1. What Was the Gizmondo?

The Gizmondo was a handheld gaming console released in 2005 by Tiger Telematics. Marketed as a multifunctional entertainment device, it featured gaming, messaging, music, video playback, GPS navigation, and even a camera—all in one sleek unit.

Despite its ambitious design and cutting-edge features, the Gizmondo is mostly remembered today for its massive commercial failure and the wild controversies surrounding its creators.

2. Key Features of the Gizmondo

• 2.8" TFT color screen: decent display for the time with 320x240 resolution.
• Built-in GPS: rare for a handheld device in 2005, used for both gaming and navigation.
• GPRS + SMS messaging: functioned as a mobile communication device (SIM card required).
• Camera and media player: supported MP3, WMA, JPEG, and video playback.
• Windows CE-based OS: allowed multitasking and potential app development beyond gaming.

3. Game Library and Performance

• Limited software support: only around 14 games were officially released.
• Top titles: included Sticky Balls, Trailblazer, and Colors.
• Performance potential: hardware was solid, but underutilized due to lack of developer support.

4. Scandal, Collapse, and Legacy

The Gizmondo's collapse was dramatic. Lavish marketing events, celebrity endorsements, and a bizarre Supercar crash by a company executive led to intense media scrutiny. Tiger Telematics filed for bankruptcy in 2006, barely a year after launch.

• Infamous failure: considered one of the worst-selling consoles ever made.
• Internet cult status: became a meme and case study in business mismanagement.
• Collector curiosity: now prized by rare hardware collectors and retro gaming historians.