New Kit Brings Java Games To The GBA

aJile Systems, a company founded by the developers of the first direct-execution Java microprocessor, has created a game development kit to bring Java MIDP games to the Game Boy Advance, using Sun's new MIDP 2.0 technology. With the JAMiD game development kit, Java developers can create mobile games that will also play on the Game Boy Advance and Game Boy SP. The key component of the JAMiD kit is the Java game cartridge, which plugs into the external card slot on the GBA and gives it Java support. The JAMiD cartridge includes aJile's direct execution aJ-100 Java microprocessor, an MP3 audio player, and all of the necessary memory and interface hardware to download and run MIDP-compatible games and MP3 audio. aJile is selling the JAMiD as a development kit with software tools that enable game developers to create MIDP game titles for Game Boy handhelds. aJile said it is negotiating with OEMs in Asia, Europe and North America to manufacture and merchandise consumer versions of the JAMiD game cartridge. aJile is also building a web site where mobile game developers can distribute their MIDP games to users. aJile will make it possible for game developers to offer both free and for-fee downloads to gamers. Owners of Java-enabled handsets, PDAs and stand-alone game players will be able to access MIDP games from aJile's site. The aJile JAMiD Development Kit (JAM-ID100K) includes a JAMiD Java gaming cartridge (JAM-ID100C), J2ME/CLDC/MIDP Java Runtime, aJile development tool chain, JAMiD adapter boards and cables. The JAMiD Development Kit will be available the first week of April for $199.