November 3, 2025. Early bird pricing is set at approximately $115 USD, while a special White Limited Edition will retail for around $250 USD.
Collectors can expect stretch goals and potential add-ons to be announced as the campaign develops.
Extra features of the Vectrex Mini
If you’ve been following the news about the Vectrex Mini, you’ll know this mini console has a 5-inch display, video output, and a USB-C port for power supply. It also has a microSD slot. The console comes with 12 pre-installed games, along with overlays. The original Vectrex used screen overlays to add a new dimension to the gameplay, and while such static graphical improvements are no longer required, the support and inclusion of these pieces of plastic adds to the Vectrex Mini’s nostalgia.
It will also include stickers for customizing the console to a regional variant!
What’s particularly interesting about the Kickstarter news is that Vectrex have shared some of the features they’ve added. As well as being a mini console, Vectrex Mini Arcade System will also display the date and time, weather (via Wi-Fi), and work as an alarm if required. This gives it a life on your shelf or desk even if you’re not playing games.
Vectrex Mini accessories and merch unveiled
So, what about those accessories and merchandise?
Vectrex is offering an additional controller into the mix, available for multiplayer games. Particularly intriguing is that it will include a Bluetooth dongle with a port connection for use with an original Vectrex!
A book is also in development, telling the story of the Vectrex. And a quartet of t-shirt designs will be included in the Vectrex Kickstarter when it launches in November.
Learn more about the Kickstarter on the Vectrex website.
FAQ
Q: When does the Vectrex Mini Kickstarter start?
A: The Kickstarter campaign is set to launch on November 3, 2025.
Q: Will the Vectrex Mini support original cartridges?
A: No — according to the official Vectrex site and Kickstarter materials, the Mini does not include a cartridge slot; it will come with 12 built-in games and support for additional games via microSD.
Q: What makes the Vectrex Mini visually different from the original Vectrex?
A: Rather than a vintage CRT vector monitor, the Mini uses a modern AMOLED screen, which aims to emulate vector lines but cannot perfectly replicate the original vector phosphor glow.
(Images: Vectrex)
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Christian Cawley is a writer and editor who covers consumer electronics, IT, and entertainment media. He has written for publications such as Computer Weekly, Linux Format, MakeUseOf.com, and Tech Radar.
He also produces podcasts, has a cigar box guitar, and of course, loves retro gaming.