The ModRetro Chromatic is now available for preorder, set to launch this holiday season. This innovative handheld device aims to deliver an authentic Game Boy experience while integrating modern technology. The Chromatic supports original Game Boy and Game Boy Color cartridges, along with exclusive new titles branded under the Chromatic name. Funded by Oculus VR founder Palmer Luckey, the device was first revealed in June and now offers a gray model exclusively through a major retailer.
Priced at $199, the ModRetro Chromatic comes bundled with a new Tetris cartridge. The anticipated release date is December 1, with preorders expected to ship either on or shortly after the release date.
The Chromatic stands as a direct competitor to similar devices, like the Analogue Pocket. While both are FPGA devices that accurately replicate original gaming performance, they serve different purposes. The Chromatic focuses on recreating the nostalgic feel of playing on a Game Boy or Game Boy Color, whereas the Analogue Pocket offers a more versatile gaming experience.
With a 2.6-inch screen boasting a resolution of 160 x 144p—matching the Game Boy Color—the Chromatic enhances visibility with a backlit IPS display featuring scratch-resistant, anti-glare glass. In contrast, the Analogue Pocket features a larger 3.5-inch screen with a significantly higher resolution, allowing for stunning visuals and multiple display options.
Unlike the Pocket, which plays Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance titles, the Chromatic is dedicated specifically to Game Boy and Game Boy Color games. Nevertheless, it utilizes high-quality materials, such as a magnesium alloy shell and PBT buttons, and claims to be "virtually indestructible."
The Chromatic’s battery versatility is another noteworthy feature, capable of lasting 24 hours with three AA batteries. It supports rechargeable batteries and includes a lithium-ion pack for convenient charging.
Additional features include video output for gameplay capture, a link cable port for multiplayer gaming, a 3.5mm audio jack, and backward compatibility with original hardware for multiplayer functions.
ModRetro Chromatic Specifications
- Price: $199 (first edition bundle with Tetris cart)
- Compatibility: Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Chromatic cartridges
- Display: Backlit 2.56-inch IPS LCD
- Resolution: 160 x 144p
- Size: 5.2 x 3 x 1.2 inches, 6.2 oz
- Shell: Magnesium alloy
- Buttons: PBT face buttons and D-pad
- Battery: 24 hours with 3 AA batteries, includes rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack
- Audio: Internal speaker, 3.5mm headphone jack
- Ports: Link cable, 3.5mm audio, USB-C with video output
- Multiplayer: Backward compatible with original hardware
- Color Options: Gray (exclusive) and six other colors available
For those lacking a Game Boy library, additional Chromatic cartridges will be available for separate purchase, with seven games at launch and new releases planned monthly.
Launch Titles for the ModRetro Chromatic:
- In the Dark 2 – $40
- Chantey – $40
- Patchy Matchy – $30
- Traumatarium Penitent – $40
- Tales of Monsterland DX – $40
- Toki Tori: Ultimate Edition – $45
- Dragonyhm – $45
- Release Titles Bundle – $199
Stay tuned for more exciting updates on upcoming retro gaming hardware trends. Noteworthy devices include the Evercade VS-R and the Atari 7800+, both set to enhance the nostalgic gaming experience and deliver fresh titles for enthusiasts.
