Playdate, a portable gaming console created by Panic, is finally available for customers in Malaysia. This news was first published by Amanz last week, and it seems that although the device is not sold in Malaysia, it can be ordered through the website and imported from the USA.
Playdate was first announced in 2019 and was finally released in 2022 after some delays. The lack of availability in Malaysia was noticeable, as the portable console is actually manufactured in Sungai Petani, Kedah, which even the developer humorously mentioned on the FAQ page, explaining that it is due to tax reasons. Panic stated that it would be too costly for customers if the company shipped the devices to its warehouse in the USA and then back to Malaysia. However, it seems that they have changed their position on this matter.
The portable console features a black and white, 1-bit LCD display similar to e-ink displays. It has directional buttons, two game buttons, and a mechanical crank that serves as a controller in some games and can be tucked away.
As for the games themselves, Playdate comes with a total of 24 games, and an interesting feature is that upon its launch, you will receive two games every week for 12 weeks via Wi-Fi. Of course, if you want more games, you can purchase and download them from the Catalog app store.
Playdate by Panic is available on the online store for $199, which is equivalent to about 948 Malaysian Ringgit, and an optional cover set costs an additional $20, or about 95 Malaysian Ringgit. Unfortunately, the price does not include shipping and taxes, raising the total price up to $249, or about 1,186 Malaysian Ringgit.
From now on, all game enthusiasts in Malaysia have the opportunity to own this unique portable console.
Related Links:
– Playdate Website
– Amanz Website
The source of the article is from the blog smartphonemagazine.nl