The GP2X
The GP2X is a handheld system originally meant for games. Following the success of the GP32 handheld (The GP2X’s younger brother), GamePark decided to make a new system with advanced graphics, and the ability to play music, videos, ebooks, and, of course, games. It may sound like a Playstation Portable clone, but with a twist: It runs completely off of Linux, an open source operating system.
In case you don’t know what Linux is, it’s an operating system mainly meant for Personal Computers, but in this case, the GP2X runs it. Linux is open source, which means it’s free, with (of course) the copyrights, and it can be modified in lots of ways. Many people who use computers use Linux because it is a lot more stable and less vulnerable than Windows, and you don’t have to buy an entire different computer, like the Macintosh.
Not only can the GP2X play games and multimedia, but it can also emulate different systems, like the Super Nintendo for instance. But you do need the ROMs, which I can’t tell you where they are, since that will be illegal due to copyright issues. Emulation is why many people imported the system in the first place.
Of course, the GP2X is not without its flaws. Many people complained about screen flickering, and random scratches on the system. There were also some issues with the control stick, due to the awkward sensors. Fortunately, they are going to be fixed in the updated versions of the GP2X. I am looking forward to the release.
A Technical Look At The GP2X
The GP2X has sixty four megabytes of built in flash memory, and it also takes flash cards. I recommend that you only put very important applications on it, and save other stuff, like games, multimedia, etc. on it. Flash cards can hold up to four gigabytes, which is one thousand and twenty four megabytes pet gigabyte. If you can get the four gigabyte one, then you’re set. Be prepared to shell out $200 for a four gig one though.
Overall Thoughts
Overall, from what I researched, the GP2X is a wonderful handheld system with many possibilities. They cost about $180 to $210 though, but it’s worth it from what I know. I want one of those so bad! I want to put Tourettes Guy videos on it to show my friends! But enough about that. I hope you enjoyed this informational article.
(Reference: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gp2x)
