GCW-ZERO, the open source gaming console

gcw-zeroPortable gaming consoles remain within the domain of Nintendo and Sony, with their Nintendo 3DS as well as PS Vita, respectively, but their territory have been encroached upon by other forms of mobile gaming, no thanks to the huge popularity of tablets as well as smartphones. Well, here is another player that intends to bite off a chunk of this lucrative market – the $149.99 GCW-ZERO, which happens to be an open source gaming console. With the GCW-ZERO, you know for sure that you have something good going on here, especially when it has been built by gamers for gamers.

Specially designed with open source games in mind, it will be able to handle a plethora of games that used to run on the NES, SNES, GBA, Sega, PlayStation, PC and plenty more, being basically too many to mention. Powered by Linux, it already comes with a slew of open source software that is ready to rock and roll. Alternatively, you can also opt to change the operating system if you so desire. As for the hardware specifications, you might be pleased to hear that there will not be any pesky thumbs blocking your view, since it comes with a responsive D-pad, an analog nub, two shoulder buttons and tilt controls. Underneath the hood, a 1GHz processor accompanied by 512MB RAM gets the job done, while its 16GB of internal memory can be augmented by another microSD card to hit an additional 64GB.
[ GCW-ZERO, the open source gaming console copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

PSA: Nintendo 3DS XL now available in US, AC adapter included

Nintendo 3DS XL now available in US, AC adapter included

That Japan-exclusive Pikachu clamshell might be slightly out of reach for US buyers, but starting today they can pick up a regular 3DS XL to the tune of $200. The oversized Nintendo handheld surpasses its predecessor in just about every category, shining through our review gauntlet with more battery life, a more comfortable grip and a more luxurious screen. On top of the usual fare, US buyers will also receive a power adapter, a necessary accessory that was oddly left out of the Japanese and European releases. Oh, and if you’re looking for something new to play on that shiny hardware, New Super Mario Bros. 2 hits the US eShop today as well.

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PSA: Nintendo 3DS XL now available in US, AC adapter included originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 19 Aug 2012 15:15:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LeapFrog introduces LeapsterGS

When it comes to the number of toys that you can purchase for your kids, there does not seem to be any end to it, what with the deluge of advertising from different manufacturers as well as the mad holiday season rush that happens once a year. The next thing you know, they would just spend a couple of weeks with the latest purchase from you, before ditching it and wanting something else new that was advertised on the TV or over the Internet. How about introducing something more educational and yet entertaining? This is what LeapFrog Enterprises have done by introducing the LeapsterGS.

The LeapsterGS is touted to be the “ultimate learning video game system”, where it will be the most recent addition to the award-winning Leapster family. Do not expect LeapFrog to remain stagnant with their creations, as the LeapsterGS is a groundbreaking improvement of Leapster Explorer. It might be deemed to be a revolutionary new gaming handheld device, but it will also have its fair share of educational properties as well.

Basically, the LeapsterGS will deliver fast-action gameplay that is jam packed with a rich learning experience, all coming in a sleek and kid-tough design. LeapsterGS is tipped to ensure kids remain engaged while learning by placing them in charge of the action with updated features, ranging from motion-based play, a built-in camera and video recorder, kid-friendly controls, and a large library of high-quality educational entertainment.

Greg Ahearn, chief marketing officer at LeapFrog, said, “LeapsterGS is an aspirational learning game solution that both parents and kids will love. Kids will experience fast-paced game-system action, and parents can trust their kids are engaged with age-appropriate educational entertainment. Our learning content is designed by our highly experienced team of learning experts to ensure our library keeps kids immersed in the game as they build important skills.”

Your wallet will also be pleased to know that the LeapsterGS itself is not too hard on your pocket, as it has a sticker price of $69.99, while being recommended for children 4 to 9 years. You can purchase downloads at $5.00 and above, while game cartridges will retail for $24.99.

Press Release

[ LeapFrog introduces LeapsterGS copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]