Tsukuda Original Othello Multivision

The Tsukuda Original Othello Multivision is a home video game console developed and manufactured by Tsukuda Original, a Japanese company, in collaboration with the board game company Tsukuda Original and Tsukuda's subsidiary Tsukuda America.

1. Development and Introduction: The Tsukuda Original Othello Multivision was released in 1982 as a dedicated video game console based on the popular board game Othello, also known as Reversi. The console was designed to bring the Othello experience to home users through video game technology. It was part of Tsukuda Original's efforts to expand its product lineup beyond traditional board games.

2. Hardware: The Othello Multivision featured a custom chipset developed by Tsukuda Original and Tsukuda America. It had a built-in game cartridge slot for Othello cartridges and included a built-in keyboard for input. The console also featured a single-button controller for playing Othello games. It connected to a television set through RF cables for video and audio output.

3. Game Library: The Othello Multivision launched with a selection of Othello cartridges, each containing different variations of the Othello game and additional features such as computer opponents, difficulty settings, and game modes. The cartridges were designed to offer a variety of Othello experiences to players, ranging from simple one-on-one matches to more complex challenges against AI opponents.

4. Reception and Sales: The Tsukuda Original Othello Multivision received mixed reviews upon its release. While it was praised for its faithful adaptation of the Othello board game and its multiplayer capabilities, it faced criticism for its limited game library and lack of support for other types of games. As a result, sales were relatively modest, and the console did not achieve the same level of success as other home video game consoles of the era.

5. Legacy: The Othello Multivision is remembered as a unique and niche console that catered specifically to fans of the Othello board game. While it did not have a significant impact on the video game industry as a whole, it holds a special place in the hearts of Othello enthusiasts and collectors. The console and its cartridges have become sought-after collectibles among retro gaming enthusiasts.

6. Discontinuation: Tsukuda Original discontinued the Othello Multivision in the mid-1980s as they shifted their focus to other products and markets. However, the legacy of the console lives on in the memories of those who owned and enjoyed it, and it remains a nostalgic and collectible item for enthusiasts of retro gaming and Othello.