@Ampersound I'm thinking about picking up an original GBA to mod with a backlit screen. However, I already have several handhelds on hand: a DS Lite, DSi, DSi XL, 2DS, New 3DS, New 3DS XL, PSP Go, and PS Vita.
I can play GBA games on the DS Lite with an EZ Flash V + Slot 1 Card, but the screen is too small for me. Same with the New 3DS running in 1:1 mode.
I think the DSi has the most vibrant screen, but I have to use GBARunner, which sometimes introduces repeated lines at the bottom of the screen. Emulation accuracy varies by game.
The XL consoles are larger (good for my aging eyes!) but mute the color palettes.
I like the size and feel of the 2DS, especially the placement of the d-pad and the silent/squishy buttons, which allow for quieter play at night without disturbing my partner. As mentioned above, the screen seems to also benefit from having a grid. Although I know VC injects are more accurate, I dislike the inability to remap buttons. I'd prefer to use Y/B instead of B/A, which makes platformers (my favorite genre) more difficult. The hardware doesn't seem able to support mGBA as an emulation option (too slow?). GBArunner has the same ripple issues as mentioned above.
As for remapping buttons to fix my complaints with VC injects, I know you can do this with GBArunner. I don't think this is possible with VC games as input remapping doesn't apply to the native hardware. Anyone know if this limitation persists with Open_AGB_Firm, which is the only method I haven't used?
The PSP Go is both inaccurate emulation and too small for my hands. The Vita improves emulation but the thumbsticks get in the way of using the face buttons comfortably. I also think the OLED model I have is too vibrant. I like things sharp and vivid but not to the point that it begins to border on oversaturation.
I wonder if the GBA is going to be any better, as it's another cost along with an Everdrive or EZ Flash Omega cartridge. I'm looking at the original model because I've owned an SP before and found it uncomfortable to hold.
Questions for anyone who has owned one:
How are the D-pad and buttons? I've read complaints that the d-pad is not one of Nintendo's best? Can it be improved?
Are the buttons silent or clicky? Is the angle of B/A better than what I've complained about with the 2DS?
Can an IPS screen compete with the DSi and will it render accurately or does it introduce other video artifacts?
My ideal handheld would have a single screen with the vibrancy of the DSi, removal of all analog controls, an accurate d-pad, shoulder buttons that press easily and do not get stuck, and face buttons that are silent. I know it's impossible, but I love the SNES controller and would love to be able to add a concave/convex set to a handheld.