This weekend, GameStop has started selling Android gaming tablets at 200 of its US retail locations as part of its plans to expand its gaming device offerings. GameStop says it’s a pilot program and that the initial tablets will be from Asustek Computer Inc., Acer Inc., and Samsung Electronics Inc.
The new range of tablets will come pre-loaded with seven games, including: Dead Space and Madden NFL, and links to the GameStop Kongregate Arcade app store and the Android Market.
Currently, GameStop is selling four different Android slates in the form of the $300 7-inch Viewsonic VPad 7, $400 10.1-inch Asus Eee Pad Transformer, $400 Acer Iconia Tab A500, and $500 Motorola Xoom.
Expanding Gaming Horizons
GameStop’s decision to venture into the Android tablet market is a strategic move to diversify its product offerings and tap into the growing mobile gaming sector. By offering tablets pre-loaded with popular games and direct access to their Kongregate Arcade app store, GameStop aims to create a seamless gaming experience for its customers. This initiative not only caters to hardcore gamers but also appeals to casual gamers who are looking for a versatile device that can handle both gaming and everyday tasks.
The inclusion of high-quality games like Dead Space and Madden NFL showcases GameStop’s commitment to providing a premium gaming experience. Dead Space, a critically acclaimed survival horror game, and Madden NFL, a popular sports game, are both well-known titles that can attract a wide range of gamers. By pre-loading these games, GameStop ensures that customers can start enjoying their new devices right out of the box.
Tablet Specifications and Features
The tablets being offered by GameStop come from reputable manufacturers known for their quality and performance. Here’s a closer look at the specifications and features of the tablets available:
1. Viewsonic VPad 7: This 7-inch tablet is priced at $300 and is designed for users who prefer a compact and portable device. It features a responsive touchscreen, decent processing power, and enough storage to handle a variety of games and applications.
2. Asus Eee Pad Transformer: Priced at $400, this 10.1-inch tablet is known for its versatility. It can be paired with a keyboard dock, transforming it into a laptop-like device. This makes it ideal for users who need a device for both gaming and productivity.
3. Acer Iconia Tab A500: Also priced at $400, this 10.1-inch tablet offers robust performance and a sleek design. It is equipped with a powerful processor and ample storage, making it suitable for gaming, multimedia consumption, and everyday use.
4. Motorola Xoom: At $500, the Motorola Xoom is the most expensive option in GameStop’s lineup. This 10.1-inch tablet boasts high-end specifications, including a dual-core processor, high-resolution display, and substantial storage capacity. It is designed for users who demand top-tier performance and a premium gaming experience.
Future Prospects
If the pilot program proves successful, GameStop may expand its tablet offerings to more locations and possibly introduce additional models from other manufacturers. This could include tablets with more advanced gaming capabilities, larger screens, or even specialized gaming accessories.
Moreover, GameStop’s foray into the tablet market could pave the way for future collaborations with game developers and hardware manufacturers. By establishing itself as a key player in the mobile gaming market, GameStop can leverage its extensive retail network and customer base to drive sales and foster innovation in the gaming industry.
In conclusion, GameStop’s introduction of Android gaming tablets is a bold and strategic move that has the potential to significantly enhance its product portfolio and attract a broader audience. By offering high-quality devices pre-loaded with popular games, GameStop is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for mobile gaming solutions.
Source: Joystiq
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