History of video games/Platforms/Pokémon Pikachu

History
Pokemon Pikachu was released in Japan on Friday, March 27th, 1998 for 2,500 yen. The system was later released in North America on November 2nd, 1998 for $19.95. This dedicated console used a pedometer to measure player activity and create an fusion of exercising and a digital pet gaming experience on the go. The system also featured a slot machine gambling mechanic.

The Pokémon Pikachu 2 GS was released in Japan on Sunday, November 21st, 1999 for 3,000 yen, and in North America and Europe the following year.

The Pokémon Mini was a cartridge based followup console released in 2001. Some consider the later Poke Walker accessory for the Nintendo DS to be part of the legacy of this device, as it shares a similar concept.

Technology
The console had built in clock, as well as a pedometer for measuring player activity. The system can be cliped onto a belt, making it an early example of wearable computing and a wearable console.

The original Pokemon Pikachu used a black and white screen.

The Pokemon Pikachu 2 GS featured a color screen and inferred port, which could send data to other Pokemon Pikachu 2 GS handhelds, as well as to GameBoy Color consoles.

The system is powered by a single CR2032 disposable lithium coin cell battery.

External Resources

 * Google Arts and Culture - Contains a picture of a unit in packaging.