The news we’ve been waiting for has finally arrived. Following the initial announcement that the iconic vector display console would return in miniature form, Vectrex has dropped the essential details regarding its upcoming Kickstarter campaign—and they come with a time-sensitive deadline and a price tag that positions the device as a high-end collectible.
If you’re keen to secure one of the most technically ambitious mini-consoles ever released, clear your calendar for next month.
The Vectrex Mini countdown starts in November
The Vectrex Mini Kickstarter campaign is officially set to go live on Monday, November 3, 2025.
Crucially, the team has provided a global launch time, so you’ll know exactly when to hit the ‘Back this project’ button:
- 4 PM Paris (FR)
- 10 AM New York
- 7 AM Los Angeles
- 0:00 Tokyo (Tuesday, November 4)
Given the cult status of the original Vectrex, which stood alone in the early 80s with its unique vector graphics monitor, anticipation for this miniature recreation is high. Expect the initial early bird tiers to vanish quickly.
The price of vector purity
The inevitable question of price has been answered, and the Vectrex Mini sits firmly at the premium end of the mini-console market, reflecting the complexity of faithfully recreating that vector display.
The regular estimated price for the console, excluding taxes and shipping, is:
- €159
- $185
- ¥28,250
(Curiously, no UK price is specified.)
For that price, the standard package is substantial: the Vectrex Mini console, a Bluetooth controller, 12 built-in games, 12 mini overlays (essential for that classic vector look), and customisation stickers. While it’s certainly higher than most off-the-shelf plug-and-play competitors, the cost seems justified by the unique technology and the effort to include a full set of overlays for the initial 12 titles.
The Vectrex team is currently working to minimise both tax and shipping costs, a crucial detail for a crowdfunding project that requires international logistics.
The killer feature: Modern controller for vintage hardware
While the new console itself is the main draw, the announced merchandise includes a technical feature that will have original Vectrex owners digging through their attics.
The optional, separately purchased Vectrex Mini controller—which uses Bluetooth for the mini console—will also include a dongle that allows it to connect to the original Vectrex console. This is huge. It means owners of the 1982 machine can finally upgrade from the notoriously cumbersome original controller to a modern, wireless equivalent. This add-on instantly transforms the project from a simple collector’s item to an essential utility for the hardcore Vectrex community.
Other merchandise includes:
- Four exclusive T-shirt designs (featuring console art, Vectrex-style Superman, Minestorm, and Spike).
- A collector’s book written by Douglas Alves.
The countdown is on. If PIKO and Coleco have managed to raise the bar on premium hardware with their new mini arcades, the Vectrex Mini looks set to push the boundaries of what a retro revival can be. Just ensure you’re ready to pledge on time to avoid disappointment.
Follow the Vectrex Mini Kickstarter now to get alerts for the project’s launch.
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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.
