Video Jukebox

This accessory from ASG Technologies is a box in which you plug in up to six SNES carts, and attach to the SNES via a special cartridge wired to the box. The idea is to allow you to switch between games without having to change cartridges. The box is made of steel, about 2 1/2 feet across, 6 inches tall, and 1 foot wide. On the front to the left there is a keypad with two rows of four buttons, used to switch between games, I assume, and three columns of two cartridge ports covering the rest of the front. A remote control to switch games was also available, I think. The top of the box is flat, and you could sit your SNES on top if you wanted. There are versions available for the Genesis and Jaguar, as well. You can link up to six of these units together, for up to 36 games "networked" together. I don't know how well these sold, as, they retailed for $49.95 each when they first came out. This device seems like a good idea, I am sure, but how practical it really is I don't know. I mean, how lazy can you be? I'd rather have 7 games and switch them manually, then 6 games and switch between them with this device. Plus, what if you have more than 36 games? Then what? Kind of defeats the purpose of the device in the first place. So, if you got money to spend and under 36 games, maybe this device isn't a bad idea. Otherwise, you could find much cooler accessories and games to spend your money on.
 
 

I can't end the article without mentioning one of their ads. Game companies often create bizarre ads in order to grab the reader's attention, and one of ASG's ads for this device is definately one of the most bizarre. The ad features a close-up of a guy with a forehead a foot and a half high. Inserted into his forehead are six Genesis cartridges, and corresponding LEDs (like on the VJ), to indicate what game he is "playing". He has a huge pointy nose, glowing red eyes (like he is possessed), and a devilish grin, showing his yellow jagged teeth. Next to him is the caption, "The ONLY other way to get nonstop gaming", as well as a smaller caption below that saying, "The Video Jukebox. Less Painful". I'd imagine so, though it looks like the guy is having a good time. Maybe having cartridges surgically implanted in your skull isn't such a bad idea...

Source: EGM2 #7

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