Irvine-based video game maker Intellivision Entertainment has closed a $2.1 million seed round led by a Dubai-based private investor, with input from more than 20 Orange County investors.
The original Intellivision video game company was started by El Segundo-based Mattel in the late 1970s, but its popularity was short-lived.
The new startup launched last year after acquiring the name and the IP from some of the original company’s employees.
Intellivision will introduce a new gaming console, Amico, next year. Retailing for about $180, it will include two controllers, and the ability to link up to eight mobile devices via app.
Games are expected to cost between $2.99 and $7.99 each.
Chief Executive Tommy Tallarico said the goal is to make gaming more of an interactive family activity.
“Video games have become so solitary, he said. “We’re encouraging people to come back into the living room and play together.”
A range of games will be available for the device including retro games like Pong and Centipede, along with new family-friendly games. An updated version of Earthworm Jim, a popular game from the 1990s, is expected to be among the first games offered, according to reports this month.
The company is currently raising a $7 million Series A.
