There are two types of ignition for gas engines.
An electronic ignition uses a rechargable battery to drive a small box from which the spark plug wires emanate.
A magneto ignition has a fixed magnet in the flywheel that generates a pulse of electricity when it passes by a coil.

The electronic ignition is better for hand starting. It automatically retards the spark at low rpm. Magneto ignitions have fixed spark advance making the liklihood of kickback higher. Also, magneto ignition requires a pretty fast flip to generate enough electricity for a hot spark. Electronic ignitions can be hand started very easily.

The only drawback to the electronic system is probably the cost. And you must carry a separate battery to power it (typically a 4.8 or 6.0 volt NiCD like a rx pack). CH is a very popular manufacturer of electronic ignitions.