Transform your iPhone into a Gameboy

iCade transforms our futuristic Smartphones into a blast from the past with their newest gizmo. While smartphones continue to get faster, smaller, and sharper, mobile gaming is still somewhat limited by your fingers. If you’re tired of your fat digits getting in the way, consider this unique gaming accessory.
The iCade Mobile Gaming System for iPhone uses the classic controller interface gamers of the 90s are so accustomed to using. Despite the classic design, the controller works with modern games. There are four buttons, four shoulder buttons, and a 4-way joystick, in addition to a slot for your iPhone.
When in use, you have full access to the iPhone’s screen for maximum visibility. Despite the cradle, the device uses Bluetooth connectivity to communicate with your iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, or iPhone 4S. It’s also compatible with the iPod Touch, although it doesn’t fit quite as perfectly in the compartment.
Unfortunately, the device’s biggest flaw is that developers need to custom code their games to support the iCade Mobile Gaming System. Supported games as of this writing include Midway Arcade, Super lemonade Factory, Retro Racing, Super Mega Worm, IronStar Arena, Warblade HD, Cyborg Livestock, AirAttack HD, and Temple Run, among others.
The iCade for iPhone is a classic example of a luxury device. It serves no real world problem, besides relieving your fat fingers from the cramped touchscreen. It’s difficult – albeit near impossible – to justify spending the $69 to buy the device. Moreover, the device’s bulkiness defeats the purpose of the iPhone’s elegant physique.
Users who think outside the box – literally – can use the iCade with their iPad as a wireless controller, although it isn’t officially supported. Perhaps, in the coming months, the company will release a controller – without the cradle – for the iPad, which is game-friendly. Playing games on the iPhone doesn’t have the same user experience that it does on the iPad.
Overall, though, the iCade offers a solid NES-like experience on a modern iPhone. As mentioned, it’s difficult to justify the expense. And you may get a few strange looks if used in public, since it’s safe to say the iCade for iPhone won’t be a mainstream device.