Gamepark GP2X-F100 handheld console

Posted by T3 Online on Thu 21 Sep 2006

The retro handheld taking on DS and PSP.

This pocket console isn't just a wallet-friendly retro-gamer's delight, it's also a movie and music player. But for all its charms, we doubt Nintendo and Sony are shaking in their boots, somehow.

This Linux-based retro renegade requires you to scour the deepest recesses of the Web for 'free' classic games to download onto an SD card. Technically speaking, unless you already own the original game in its native format (usually an arcade or console ROM cartridge), it's illegal. You're cool with that? Well bear in mind that many of them won't work until you track down various other bits of code as well.

There are also some above-board 'homebrew' games out there. But with the best will in the world, the likes of Deathchase are not going to challenge the latest DS or PSP cart for excitement or state-of-the-art graphics.

A handful of bespoke GP2X titles, such as the GTA-inspired Paycheck, are also available, pre-loaded onto an SD card for around �20. Again, they're no match for the top-end titles available for Sony and Nintendo's handhelds.

The GP2X looks reasonably stylish, but the control stick feels flimsy and the buttons are sat too close together for comfort. The fact it runs off AA batteries feels very retro as well - and not in a charming way.

As a video viewer and music player, it's not bad, but its murky, non-widescreen images are not a patch on the PSP.

This is an enthusiast's device. If you're a hardcore retro-monkey who clocks R-Type with one hand while sticking two fingers up at copyright law with the other, it's perfect for you. If you want a polished portable experience, it's not.