HyperScan
The HyperScan is a home video game console from the toy company Mattel. Marketed towards tweens, the console is unique in that it includes a 13.56 MHz radio-frequency identification (RFID) scanner that reads and writes to special cards called "IntelliCards" which, in turn, activate features in and save data from the game. Players are able to enhance the abilities of their characters by scanning cards.
| Manufacturer | Mattel |
|---|---|
| Type | Video game console |
| Generation | Seventh |
| Release date | October 23, 2006 |
| Introductory price | $69.99 |
| Discontinued | 2007 |
| Units sold | ~30,000 |
| Media | CD-ROM |
| System on a chip | Sunplus SPG290 @ 108Mhz |
| Memory | 16MB DDR DRAM |
| Storage | RFID cards |
| Controller input | Gamepad |
| Best-selling game | X-Men (Pack-In) |
| Predecessor | Intellivision, Mattel Aquarius |
Games retailed for $19.99 and the console itself for $69.99 at launch, but at the end of its very short lifespan, prices of the system were down to $9.99, the games $1.99, and booster packs $0.99. There were only five titles known to have been released, with two canceled games.
The HyperScan became critically panned upon its release for having outdated 2D-only graphics, a weak game library, and being less capable then other similar consoles such as the VTech V.Flash, which released the month prior. Critics also raised concerns about the amount of IntelliCards needed to complete a set, and the potential financial burden towards its target audience. Following disappointing sales, Mattel discontinued the HyperScan the following year, and canceled all upcoming game and card releases.