Yesterday, people noticed that the Archos GamePad became available through select online retailers. It is priced at a low $179, and features a 7″ 1024×600 5-point touch display, a dual-core A9 processor with 1GB of RAM, and a quad-core GPU. Sure, it’s no Project SHIELD, but this would be a perfect gift for a game-loving child or as a flight companion. 

We just got done hanging with the ARCHOS crew here at CES, and while we were there, we were able to go hands-on with the brand spanking new GamePad. The device sports built-in buttons, triggers, and toggles, all dedicated for gaming centered around a semi-okay display with a resolution of 1024 x 600. The hybrid device is powered by a dual-core processor, quad-core GPU, 1GB of RAM, and 8GB of on-board memory which is expandable. 

The Archos GamePad is a device we have brought up a few times, but we have been waiting patiently for when we could finally get our hands on one. Thankfully, Archos officially launched the device in Europe today, as well as giving us here in America a new time frame to look forward to, early Q1 2013. What makes this device so special are the built-in gaming controls for a complete on-the-go gaming experience. It comes equipped with Jelly Bean, a 7″ display, and a lightweight portable body which shouldn’t tire out your arms. 

Today, device maker Archos has announced their newest upcoming product, the GamePad. The GamePad, which features a 7″ display, physical control buttons and analog sticks, may just be the greatest Android gaming device to hit the market. With access to Google Play, users can finally play all of those first-person shooters with ease and no more onscreen controls.