ModRetro Chromatic Preorders – GameStop Has Exclusive Variant Of The Modernized Game Boy

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The Latest in Retro Gaming

The ModRetro Chromatic is now available for preorder at GameStop, set to release this holiday season. The Chromatic reimagines the classic Game Boy experience with modern upgrades, allowing players to enjoy original Game Boy and GBC cartridges as well as new Chromatic-branded releases. Funded by Palmer Luckey, the founder of Oculus VR, the Chromatic has been open for preorders in six different color options since its announcement in June. However, gamers can now reserve a gray model exclusively through GameStop.

Priced at $199, the ModRetro Chromatic includes a new Tetris cartridge and is scheduled to launch on December 1, with preorders expected to arrive on or shortly after release day.

Comparing Chromatic and Analogue Pocket

When looking at devices like the Chromatic and the Analogue Pocket, both of which are FPGA handhelds designed to faithfully replicate original game performance, it’s clear they have different approaches. The Chromatic is dedicated to providing an authentic Game Boy and GBC experience, focusing on pixel structure and color accuracy. Its 2.6-inch IPS screen boasts a 160 x 144p resolution, matching that of the Game Boy Color. The screen is backlit with scratch-resistant, anti-glare glass, ensuring optimal visibility even in various lighting conditions.

In contrast, the Analogue Pocket features a 3.5-inch glass display with a resolution of 1600 x 1440p and 615 pixels per inch. It offers customizable pixel filters to recreate the look of different Game Boy models, including the original DMG, GBC, and GBA SP.

While the Chromatic supports Game Boy and GBC games exclusively, the Pocket extends its compatibility to include GB, GBC, and GBA games out of the box, with the option to add FPGA cores via microSD for additional platforms. This wider support is reflected in the Pocket’s design, featuring four face buttons and two triggers compared to the Chromatic’s layout of two face buttons and a D-pad.

While hands-on experiences with the Chromatic are limited, its durable build materials, including PBT buttons and a magnesium alloy shell, suggest a robust construction. The device also offers versatile battery options, running for 24 hours on three AA batteries or supporting rechargeable AA or lithium ion batteries via USB-C.

ModRetro Chromatic Specifications

  • Price: $199 (includes Tetris bundle)
  • Compatibility: Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Chromatic cartridges
  • Display: Backlit 2.56-inch IPS LCD (sapphire crystal glass)
  • Resolution: 160 x 144p
  • Size: 5.2 x 3 x 1.2-inch, 6.2oz
  • Shell: Magnesium alloy thixomolded shell
  • Buttons: PBT face buttons and D-pad
  • Battery: 24 hours with 3 AA batteries, lithium ion rechargeable battery pack
  • Audio: Internal speaker, 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Ports: Link cable, 3.5mm audio, USB-C with video out
  • Multiplayer: Via link cable or IR sensor
  • Colors: Gray (GameStop exclusive) | Six other colors available at ModRetro

For those without an existing Game Boy library, additional Chromatic cartridges are available for separate purchase. At launch, seven games will be available, with a new title set to release each month. These cartridges use Game Boy architecture, ensuring compatibility with original hardware and the Analogue Pocket.

Upcoming Retro Hardware

Evercade Console and Arcade Machines

Blaze Entertainment has introduced the Evercade VS-R, a $100 cartridge-based home console featuring the Tomb Raider Collection. This system offers a selection of retro cartridge compilations, with over 50 carts and 500 games in the Evercade library. Additionally, the Evercade EXP-R handheld, priced at $100, includes the Tomb Raider Collection and is set to launch on November 29.

Atari 7800+

Atari enthusiasts can preorder the Atari 7800+ for $130 at Amazon, scheduled for release on November 29. This modernized console plays Atari 2600 and 7800 cartridges, as well as new releases, and comes with wireless controllers and exclusive game titles. Accessories like the CX40+ Wireless Joystick and additional game cartridges are available for separate preorder.