Publicly, Intellivision tried to remain confident, releasing a video demo of the device on March 23. Behind the scenes, however, we learned that the company laid off a slew of employees under the direction of Phil Adam, who replaced Tommy Tarlarico earlier this year. Phil Adam was the least transparent about the situation in the messages the current CEO wrote for customers who had pre-ordered the console.
“We have significantly reduced operating costs, but unfortunately this required significant layoffs. Our resources are focused on engineering and testing to ensure we have a quality system because we cannot succeed by producing poor quality products.“Can we read?
An attempt at participatory investment in StartEngine failed, and Intellivision believes it has found a financing solution by offering partner studios to make Intellivision-licensed games on other platforms. Discussions are ongoing, so the first Intellivision games may soon be released on other platforms.
“These license agreements will fund the further development of Amico. Due to Amico’s unique controller and family positioning, wider distribution of Intellivision’s catalog of classic licenses will also help increase brand awareness without directly competing with Amico.“, Phil Adam explained.
Meanwhile, Intellivision promises to respond to all reimbursement requests, but this simple operation seems like a challenge for an understaffed team whose vaults may be empty or nearly empty. As a result, reimbursement has also been delayed.
“The public uncertainty about our status over the past few months has naturally led to an influx of booking refund requests. Our response to and processing of these requests has been delayed due to reduced staffing and financial requirements for continued operations.“, we were told.
As for those who want to believe in the end, they still hope to get their own console before the end of the year. But aside from one or two partner dealers, you shouldn’t expect to encounter Amico at the nearest store. Another question of money.
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