What Is The GP32?
Since we made the announcement that we were now covering GP32 and all it’s emulator and extreme app silliness, we’ve received several emails asking “So Jason, what exactly is this GP32?”. I could answer all those emails one by one, but I might be too lazy. Instead, I offer this: a quick accounting of the GP32.
Based out of Korea, the GP32 is the primary product of GamePark Holdings. Boasting a 32-bit ARM9 RISC processor, a nice 320 X 240 TFT screen, SM card compatibiility, a USB port to hook to your PC, MP3 support, and the latest DiVX and XviD codecs available, the GP32 is not your ordinary handheld game system contender. The closest we have to compare to it domestically is the Tapwave Zodiac.
The cult following of the GP32 is most impressive. There are hundreds of emulators for the GP32 OS for all your favorite dinosaur games on all the old-school dinosaur systems. Developers constantly release goodies for the GP32 OS, mostly file organizers and media players. And many communities exist in support of the sysem. Like Palm, the development of applications by independent developers is highly supported, encouraged even, by corporate headquarters. If you’ve always wanted to make a game for a console, this might just be the best place to start.
The GP32 comes in three flavors: Basic ($149), Front-Lit ($169.90), and the Back-Lit BLU version ($179.90). For those of you familiar with the Afterburner Kits for the original GBA, you should know that front light holds its own on TFT screens, but nothing compares to a solid back light.
The games base for GP32 is ever expanding as well. Along with all the homebrewed independent games, and all the emulated classics, the GP32 has an impressive line up of import titles. GP32 EU has a comprehensive list of available games to get you started.
So, after all is said and done, the GP32 is one kick ass little system. The import has all the makings to keep even the most picky of pocket gamers (hi, dmgice!) content. Do we own one? No. Do we wish we did? Hell yes! Will we get one soon? Most definitely.
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