The ambitious Intellivision Amico video game system has been delayed again, this time to the end of 2021.
The push could put Tommy Tallarico’s family-focused system in a bind, as the timeline will put the Amico’s delay right in the middle of the holiday season.
However, the company issued a statement on Aug. 7 saying pre-ordered units would be delivered by the end of the year.
“This will allow us more time to optimize our operating system for future game development,” the statement on the company’s Facebook page read. “We want to ensure that those who have anticipated the Amico for so long get a chance to enjoy it as soon as possible.”
The company blamed the pandemic, widespread component supply shortages and logistics challenges. These issues echo statements made by companies like Sony in the past to explain delays of its PlayStation 5 console availability.
But Amico’s delay could complicate its initial sales numbers, as it could cause it to miss the annual holiday buying spree from consumers. The system had been scheduled for a fall 2020 release.
Amico now has more than 60 employees building the system across three continents, the statement also said.
The company said it would issue a “very special thank you gift” via email to those who have pre-ordered.
“Of course, we will keep all of our customers and interested parties informed and updated on our continued progress. Everyone at Intellivision wants to thank you, our dedicated fans and loyal followers for your enthusiasm and incredible unwavering support for Amico.”