GamePro Labs: The Mojopac
- June 11, 2007 15:41 PM PST
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Don't have a laptop? The Mojopac may be the next-best idea.
WHAT IS IT? The Mojopac is a handy piece of software that lets you create a virtual desktop using any USB 2.0 enabled storage device. This includes: USB thumb drives, portable hard drives and even you high capacity MP3 player. Basically, it allows you to plug into any Windows XP PC and use the system's hardware resources to run your own self-contained desktop environment.
PROS:
- Easy install and setup means you won't have to fumble with complex menus. One button click takes you from the desktop of the host computer to your Mojopac desktop.
- The ability to use a variety of storage devices is also nice. However, a high capacity portable hard drive is probably the best option, especially if you have a lot of programs you want to take along with you.
- The resource overhead is also very minimal, meaning it probably won't impact your performance, especially if you are plugging into a decent system.
- The fact that you can take a personally customized version of Windows on the road is awesome, especially if you're traveling. There's nothing I hate more than using someone else's computer, or having someone else use mine.
CONS:
- The fact that you're loading data off the USB 2.0 interface means that you will take a small performance hit when it comes to load times. For instance, I installed and booted up the PC game Infernal on the Mojopac and my work system. My work system booted up the game in 32 seconds, compared to the 39 seconds it took the Mojopac (which was installed on a 60 GB Western Digital portable HDD). Also, loading the first level took 55 seconds compared to the Mojopac's 104 seconds.
- Granted, this isn't the Mojopac's fault but just be aware that it can affect your gaming performance. Once we got into the game, we didn't notice any slowdowns.
FINAL VERDICT: The Mojopac is an interesting product but whether you should buy it or not boils down to how much value you place on portability. It came in handy for me here in the office as I was able to install a PC game that I am reviewing (Resident Evil 4) onto the portable hard drive and play it both in the office and at home without having to install it a second time or shuttle around save files. I could also see the Mojopac coming in handy if I ever went traveling. Most gamers might not find the Mojopac useful, but if you like the idea of taking your desktop with you wherever you go, the Mojopac is a pretty nifty solution that'll get the job done.
Fun Factor: 3.75
