Something that may interest you guys, need input...

[wiggyx]

I'm guessing that many of you have seen the console-ized MVS Neo Geos on eBay and whatnot, and possibly even the awesomely beautiful and well crafted wooden MVS units (http://www.analogueinteractive.com/). In the same vein, I am working on new casings for retro systems. I'm not taking about cheesy clear replica Xbox360 shells with a zillion LEDs and liquid cooling. What I am shooting for is a re-envisioned aesthetic for some of our favorite old-school machines!

Here's my rationale for the project:

Many of us old-school gamers are adults with "real" jobs, wives/long-term girlfriends/domestic partners, houses and kids of our own. I can't speak for all of your partners, but mine doesn't really care for the look of my bright orange N64 or the frumpiness of the Super Nintendo. Not to mention that many of us are being paid well over what we made at our minimum wage burger flipper jobs in high school, so we have some disposable income to throw at our hobby instead of having to save our allowance week-to-week, month-to-month just to afford a new "game tape".

The inconsistent design of all the various consoles is another issue I want to address. Optimally, I'd like to create new cases for as many of the older consoles as possible with a similar aesthetic in the way that various pieces of high-end stereo equipment look like they belong together.

On the other hand, some of you may want something that's closer to the other end of the spectrum. Maybe something like a prototype design that was left on the cutting room floor?

I've decided to start with the SNES mini. I've wanted one for a long time, and this gave me an excuse to make that purchase. Also, it's super compact, which gives me a lot of freedom to alter the appearance without having to make it any larger. In fact, the gutty-wuts are significantly smaller than the original plastic housing. With that in mind, I plan on a final product that's actually a fair amount more compact. I just finished mocking up the guts as a template and I'd like to get moving on a design as soon as possible.

So, I'm here to ask for your input. I know what I want, but not at all what everyone else wants and I'd like to turn this into something that gives me and my little one man design firm some extra business.

Here's what need from you:

• Crazy spaceship looking, high-design, or something else?
• What consoles would you like to see re-shelled?
• What price would you be comfortable paying for an item like this?
• Do you want extra features or not? Things like lighting, custom paint, personal logos and whatnot, etc.
• Do you want to re-case the console yourself, or have me provide a service?
• Do you want to preserve the original state of the internals? I.e. Do you want to be able to easily slap the guts back into the original shell, or are you interested in something that has been modified to fit into a vastly different casing, or has repositioned switches, or whatever?
• Are you even interested in this idea at all?

Here's a concept that I mocked up over the last couple of days. Again, I would love to hear your opinions, good or bad. I want to create a product that appeals to as many people as possible, obviously. Here's your chance to have a say in what a product like this could look like, how it performs, what options are available, etc. So speak up!








Thanks,
wiggy

[theclaw]

I'd like seeing concepts for 2 slot MVS drawn up. Something simple yet improves dust protection (SNK metal covers leave areas exposed since they're supposed to be kept out-of-sight in arcade cabs). That also clearly speaks "console" at first glance. No goofiness.

As if an alternate history where AES had never even been conceived, and SNK was foolhardy enough to attempt competing mass market directly SNES/Genesis despite the steep Neo Geo price point.

2 slot's bulk has long been a barrier to neat design. Most efforts at looking good focus on the more compact single slot boards.
Maybe sliding cart slot cover like Master System II? Door flaps could work but I'm not sure how well at that size. The number of I/O ports is an issue too. 2 slot has headphone jacks, controller ports, mem card slot, JAMMA edge...

I don't think more than about $300 at most is much appeal to me. Prefer not to have to mod the board to get it into a case. Keeping it basic would improve my chances at being able to install myself.

[wiggyx]

I'd like seeing concepts for 2 slot MVS drawn up. Something simple yet improves dust protection (SNK metal covers leave areas exposed since they're supposed to be kept out-of-sight in arcade cabs). That also clearly speaks "console" at first glance. No goofiness.

As if an alternate history where AES had never even been conceived, and SNK was foolhardy enough to attempt competing mass market directly SNES/Genesis despite the steep Neo Geo price point.

2 slot's bulk has long been a barrier to neat design. Most efforts at looking good focus on the more compact single slot boards.
Maybe sliding cart slot cover like Master System II? Door flaps could work but I'm not sure how well at that size. The number of I/O ports is an issue too. 2 slot has headphone jacks, controller ports, mem card slot, JAMMA edge...

I don't think more than about $300 at most is much appeal to me. Prefer not to have to mod the board to get it into a case. Keeping it basic would improve my chances at being able to install myself.

MVS units are literally next in line after the SNES mini, so keep an eye out

Ports and whatnot aren't a huge issue. I can find a way to design around them, even if it means a flip up/down door to hide them when not in use. I can even extend ports to another area if need be with a little work. I know they're a bit trickier than a traditional console, nothing is really out of the realm of possibility. Will it be bulkier than a 1-slot? For sure, but that doesn't mean it can't look good!

I've really been leaning towards a simple plug-n-play design initially, like you're describing. I personally have little desire to mod the crap out of dozens of old boards, and it's not something that everyone else can and/or is willing to do. If I have some success with this project, then maybe I'll end up doing some "special edition" cases that are more complex and require hardware modification, but it's not really where I wanted to start.

Thanks for the reply!

[SpaceHarrier]

I really like the 2nd to last SNES box (white one). Simple, yet stylish.

[stalepie]

(delete)

[stalepie]

(deleted) never mind..

[Cornelius]

Neat idea, but realistically not something I'd be likely to ever spend money on. Gotta save the cash for teh gaemz.

That said, my preference would be for a standardized set. By that I mean a single form factor for all my classics. I think the simplicity and size of the Wii is very attractive, so having an NES, SNES, N64, and Wii all in that same form factor would be pretty slick. Maybe something similar with the Sega line.

[TonyTheTiger]

Many of us old-school gamers are adults with "real" jobs

Quit braggin'.

wives/long-term girlfriends/domestic partners, houses and kids of our own.

many of us are being paid well over what we made at our minimum wage burger flipper jobs

You just really want to hurt me.

So, I'm here to ask for your input. I know what I want, but not at all what everyone else wants

I think overall I'd like to see some of the proto designs come to life. While the sleek AV Equipment designs are pleasing in a non-intrusive way, they also lack character. But then again I'm a traditionalist in that I'm not a big fan of extensive modding.

[G-Boobie]

You're exceptionally talented, Wiggyx. I like everything you've posted, but especially the black and purple SNES. When you get an MVS system into production, I'm just gonna go ahead and mail you my wallet. I'm serious. If you get an MVS system with RGB out in a nice, sleek, slot-protected format, we're in business. I'm not picky about the guts: just so long as they work, I'm cool.

What kind of manufacturing process are you using for the plastics?

[Edmond Dantes]

I dunno about "re-shelling" consoles... I kinda like them the way they are...

But one thing I personally would like is a Gameboy Advance (or a GBA SP) in a shell that closely approximates the original Gameboy's size, thickness, and screen size. The SP works if you put handlebars on it, but while playing some games (such as Operation C) I find sometimes its too easy to press the wrong direction because of how small the d-pad is. And, uh, yeah... needing HANDLE BARS to make it comfortable.

[wiggyx]

I really like the 2nd to last SNES box (white one). Simple, yet stylish.

Thanks!

Neat idea, but realistically not something I'd be likely to ever spend money on. Gotta save the cash for teh gaemz.

That said, my preference would be for a standardized set. By that I mean a single form factor for all my classics. I think the simplicity and size of the Wii is very attractive, so having an NES, SNES, N64, and Wii all in that same form factor would be pretty slick. Maybe something similar with the Sega line.

, I hear ya.

That's exactly the plan that I've been concocting. Shared forms would really help tie a collection together IMO.

Quit braggin'.



You just really want to hurt me.

I think overall I'd like to see some of the proto designs come to life. While the sleek AV Equipment designs are pleasing in a non-intrusive way, they also lack character. But then again I'm a traditionalist in that I'm not a big fan of extensive modding.

The line has been pretty split along "high design" and "protos come to life".

All of those protos would take a lot of work. 45° cart slots, pop-up cart slots, shoving a PS1 and SNES into a single box and figuring out some sort of front loading door mechanism, etc. They can be done, but it'll require a lot more work (and thus more $$$).

You're exceptionally talented, Wiggyx. I like everything you've posted, but especially the black and purple SNES. When you get an MVS system into production, I'm just gonna go ahead and mail you my wallet. I'm serious. If you get an MVS system with RGB out in a nice, sleek, slot-protected format, we're in business. I'm not picky about the guts: just so long as they work, I'm cool.

What kind of manufacturing process are you using for the plastics?

Thanks!

! I'll definitely make sure to keep you all clued in as far as new products go. I think the MVS is really going to be the big seller since there's no such thing as an existing MVS console, having one custom made is really the ONLY option and I'd like to try and provide the best option possible as far as looks and ease of use are concerned.

I'm not 100% sure on what materials or processes I'll be using at this point. I have ideas, but until I consult with the company that will be doing the manufacturing next week, I can't be sure. This isn't something that I'll be having large gang molds made for any time soon, if ever. It'll end up being a low volume process no matter what, whether that means 3D printing, silicone molds, etc. Once I have some prices I'll make some choices based on price, fit and finish, and turn around time. I will definitely be posting updates here as they happen

I dunno about "re-shelling" consoles... I kinda like them the way they are...

But one thing I personally would like is a Gameboy Advance (or a GBA SP) in a shell that closely approximates the original Gameboy's size, thickness, and screen size. The SP works if you put handlebars on it, but while playing some games (such as Operation C) I find sometimes its too easy to press the wrong direction because of how small the d-pad is. And, uh, yeah... needing HANDLE BARS to make it comfortable.

It's not gonna be for everyone, and I totally understand that.

As far as the GBA goes, if there's enough demand for something like that, then I'll most definitely explore it. I've started with the SNES mini mostly because I know the SNES has a very strong following and because the mini is about the simplest console to re-shell that I can think of. There's like 9 screws that hold everything together and ANYONE could easily swap the internals into another shell with zero tech or mechanical knowledge. In fact, my mother and wife will be my lead testers when it comes time to write up instructions for the swap. Neither of them are at all suited for the job. If I can get them do do the swap without much fuss, then ANY of you guys should be able to do so without an once of effort or thought.

[Parodius Duh!]

Awesome idea. Id really like to see a new genesis/sega cd Unit that combines both hardware pieces into a single unit BUT in a stacked form instead of it being all lengthy like an X Eye or combo....

[ApolloBoy]

This would be a great alternative for systems that have cracked or otherwise mangled cases too. I also think it'd be great if these cases had some modding potential, like say if you wanted to add S-video or standard RCA jacks.

[Aussie2B]

Hey, what about those of us that ARE the women in our relationships? :P I have no problem with the aesthetics of my consoles, but I might be interested in a shell for a MVS 2-slot. We're planning on rebuilding it, and we'll have to do something about the housing. Although we're more interested in something that's functional and decent looking, rather than something that's super fancy and mega expensive.

[wiggyx]

Awesome idea. Id really like to see a new genesis/sega cd Unit that combines both hardware pieces into a single unit BUT in a stacked form instead of it being all lengthy like an X Eye or combo....

That's entirely doable I can get enough support to warrant putting something like that together. A lot of people have expressed interest in combined units. Stuff as simple as the Neptune combo all the way up to a functional SNES/Playstation (working SNES and PS1 in a shell like the concept build above). It can all be done, but the price for items like that will be FAR greater. A lot more than a simple shell swap.

If there's enough demand, I'll make it happen

This would be a great alternative for systems that have cracked or otherwise mangled cases too. I also think it'd be great if these cases had some modding potential, like say if you wanted to add S-video or standard RCA jacks.

Adding pop-outs or variant rear/face plates for that sort of thing would be a snap! When I move on to consoles like the CMVS, then I'll really put some thought and research into what additional options I should consider offering spots for and how to implicate such things.

Hey, what about those of us that ARE the women in our relationships? :P I have no problem with the aesthetics of my consoles, but I might be interested in a shell for a MVS 2-slot. We're planning on rebuilding it, and we'll have to do something about the housing. Although we're more interested in something that's functional and decent looking, rather than something that's super fancy and mega expensive.

For the gamer couple, may I suggest his and hers custom consoles? I will gladly offer package pricing

Lemme guess, mounted to a plastic cutting board with just the metal/plastic shroud that came with it? I see 'em all the time and I've even build a few that way myself. It's cheap and it works. Puts a nasty strain on the eye though. Gotta keep those bad boys behind closed doors. Nobody but the most hardcore gamer is gonna want to take a look at something like that. I know I keep mine shoved away in a closed door bookcase :P

Functional and good looking are pretty much goal number 1. I want these to be affordable, desirable, and useful above all else.


This is really helpful feedback guys AND gals, thanks! Keep the comments coming. It only serves to help ensure a product better suited to your needs and wants

[kedawa]

I just use my PC.

[wiggyx]

How about a PC case that looks like a TurboGrafx? :P

[kedawa]

That could be interesting.

[shadowkn55]

You're exceptionally talented, Wiggyx. I like everything you've posted, but especially the black and purple SNES. When you get an MVS system into production, I'm just gonna go ahead and mail you my wallet. I'm serious. If you get an MVS system with RGB out in a nice, sleek, slot-protected format, we're in business. I'm not picky about the guts: just so long as they work, I'm cool.

What kind of manufacturing process are you using for the plastics?

I have exactly what you're looking for. I made an aes-style cmvs system that outputs it all (composite, s-video, component, and rgb). Made from scratch using custom molded plastic.

[kedawa]

That looks amazing. The style and materials look dead on.

[theclaw]

Oooh. Hope is not lost for my beast.

[wiggyx]

Despite beeing quite ill this week, I made a little progress.

Created info label for the bottom of the system and got a price quote. They'll be silver foil stickers just like on the original units

Meeting on Monday with manufacturer at about noon, Eastern Standard time. I should have at least an idea about pricing at that point.

Looking at prices for wireless controller parts. I don't really want to redesign controllers since it would be extra work, extra $$$, and sorta pointless since the SNES controller is such an excellent design in the 1st place. If I do, it won't be a "re-design" so much as a revision that would allow me to more easily pack wireless bits inside and mount points for a discreet on/off switch & LED indicator.


I will be offering S-Video and SCART upgrades to those that are interested. The parts are cheap, and I'll save headache by pre-wiring "kits" so that I can just slap em in without having to measure wire length and whatnot for every unit that I mod. *110% worth it IMO.

Not much else going on. New rendering software doesn't like my video card. So no new renders yet. Gonna pull out the old PC and try on it instead.

More to come...

[Clownzilla]

How about a PC case that looks like a TurboGrafx? :P

In all seriousness I have always thought a "consolized" computer would be a great idea. A computer that is designed from the ground up as a console system similar to you above designs. Just don't install software or you might have some legal issues

[wiggyx]

Didn't somebody try and bring something like that to the market in the late 90s/early 00s? I feel like there was an article in EGM at some point...


I think it's a great idea, but might be tough to pull off. I don't know much, if anything, about PC gaming. I do know that the really hardcore guys like to build some wild towers with all sorts of custom bits. I wonder if there's a market for what amounts to a custom PC enclosure that appears more like a console or piece of A/V equipment. Hell, that's basically what the original Xbox was.

From a technical standpoint, it would be a piece of cake to model something like that up. PC boards, graphics cards, optical and hard drives share pretty similar sizes and dimensions and most everything can be connected via ribbon cables, so as long as there's room and a spot for each piece of harware in the box, getting everything connected shouldn't take much work at all.

It's definitely something that I'll put on my list of possibilities. I know I'd love something like that. Having a standard looking black tower in my entertainment center isn't preferable, but that's what works at the moment.

[wiggyx]

Had a great meeting with the manufacturer today! This project seems entirely doable on almost any scale, whether I sell 5 or 5,000 ;D Material choices ended up being a lot more plentiful than expected. Here's a little teaser...























Of course plastics are still in as well.

So, I need to crank out a complete assembly of parts (what you guys are looking at was build as one, solid chunk for appearance purposes). I hope you guys are as excited as I am! If all goes well, I should have the 1st prototype in my hands in about 2-3 weeks, tops.

Once I have some prices sorted out, I'll probably build a kickstarter page. I don't need a big startup fund, but it would help me create a far more complete product (packaging, website, etc.). I'm thinking polished aluminum and purple heart for the $1,000 donation mark...