What are the biggest advantages of the Apple iPad?
Big screen: We're talking about 10" by 8". Games look big and colorful. The iPad is ideal for board games, like Scrabble, and strategy games.
Responsive touchscreen: Reportedly has thousands of touch points on the screen and it feels like it. Tight and fast.
Plays iPhone/iPod Touch games: Virtually all the games work on the iPad, either in original screen mode or magnified, double screen mode.
Great graphics and sound: Games take up more memory, so they have improved visuals, music and effects. Even the launch games are a notch above any other mobile platform.
What are the disadvantages of the Apple iPad?
Doesn't transfer saves: A really big deal here. Say you have played halfway through Final Fantasy, like I have, and want to continue playing on the glorious iPad. The device will let you redownload your app, but those saved games are stuck on your iPhone/iPod. You're starting over.
Expensive games: There are a couple hundred launch games, running $9.99 or $14.99 on average, compared to the $4.99 average on the iPhone/iPod. Most launch games aren't a huge step above the older titles.
Awkward volume button: It's placed at the bottom right hand side during the iPad's landscape mode. Not easy to get to, partIcularly when the view is fixed or you're using Apple's highly recommended case.
No multitasking: Want to keep your Tetris game going while you check your email real quick? Not going to happen. Nearly all games have an autosave when you leave, but it still requires relaunching the app, going through the title screen, etc.
So, should I buy one?
Yes, but more because of the potential games coming very soon. Right now the Apple iPad is essentially a giant iPod Touch: same games with awesome graphics. I've seen where the next gen of games are going, though, and there are going to be some serious titles coming out over the next few months.
The Apple iPad is a given if you want a light, portable multimedia machine. As strictly a game machine, it is good with plenty of room to go.