VTech Socrates

The VTech Socrates was an educational video game console released in 1988 by VTech. The console featured a robot character Socrates, named after the philosopher. The character is visually similar to Johnny Five from the Short Circuit movies.

The system featured standard wireless controllers that communicated via infrared reception.

In Germany, the system was sold by "Yeno" under the name "Prof. Weiss-Alles" .

Games

Many games cartridges were available for the Socrates including: Facts 'N Fractions, State to State, Memory Mania, Around the World, Hodge Podge, Game Wizard and Amazing Mazes. Alongside this, other cartridges came available with different functions, such as the CAD Design System for designing different objects, and the Touch Pad system, mainly geared towards younger learners.

There were games built into the console as well, including math, language, music and art programs. The system also featured voice capabilities through the use of an add-on voice cartridge which could be purchased separately.

Hardware

The system came standard with a wireless full keyboard with two wired-on controllers. Other optional hardware included a wireless mouse with attached mouse pad (mainly for use with the CAD Design Cartridge) and an electronic touchpad (for the Touch Pad cartridge.)

Price and Phase Out

The system was quite expensive upon its initial release; most consoles saw prices...
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