Apple Bandai Pippin gaming console

Apple created the Apple Bandai Pippin gaming console in the mid-1990s, in collaboration with the Japanese company Bandai. Unfortunately, the console was a commercial failure and was discontinued in 1997 after being released in Japan and the United States in 1996.

Technical Aspects

A modified version of the Macintosh operating system powered the console, based on Apple's Power Macintosh computer line. As an alternative to Nintendo 64 and PlayStation, it was designed to provide gamers with an affordable gaming experience. In addition to its 66 MHz PowerPC 603e processor, 6 MB of RAM, a CD-ROM drive, and a modem, the Pippin had a SCSI port that allowed it to connect to the internet and other peripherals.

Its controller was a wireless trackball with a limited range; the console also supported USB and ADB peripherals, so users could connect keyboards, mice, and other devices.

Apple Bandai Pippin: Games

Only around 100 games were released for the Apple Bandai Pippin, most of which were ports of Macintosh titles. However, a few original titles were created for the console. In addition to "Super Marathon," other notable games included "Golf," "Myst," and "Dragon Ball Z: V.R.V.S.".

Due to the limited selection of games and the high price tag, the console was not popular with consumers. And, let's not forget that Apple Bandai Pippin was competing against more established and legendary gaming consoles like Nintendo 64 and PlayStation, which had larger libraries of games and were more affordable at the same time. The competition was tough!

Final Thoughts

The Apple Bandai Pippin was interesting because it combined the simplicity of a gaming console with the power of a computer. In the end, though, its high price tag and limited selection of games made it unappealing to most consumers, so it was quickly discontinued. In today's gaming world, it is remembered as an interesting footnote, and as a warning about how important it is to have a strong gaming library!