ICade
Encyclopedia
The iCade is an accessory
for the Apple iPad
line of devices which functions as a miniaturised, portable arcade cabinet, including a physical joystick
and buttons. The iPad is inserted into the iCade and connects to the device using Bluetooth
, allowing it to be used as an arcade
-style controller for compatible games.
or an AC adapter. It is also possible to run an iPad docking cable through the underside of the iCade, in order to charge the iPad during play.
Internally, the iCade is essentially a Bluetooth keyboard
—the joystick and buttons are simply mapped to 24 different standard keys. Since the iPad natively supports Bluetooth keyboards, it is able to receive inputs from the iCade without any requirement for special software beyond games designed to respond to the inputs that the iCade sends. This system also allows other Bluetooth input devices, such as the iControlPad
, to use the same protocol in order to control applications designed for iCade.
on April 1, 2010 as an April Fools' Day
prank, however, it was widely covered in electronics media as a potential product, and ThinkGeek responded to this speculation, saying a real iCade was "a possibility". The April Fools' iCade was stated to connect via the standard Apple dock connector, which was noted as a potential blocker for release due to licensing fees and restrictions placed on dock connections by Apple.
Shortly after the revelation of the iCade gag product, ThinkGeek were contacted privately by ION Audio, with a proposal to develop the concept. ThinkGeek and ION staff worked in tandem on the project, and were able to secure support from Atari
, rightsholders to a large catalogue of arcade games. Thus, a working iCade, produced by ION Audio, was demonstrated running 1979 arcade title Asteroids at the Consumer Electronics Show
in January 2011, with a projected release in "late spring". This version replaced the dock connection with a wireless Bluetooth one, sidestepping potential issues, and the completed device was released on ThinkGeek on June 27, 2011.
ION Audio provides a document which covers the information necessary to add iCade support to applications. This document also includes guidelines for acceptance from Apple, such as avoiding references to the "iCade" name. In addition, iOS app developer Stuart Carnie, of Manomio, has freely released an unofficial SDK
, which application authors can use to speed up implementation of iCade controls. Outside of iOS development, a library has been made available for adding iCade support to Adobe Flash
games.
called it "an attractive, capable piece of hardware that does exactly what you want it to do." IGN
referred to the iCade as "surprisingly functional", saying it was "certain to please" its target market. TouchArcade felt it was "an absolute must-have iPad accessory for the serious retro gamer." In Engadget
's coverage, the accessory was described as "well constructed" and "an awesome addition to your gaming collection."
Feelings about the iCade's controls have been mixed to positive. IGN described the joystick and buttons "responsive", however, noted the input configuration was "a little cramped, but not unbearably so." Ars Technica's reviewer, Ben Kuchera, felt the joystick was "a little looser than [he] would prefer" and the buttons "require[d] a heavy finger to push", but said the controls "held up under [his] heavy hand". TouchArcade praised the buttons, finding them "exactly like those that you'd find on an old Defender cabinet."
The widest criticism for the device has been the small library of compatible software, with many early reviews drawing attention to the fact that only one iCade-compatible title, Atari's Greatest Hits, was available at launch. While speaking positively about the hardware, CrunchReview felt the limited software availability made the device a "one trick pony". IGN opined that "you'd have to be a pretty passionate Lunar Lander
, Centipede
, or Missile Command
fan to not feel disappointed that there isn't more to play on your new $99 iCade."
and Taito
has released their respective versions: the "Atari Arcade" and the "Invadercade". The Atari Arcade connects through a standard dock connector instead of through Bluetooth. The Atari Arcade only works with the Atari’s Greatest Hits app which offers 99 games for $10, although it has been criticized as having flimsy controls. Taito's Space Invader themed Invadercade functions as a charger while the iPad is plugged into it. Additionally, the Invadercade has built in speakers and a dedicated volume knob, and can function as a general media center with its iTunes and internet radio functionality. Compatible with both the iPad and iPad 2, the Invadercade similarly requires the Taito's Space Invaders HD app to run.
IPad accessories
The iPad has a wide variety of accessories made by Apple available for it, including a screen cover specifically for the iPad 2 called Smart Cover, as well as a number of accessories to allow the iPad to connect to other devices, some of which enable non-touch screen input.-Smart Cover:The Smart...
for the Apple iPad
IPad
The iPad is a line of tablet computers designed, developed and marketed by Apple Inc., primarily as a platform for audio-visual media including books, periodicals, movies, music, games, and web content. The iPad was introduced on January 27, 2010 by Apple's then-CEO Steve Jobs. Its size and...
line of devices which functions as a miniaturised, portable arcade cabinet, including a physical joystick
Joystick
A joystick is an input device consisting of a stick that pivots on a base and reports its angle or direction to the device it is controlling. Joysticks, also known as 'control columns', are the principal control in the cockpit of many civilian and military aircraft, either as a center stick or...
and buttons. The iPad is inserted into the iCade and connects to the device using Bluetooth
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a proprietary open wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances from fixed and mobile devices, creating personal area networks with high levels of security...
, allowing it to be used as an arcade
Arcade game
An arcade game is a coin-operated entertainment machine, usually installed in public businesses such as restaurants, bars, and amusement arcades. Most arcade games are video games, pinball machines, electro-mechanical games, redemption games, and merchandisers...
-style controller for compatible games.
Overview
The iCade's input devices include an 8-way ball-top joystick and eight digital buttons. When placed inside the iCade, the iPad is positioned vertically, while a groove behind the inputs accommodates landscape-mode play. On the front of the device is a "coin slot", which lights up to show that the iCade is powered on, and flashes when its batteries are running low. Power can be sourced from either two AA batteriesAA battery
An AA battery is a standard size of battery. Batteries of this size are the most commonly used type of in portable electronic devices. An AA battery is composed of a single electrochemical cell...
or an AC adapter. It is also possible to run an iPad docking cable through the underside of the iCade, in order to charge the iPad during play.
Internally, the iCade is essentially a Bluetooth keyboard
Computer keyboard
In computing, a keyboard is a typewriter-style keyboard, which uses an arrangement of buttons or keys, to act as mechanical levers or electronic switches...
—the joystick and buttons are simply mapped to 24 different standard keys. Since the iPad natively supports Bluetooth keyboards, it is able to receive inputs from the iCade without any requirement for special software beyond games designed to respond to the inputs that the iCade sends. This system also allows other Bluetooth input devices, such as the iControlPad
IControlPad
The iControlPad is a wireless game controller compatible with a variety of smartphones, tablets, and personal computers. It is designed for use as either a standalone gamepad or attached to appropriately sized devices, such as the iPhone, using a clamp system...
, to use the same protocol in order to control applications designed for iCade.
Development
The iCade was originally announced by ThinkGeekThinkGeek
ThinkGeek is an American online retailer that caters to computer enthusiasts and other "geeky" social groups. Their merchandise includes clothing, electronic and scientific gadgets, unusual computer peripherals, office toys, pet toys, child toys, and caffeinated drinks and candy...
on April 1, 2010 as an April Fools' Day
April Fools' Day
April Fools' Day is celebrated in different countries around the world on April 1 every year. Sometimes referred to as All Fools' Day, April 1 is not a national holiday, but is widely recognized and celebrated as a day when many people play all kinds of jokes and foolishness...
prank, however, it was widely covered in electronics media as a potential product, and ThinkGeek responded to this speculation, saying a real iCade was "a possibility". The April Fools' iCade was stated to connect via the standard Apple dock connector, which was noted as a potential blocker for release due to licensing fees and restrictions placed on dock connections by Apple.
Shortly after the revelation of the iCade gag product, ThinkGeek were contacted privately by ION Audio, with a proposal to develop the concept. ThinkGeek and ION staff worked in tandem on the project, and were able to secure support from Atari
Atari
Atari is a corporate and brand name owned by several entities since its inception in 1972. It is currently owned by Atari Interactive, a wholly owned subsidiary of the French publisher Atari, SA . The original Atari, Inc. was founded in 1972 by Nolan Bushnell and Ted Dabney. It was a pioneer in...
, rightsholders to a large catalogue of arcade games. Thus, a working iCade, produced by ION Audio, was demonstrated running 1979 arcade title Asteroids at the Consumer Electronics Show
Consumer Electronics Show
The International Consumer Electronics Show is a major technology-related trade show held each January in the Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada, United States. Not open to the public, the Consumer Electronics Association-sponsored show typically hosts previews of products and new...
in January 2011, with a projected release in "late spring". This version replaced the dock connection with a wireless Bluetooth one, sidestepping potential issues, and the completed device was released on ThinkGeek on June 27, 2011.
ION Audio provides a document which covers the information necessary to add iCade support to applications. This document also includes guidelines for acceptance from Apple, such as avoiding references to the "iCade" name. In addition, iOS app developer Stuart Carnie, of Manomio, has freely released an unofficial SDK
Software development kit
A software development kit is typically a set of software development tools that allows for the creation of applications for a certain software package, software framework, hardware platform, computer system, video game console, operating system, or similar platform.It may be something as simple...
, which application authors can use to speed up implementation of iCade controls. Outside of iOS development, a library has been made available for adding iCade support to Adobe Flash
Adobe Flash
Adobe Flash is a multimedia platform used to add animation, video, and interactivity to web pages. Flash is frequently used for advertisements, games and flash animations for broadcast...
games.
App Store
| Title | Developer | Release date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minotaur Rescue Minotaur Rescue Minotaur Rescue is an arcade game for the iOS platform developed by Jeff Minter and Ivan Zorzin of Llamasoft. It was Llamasoft's first iOS game. Minotaur Rescue is an abbreviated title used within the App Store; the full title of the game, as shown on the title screen, is Solar Minotaur Rescue... |
Llamasoft | 5 Jan 2011 | Supported since version 1.02. |
| Minotron: 2112 Minotron: 2112 Minotron: 2112 is a video game for the iOS platform written by Jeff Minter and Ivan Zorzin of Llamasoft. It is a remade mobile version of the classic Llamatron for the Atari ST and Commodore Amiga, which itself was an updated version of the arcade machine Robotron: 2084... |
Llamasoft | 2 Mar 2011 | Supported since version 1.01. |
| Atari's Greatest Hits | Atari Atari Atari is a corporate and brand name owned by several entities since its inception in 1972. It is currently owned by Atari Interactive, a wholly owned subsidiary of the French publisher Atari, SA . The original Atari, Inc. was founded in 1972 by Nolan Bushnell and Ted Dabney. It was a pioneer in... |
06 Apr 2011 | Supported since launch. |
| Compression HD | Little White Bear Studios | 17 May 2010 | Supported since version 1.3. |
| HungryMaster | xionchannel | 02 Jul 2011 | Supported since version 1.12. |
| IronStar Arena | Appracatappra | 06 May 2011 | Supported since version 02.00. |
| Mos Speedrun | Physmo | 06 Apr 2011 | Supported since version 1.4. |
| Sideways Racing | Bjango | 23 May 2011 | Supported since version 1.0.2. |
| Velocispider | Retro Dreamer | 31 May 2011 | Supported since version 1.2. |
| Warblade HD | EMV Software AS | 11 Aug 2011 | Supported since version 1.46.2. |
| Match Panic | Chaotic Box | 09 Aug 2011 | Supported since version 1.1. |
| GoatUp GoatUp GoatUp is an arcade platform game for iOS devices developed by Jeff Minter and Ivan Zorzin of Llamasoft and published via the Apple App Store. It is the first platform game ever produced by Llamasoft, and takes inspiration from other successful iOS games such as Doodle Jump, Icy Tower, and Heads... |
Llamasoft | 13 Sept 2011 | Supported since version 1.01. |
Jailbroken apps
| Title | Developer | Release date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| iMAME4All | David Valdeita | 16 Aug 2010 | Supported since version 1.7. |
App Store
| Title | Developer | Release date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commodore 64 | Manomio | 05 Sep 2009 | Support expected in next update. |
| iAmiga | Manomio | TBA | Support expected at launch. |
| No Gravity | Realtech VR | 24 Mar 2011 | Support expected in next update. |
Reception
The reception to the iCade itself has been mostly positive. Ars TechnicaArs Technica
Ars Technica is a technology news and information website created by Ken Fisher and Jon Stokes in 1998. It publishes news, reviews and guides on issues such as computer hardware and software, science, technology policy, and video games. Ars Technica is known for its features, long articles that go...
called it "an attractive, capable piece of hardware that does exactly what you want it to do." IGN
IGN
IGN is an entertainment website that focuses on video games, films, music and other media. IGN's main website comprises several specialty sites or "channels", each occupying a subdomain and covering a specific area of entertainment...
referred to the iCade as "surprisingly functional", saying it was "certain to please" its target market. TouchArcade felt it was "an absolute must-have iPad accessory for the serious retro gamer." In Engadget
Engadget
Engadget is a multilingual technology blog network with daily coverage of gadgets and consumer electronics. Though on appearance Engadget functions much like a blog and may be defined as such, much of its editorial content takes the form of an online magazine...
's coverage, the accessory was described as "well constructed" and "an awesome addition to your gaming collection."
Feelings about the iCade's controls have been mixed to positive. IGN described the joystick and buttons "responsive", however, noted the input configuration was "a little cramped, but not unbearably so." Ars Technica's reviewer, Ben Kuchera, felt the joystick was "a little looser than [he] would prefer" and the buttons "require[d] a heavy finger to push", but said the controls "held up under [his] heavy hand". TouchArcade praised the buttons, finding them "exactly like those that you'd find on an old Defender cabinet."
The widest criticism for the device has been the small library of compatible software, with many early reviews drawing attention to the fact that only one iCade-compatible title, Atari's Greatest Hits, was available at launch. While speaking positively about the hardware, CrunchReview felt the limited software availability made the device a "one trick pony". IGN opined that "you'd have to be a pretty passionate Lunar Lander
Lunar Lander (arcade game)
Lunar Lander is an arcade game released by Atari, Inc. in 1979, which uses a vector monitor to display vector graphics. Although not particularly successful, a vector-graphics generator was the impetus of Atari's most successful coin-operated game: Asteroids. The object of the game is to pilot a...
, Centipede
Centipede (video game)
Centipede is a vertically-oriented shoot 'em up arcade game produced by Atari, Inc. in 1980. The game was designed by Ed Logg along with Dona Bailey, one of the few female game programmers in the industry at this time. It was also the first arcade coin-operated game to have a significant female...
, or Missile Command
Missile Command
Missile Command is a 1980 arcade game by Atari, Inc. that was also licensed to Sega for European release. It is considered one of the most notable games from the Golden Age of Video Arcade Games...
fan to not feel disappointed that there isn't more to play on your new $99 iCade."
Spin offs
Following the iCade AtariAtari
Atari is a corporate and brand name owned by several entities since its inception in 1972. It is currently owned by Atari Interactive, a wholly owned subsidiary of the French publisher Atari, SA . The original Atari, Inc. was founded in 1972 by Nolan Bushnell and Ted Dabney. It was a pioneer in...
and Taito
Taito
Taito may mean:*Taito Corporation, a Japanese developer of video game software and arcade hardware*Taito, Tokyo, a special ward located in Tokyo, Japan*Taito, also known as matai, paramount chiefs according to Fa'a Samoa...
has released their respective versions: the "Atari Arcade" and the "Invadercade". The Atari Arcade connects through a standard dock connector instead of through Bluetooth. The Atari Arcade only works with the Atari’s Greatest Hits app which offers 99 games for $10, although it has been criticized as having flimsy controls. Taito's Space Invader themed Invadercade functions as a charger while the iPad is plugged into it. Additionally, the Invadercade has built in speakers and a dedicated volume knob, and can function as a general media center with its iTunes and internet radio functionality. Compatible with both the iPad and iPad 2, the Invadercade similarly requires the Taito's Space Invaders HD app to run.