VEC3x – Laser-Powered Vector Gaming Console
VEC3x is a custom-built game console I wrote, that brings vector-style arcade gaming into the physical world using laser projection technology. Originally designed as an MVP for an XR platform, the system has evolved into a standalone console with real hardware, tools for developers, and support for public outdoor gaming events.
🚀 Project Overview
VEC3x is a laser-based vector game console that:
- Plays custom-designed vector-style games
- Emulates 20+ classic Vectrex titles
- Projects graphics onto walls, water, sails, or any large surface
- Supports up to 4 players via smartphone that act as controllers
- Provides a full development environment for creating new laser-based games
🛠️ System Architecture
1. Laser Display System
- Uses a professional ILDA-compatible laser projector
- Real-time vector rendering via USB DAC and custom ILDA interface
- Supports both indoor and outdoor use
- Projects on buildings, sails, water surfaces, fog, etc.
2. Linux-Based Handheld Console
- Runs a custom vector game engine
- Outputs optimized point data for laser projection
- Compact, with Wi-Fi and USB connectivity
3. Smartphone Multiplayer Interface
- Up to 4 smartphones connect via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
🎮 Game Engine and SDK
The VEC3x engine is built from the ground up for laser vector output:
- Optimized vector path ordering (minimizes blanking and mirror jitter)
- Intensity modulation for glow and fade effects
- Frame generation: ~60 vector paths @ 30 FPS
- Real-time USB DAC output and ILDA streaming
Development Tools
- Desktop game simulator
- Live code reload over LAN
- C/C++ SDK with full access to hardware
Included Games
- Laser Pong (with water projection mode)
- Laser Chess (player vs. computer or player)
- Vector Breakout (multiplayer)
- Star Castle-style shooter
- Vectrex emulator with support for 20+ original games
⚙️ Hardware Details
| Component | Specs |
|---|---|
| Laser Projector | ILDA-compatible, Class 3B (with safety features) |
| Console | Custom Raspberry computer. |
| Inputs | 4x smartphone controllers, GPIO, USB, optional sensors |
| Outputs | Laser projection, USB DAC, DMX, audio |
🌍 Outdoor Gaming in Barcelona
A public outdoor installation is in preparation for Barcelona:
- Games projected onto building walls, sails, and public spaces
- Connect via QR code and play using your smartphone
- Real-world multiplayer experience — no screens required
📦 Roadmap
- Handheld console prototype
- Laser DAC communication layer
- Vector game engine
- Vectrex emulation
- Open SDK & tooling
- Public beta testing event
- Open-source parts of the system
👾 Who Is This For?
- Retro gaming fans
- Creative coders and game developers
- Laser and AV installation artists
- Indie devs building physical-digital experiences
VEC3x – Bringing vector games back from the 80s, and onto the city walls of the future.