So, do I get a GP2X?
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A while ago Waxie stuck a post up on the old WinningStyle with a write-up of the GP2X. This is, basically, an open source hand held which comes pre-loaded with Linux. Since this original post about 12 months ago, the machine has been released and is currently in its 3rd reincarnation (after various small mods).
I’ve been following the progress of this device off and on ever since reading that first post, and am now seriously considering parting with my hard earned cash. |
Well, not exactly– I aquired an iPaq a while ago, which I have summised is a load of shit (after spending about 60 quid on memory cards, replacement batteries and sticks and things). So I’m gonna flog that on eBay, and with the money I get for that, I’m hopefully going to be able to get a new GP2X.
So, why get a GP2X when I could get a PSP?
Because I’m not particularly interested in a PSP, I want something I can pimp. I want something I can stick Mario on, and all the Amiga games I loved as a kid.
I want a fully integrated handheld media player that doesn’t need endless firmware hacks and patching every time I want to do something new. or do something I used to be able to do until a recent mod means that I have to unmod it again to get it to work.
I actually thought that if I used my iPaq and modded it, it would offer a lot of this functionality, but alas it doesn’t. its a complete pain in the arse to do anything with at all. it takes a month to copy a single episode of Eastenders across (it has to reformat it to fit it on the screen. the GP2X has a custom scaling chip).
This leads me to storage… it would cost me an absolute fortune to buy additional memory cards for an iPaq (or a PSP, which used Sonys Pro Duo format cards). The GP2X acccepts standard SDRam cards, but, and this is the fact that clinched it for me- you can also purchase a £15 mod which allows it to accept USB Sticks. or any other USB device you wish to plug into it. a keyboard, a harddisk, a coffee warmer…
I want something that doesn’t demand I fork out £50 a time if I want a new game (not that I would). the GP2X has a very active developer scene, and hundreds of free downloads available right now. They don’t cost a penny. Thats cheaper than your average ringtone.
and finally, I want something that I’m going to stick on my shelf, never use, and put on ebay in 12 months time for a loss.
Heres some reviews
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Jim on: 
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Jim on: 
waxie on: 
Will on:
get one, get one, get one…..
Yeah you should definatly get one.. It would make a nice xmas pressie wouldnt it.. Your right though, the system is so open-ended the opportunities are endless.
So their on thier 3rd revision now.. I havent looked at this for a while but im gonna check your links out to see whats happening… Plus its a bonus to see an Amiga emulator for this baby.
Yea man, check it out. it looks very healthy at the moment!
I’ve just noticed, that pic must be an early prototype or something, its actually called the GPx2 there. fascinating.
hahah yeah… wierd man..
hey jim those review pages are really good. the gp2x platfrom is maturing well. there are a lot of good emulators out there now and the scene can only get stronger..
Absolutely. It does actually have a couple of genuine full price game releases available too (albeit only 2), and Payback looks slick as fuck.
But this is by the by. It isn’t what the device is all about. Sure, I wanna play games on it, but I’m probably MORE interested in the old school platformers and puzzle games than Metal Gear Turismo Kong VII. I think. and I’m DEFINATELY more interested in a portable media player for less than £150.
Cat wont let you , hahahahaha, you’ll have to buy new blinds first, or carpets or nappies, stop dreaming geek boy <3
See if you can ge a deal on2 cus I want one, they look propper sexy ……. Hook us up Jimbo, since I lost my iPod i need a new toy
well hang on, if your both getting one, then i dont wanna be left out!!!
Oh Man, I spoke to Cat, and NO-ONE is allowed one.
Nah, I’m gonna ebay my ass this week, and get one in time for xmas.
Just re read your first post, Hard earned cash my ass, lol,
Mate, its risky business, this thieving from the man.
My iPaq is now on ebay, waiting to sell, so I’ve been looking for a reasonably priced GP2x, and I’ve discovered Play-asia.com
they will sell you an imported console at £85! not only that, but you can add a PSU, a 2gb memory card, a case, a joystick and a screen protector, and it still only comes to £130. Its an extra £20 for carriage, but thatsSTILL about £70 less than what you’d pay in the UK for a fully kitted device.
http://www.play-asia.com/paOS-13-71-d1-49-en-70-uq6.html
the imported machines are identical to the ones sold in the UK.
I might have to start an import business!