Coleco Gemini

The Coleco Gemini
Manufacturer	Coleco
Type	Video game console
Generation	Second generation
Media	ROM cartridge
CPU	MOS 6507 @ 1.19 MHz
Memory	RAM: 128 bytes
Display	160x200, 128 Colors [1]
Controller input	Combination joystick/paddle controller
Related articles	Atari 2600

The Coleco Gemini was an Atari 2600 clone manufactured by Coleco.

Technical specifications

• Processor: 8-bit 6507
• CPU speed: 1.19 MHz
• RAM: 128 bytes
• Resolution: 160x200, 128 Colors ^[1]

History

In 1982, Coleco released Expansion Module #1 for its ColecoVision video game system using off-the-shelf components, that enabled the ColecoVision to be compatible with the Atari 2600. Atari sued Coleco for patent infringement, however a court ruled that since Coleco used off-the-shelf components and not the same components found inside an Atari 2600, the Expansion Module #1 did not infringe on Atari's patents for the 2600. With this ruling, Coleco decided to make a stand-alone Atari 2600 clone and named it the Gemini.

Gemini vs. 2600

The main difference between the Coleco Gemini and the Atari 2600 is the controller design. The Coleco Gemini controllers featured an 8-way joystick and a 270-degree paddle on the same controller (the joystick was at the top of the controller, and the paddle was at the bottom of the controller). To play paddle games, a Y-connector was used to connect two controllers to the controller jack at the same time.

The Gemini was much more compact than the large faux-woodgrain consoles sold by Atari at the time. The Gemini also had a different game included with the system. Atari was still including the Combat game released in 1977. The Gemini most commonly included Donkey Kong, but at some point also included Carnival and Mouse Trap. Sears also offered a version of the Gemini with both Donkey Kong and Mouse Trap included as separate cartridges.

Coleco struck a deal with Columbia House to start a video game club similar to its record club. Columbia sold the Coleco Gemini as the Columbia Home Arcade through the Columbia House Video Game Club. In Canada, CBS Electronics sold the Gemini under the Columbia Home Arcade name.

References

1. ^ ^{a b} OLD-COMPUTERS.COM Museum - Coleco Gemini page

External links

• vidgame.net (archived version of page)
• Video review and tour of the console