THE MBX VOICE RECOGNITION SYSTEM--------
This is an informative page designed to show you what the MBX system is, how it works with the TI-99/4a, and what kinds of special features it has. It will probably answer many questions you may have about it. I own one, so I took most of this information from the manual. Screen shots of the system and the game I have for it will come later.
CLICK HERE TO GO TO THE MBX SOUNDS PAGE
An MBX Expansion System is a 3-part system that lets you interact with your computer in a whole new way. The sytstem really works, as you can really talk to the computer (in special programs only) and tell it what to do. The whole process is pretty cool, from training the computer your voice, to executing the commands. There are a few bugs though - I might say "third" to tell the computer to throw the ball to third base, but it will think I said "first" and throw it to first base for example. Oh well, 1983 technology wasnt perfect i guess :)
The MBX system uses special "Solid State Speech" cartridges from Milton Bradley.
The 3-part system includes a headset microphone; a triple axis analog joystick; and a console with a built in keypad.
The console and the headset microphone allow you to use voice recognition, away to control screen action, by spoken words. The console also includes a built in upgraded speech synthesizer. This speech synthesis allows for more realistic speech, character voicing etc. Built in to the main console is a 64 key keypad. An overlay, depending on the game can fit over this, to illustrate the special functions in the game.
The other interesting accessories is a triple axis analog joystick that offers proportional control and total maneuverability of screen graphics. This joystick also features a control knob that can turn counterclockwise or clockwise, it will allow you to control screen objects and turn them 360 degrees!.
The way your voice command works is simple, depending on the game, the MBX system will ask you a variety of questions so you can "teach" it your voice. It can adjust to your tone as well, this is thanks to the fact that it asks you the questions 3 times over.
Unfortunately, this system wasn't out long enough for many games to be developed for it. As you'll see there's not much software out for it, and just about no third party developers develop for it today. The system was a bit of a flop. Here is a listing of all the games and educational cartridges that were offered:
Honey Hunt- (Bright Beginnings series)- Helps kids out with prediction and pattern skills.
Bigfoot-(Arcade Series)- Much like the TI game alpiner, you get to climb 6 of the worlds tallest mountains. But the Abominable snowman is on top!
Championship Baseball-(Arcade Series)- An extremely realistic arcade style baseball game. The user gets a ton of control with voice, keypad and joystick with batting, base running, sliding, and pitching.
I'm Hiding-(Bright Beginning Series)- Based on bugs who play hide and go seek, the child learns about size shape and color.
Meteor Belt-(Arcade Series)- An interesting intergalactic duel, that's fast paced and fun.
Sewermania-(Arcade Series)- A subterranean search in the sewers, But watch out for the tiny crawling creatures!
Soundtrack Trolley-(Bright Beginnings)- An excellent game which you try to guess the melody that is playing. For all ages.
Space Bandits-(Arcade Series)- I don't know much about this one.
Superfly-(Arcade Series)- You are the fly, trying to survive a cosmic bug attack.
Terry Turtle's Adventures-(Bright Beginnings)- This is a good program that helps kids start to learn basic programming skills.