32Blit

20 Jun 2019

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Kickstarter

As many might not be aware, there’s currently a Kickstarter for a small, DIY handheld game console going on.

The stated main goal of the project is to teach people how to code, in a playful manner.

As somebody who is extremely passionate about software development (especially on resource constrained devices), I naturally ordered one on the first day (I plan on ordering another one for my niece. If I can get her interested in actually designing games over simply playing them … sigh).

What I’m enthusiastic about

• The inclusion of an SD card slot, allowing the physical distribution of games.
• Batteries included. Specifically tailored game development libraries for (Orthodox) C++ and Lua.
• The seemingly bright and colorful IPS display.

My hopes/plans

• To create a tailor-made version of Middangeard, ditching the parser for multiple choice controls.
• To experiment with Go support on this particular chipset.
• I might revisit Little Peter’s Adventure. A C64 game I originally started development on back in 2012, upon the death of my previous cat.

What I’m sceptical about

• The absence of a headphone jack is a bit of a bummer.
• While I personally don’t crave it, I’m not yet convinced the lack of a touchscreen will appeal to everybody.