Console gaming on the go just got easier thanks to a mobile gaming kit that comes with a built-in high-definition display screen to connect to your Xbox 360 or Sony PlayStation system.
The GAEMS G155, short for Gaming and Entertainment Mobile Systems, is essentially a heavy-duty briefcase with the display neatly fixed to the inner lid. Your game console is positioned inside and held in place tightly by two wide fabric fasteners straps.
A short HDMI cable comes with the unit and connects your game console to a port near the bottom of the display. Two pouches are available for power cords and a controller or two.
That's pretty much the simple science behind this $299 unit. Once you've put your console in, you can play "Call of Duty: Black Ops" to your heart's content anywhere there's a power outlet.
The system supports recent models of Microsoft Corp.'s Xbox 360 and Sony Corp.'s PlayStation 3. You'd have to buy those separately. (Nintendo Co.'s Wii isn't supported because it doesn't have an HDMI jack.)
The build quality of the unit is fine. The console sits on a padded base that helps prevent it from slipping around in the case. I noticed no shifting as I carried my PlayStation 3 from room to room and to the office.
The 15.5-inch LED HD display delivered crisp colors and sharp detail during my tests playing a FIFA soccer game and a few shooters titles. High-definition videos I had saved on the PS3 hard drive also looked fine.
The volume, brightness and menu buttons at the bottom of the display glow red and offer easy access and usability. That said, I think the unit would be better if it shipped with an optional wireless remote, instead of selling that piece separately for $20.
There are twin audio jacks on the bottom of the display, which is a nice touch if you're gaming against someone next to you.
What might you need the GAEMS G155 for?
If you're traveling on business and are passionate about your games, you could use it to continue your campaigns from the comfort of a hotel room in the evenings. You could also bring it home for the holidays and pull it out after you've eaten enough turkey and endured enough family banter for the evening.
The GAEMS 155 is one of those products you probably think you don't need until you see how convenient it is. For some, surely this is overkill. For avid gamers, however, this is a pretty sweet addition for the road.