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The GBA's Last Stand
1up.com has a feature up examining the possible end of days for the Game Boy Advance. From the article: "...it would seem the end is nigh. Sony's PlayStation Portable offers PS2 level power and a beautiful screen next to GBA's humble, Super NES-quality experience. And Nintendo seems be placing its hopes on its quirky but successful two-screened DS. Rumors of a next-generation Game Boy system were crushed at E3 2005 with the unveiling of Game Boy Micro, a revised GBA selling on its stylish, compact design and beautiful (but minuscule) screen."
So you claim it takes less attention to play a game than it does to watch a movie? Do you play any games other than Final Fantasy "press a button 100 times to continue" clones?
Which would you rather do, watch a movie in 10 minute increments, or play a game in 5 minute increments.
I can dedicate my attention for small amounts of time, but to do so in a movie breaks the immersion.
Games can be about immersion, but there's a time and a place for it. That time and place is not while I'm on a bus or car ride.
My current favorite games are racing sims and adventure platformers. Where I can accomplish a goal, appreciate the gameplay enough, and still be able to set it down and check on our progress as we drive to where ever.
Games with lots of audio are a no-no. I need to at least have 1 of my 2 important senses available at all times, and audio can disrupt others if I don't bring headphones (thereby putting me out of availability).
Now I'm not saying that there are videos out there which wouldn't be great on a handheld. Perhaps a Sitcom, or even, your favorite sci-fi show. Something light, not time consuming, and for the love of god, cheap.
GBA: $50 US on ebay if you're lucky
PSP: $299 new, still fraking expensive on eBay
The GBA isn't going anywhere. Anybody who considers the PSP and GBA direct competitors are idiots.