There's a COMPUTER inside my DS flashcart

Summary

The video explores the DS2, a Nintendo DS flashcard device that can run Linux and emulate various systems. Despite the unique capabilities, including running a PS1 emulator and Linux software from the Dingo A320, the DS2 is plagued with a poor SDK, causing issues like slow performance, graphical glitches, and limited compatibility. While some games like *Duke Nukem 3D* run decently, most applications struggle due to the lack of optimization. The video emphasizes that the DS2 is only for enthusiasts interested in coding and experimenting, not for casual users seeking a reliable gaming experience.

Takeaways

• 😀 The DS2 is a third-party flash card for the Nintendo DS that is used for running homebrew software and games.
• 😀 The DS2 suffers from a poorly designed SDK, lacking support for a standard C library and having unstable debugging tools.
• 😀 A unique issue with the DS2 is the lack of compatibility between the DS hardware and the flash card's architecture, requiring an FPGA bridge to work.
• 😀 Despite its issues, the DS2 is capable of running software not originally designed for it, such as a PS1 emulator, although with many problems.
• 😀 Running software on the DS2 is far from perfect, with slow speeds, graphical glitches, and audio problems being common, especially with emulators.
• 😀 The DS2 has the capability to run Linux, specifically a port called Dinguks, which allows running applications designed for the Dingo A320 console.
• 😀 Duke Nukem 3D, when compiled for DS2 Linux, runs surprisingly well with only minor frame dips and resolution issues, demonstrating the potential of optimized software.
• 😀 The PlayStation emulator on the DS2 is extremely slow, has no sound, and often suffers from games failing to boot, but it showcases the power of the hardware.
• 😀 The DS2 is considered a 'parasite' as it uses significantly more power from the DS than standard game cards, making it impractical for regular use.
• 😀 The DS2 Plus, a more powerful version of the DS2, never reached its potential due to a lack of an updated SDK to fully utilize its improved hardware.
• 😀 The DS2 is best suited for enthusiasts who enjoy the challenge of tinkering and are interested in writing code or exploring the limits of homebrew gaming.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the DS2 device discussed in the transcript?

The DS2 is a third-party device designed to allow users to run software and games on handheld consoles, offering emulation and compatibility with various applications, even though it faces several technical challenges.

What are some of the technical issues that the DS2 faces when trying to run software?

The DS2 suffers from issues like system hangs, audio latency, random glitches, and the lack of proper C library support. It also struggles with memory allocation and debugging tools, making software development difficult.

How does the DS2 interact with its hardware, and why is this problematic?

The DS2 and its card use completely different architectures, requiring an FPGA to act as a bridge. This incompatibility causes major issues with running software smoothly, resulting in glitches and performance problems.

What is Dinguks, and how does it relate to the DS2?

Dinguks is a version of Linux designed for the Dingo A320. Someone managed to port this version to the DS2, allowing it to run software made for the Dingo A320, though the process involves multiple layers of porting and results in performance inefficiencies.

Can you run PlayStation 1 games on the DS2 using an emulator? How well does it perform?

Yes, you can run a PS1 emulator on the DS2, but the performance is poor. The emulator is very slow, has no sound, and suffers from graphical glitches. Some games, like *Metal Gear Solid*, fail to boot entirely.

What is the main issue with the DS2's resolution, and how does it affect gameplay?

The DS2 is designed for a 320x240 screen, which results in scaling issues, especially when running applications or emulators that require higher resolutions. While it's manageable for certain games like *Duke Nukem 3D*, it becomes a major issue with other software.

What makes the DS2's architecture unique, and how does it impact its functionality?

The DS2 shares its hardware with the Dingo A320, but the two use different architectures. This creates compatibility issues and requires an FPGA to bridge the gap. While this allows the DS2 to run software from the Dingo A320, it also introduces performance problems due to the lack of proper optimization.

What is the DS2 Plus, and what are its limitations?

The DS2 Plus is a more powerful version of the DS2, designed to emulate the Gateway 3DS. However, it is no longer functional due to the lack of a new SDK, and the additional power is wasted since there is no software to leverage it.

Why is the DS2 considered a 'cursed' device by the user?

The DS2 is referred to as 'cursed' due to its unreliable SDK, multiple layers of ported software, and various technical problems, such as system instability, performance issues, and hardware incompatibility, making it challenging to use effectively.

Would the user recommend buying a DS2, and if so, who is it for?

The user does not recommend buying a DS2 unless you're a hardcore enthusiast interested in writing code for it or experimenting with its limitations. It's not suitable for casual users or those seeking reliable performance, as it comes with many technical difficulties.