Build Your Own Gaming System

The HYDRA Game Development Kit is brought to you by the crew at XGameStation. It comes with all the parts, and instructions to create what is essentially, a bootleg computer system. When completed, it can play many different types of interface devices, including NTSC/PAL video, VGA video, PS/2 ports and networking. NTSC and VGA formats are displayed with up to 256 color variations.

The HYDRA has an 86 color palette and can generate almost any kind of tiled, bitmapped, or sprite based displays. In short, you will be able to play games like this…

…and whatever the hell this is.

Most importantly, you will not need your PC in order to write programs. With a classic version of BASIC, programs can be written directly on the HYDRA. This kit does cost a pretty penny ($199.95), and the graphics might seem a bit dated to some, based on pictures, but there is a certain sentimental value which I’m sure builders will enjoy. And you’ll feel mighty accomplished knowing you have the ability to create a console from (almost) scratch. And truly, that is what is most important.