Ink Console Launches Crowdfunding in March

There are a lot of text-based games out there. I enjoy a good “choose your own adventure” experience, as well as games like Coffee Talk. Now it seems that a new device might be changing the way we enjoy Text-Based experiences from now on.

The Ink Console combines an E-Reader with a gaming console, giving interactive storytelling as you read. It will be undergoing crowdfunding via CrowdSupply starting on March 1^st. Here is what the press release says about the Ink Console:

“Independent manufacturer and creative developer Singular 9 Ltd. will be launching a CrowdSupply campaign to fund INK CONSOLE, their new open-source system for text-based games, on March 1.

INK CONSOLE is an innovative hybrid of an e-reader and a game console designed to redefine how you experience storytelling. This unique platform lets you play as you read, turning traditional reading into an interactive adventure inspired by classic computer games and choose-your-own-adventure books.

With INK CONSOLE, reading becomes dynamic: at key moments in the story, you’ll be prompted to make choices, shaping your journey based on the decisions you make along the way. And by opening our platform to others with an easy-to-use development kit, anyone can write and program their own adventures.

In addition to its approachable design, e-ink screen, and slim form factor, INK CONSOLE’s narrative interface powers new kinds of experiences. The OS features a comprehensive inventory system where you can view and manage items collected during your journey, ready to be used as challenges arise. For adventure and role-playing stories, players can turn to a health status system, adding an extra layer of strategy.”

Dana (no surname listed), founder of Ink Console commented on the inspiration behind the platform, stating: “The idea for Ink Console came from a desire to bring the magic of text adventures, like the 1980s classic Zork I, to a new audience unfamiliar with these games. I also was very inspired by the beloved Choose Your Own Adventure series of books.”

There’s a lot more info about the Ink Console on the CrowdSupply page. You can go check it out now in preparation for the March 1^st launch. It’s an interesting idea, though I’m surprised by the idea of bringing out a platform specifically for text-based experiences since it is somewhat… niche. We’ll have to see how well the crowdfunding campaign does.