Palmer Lucky doesn't know how to sit still. The one who was the father of the virtual reality glasses that changed everything seems to have new concerns, and his latest project draws directly on retro nostalgia. And Lucky has presented the ModRetro Chromatic, a GameBoy-style portable console compatible with original Game Boy and Game Color cartridges that boasts of offering a series of features that are not available in classic consoles with emulators.
A homemade Game Boy
The idea of ModRetro Chromatic is not new. It is another portable console with FPGA board which manages to imitate the behavior of a Game Boy Color, so that it accepts the connection of original Game Boy and Game Boy Color cartridges. It is somewhat similar to the Analogue Pocket and the Funny Playing Game Boy that we were already able to try (and assemble with our hands).
La ModRetro Chromatic It boasts of offering a pixel structure identical to the original Nintendo console, even managing to replicate the colors and that grid structure that characterized previous screens. According to its creators, it is a unique screen on the market that manages to imitate the original pixel structure, and that does not apply any software filter that imitates the classic pixelization effect. The resolution is 160 x 144 pixels, and its attraction is that it has current technology with backlight so that we can see the image even in direct sunlight.
Meet: The Chromatic.
A handheld game console designed with modern tech, but with retro soul. Compatible with all classic Game Boy®. and Game Boy®. Color cartridges.
First-edition handhelds are available for pre-order. Bundled with Tetris®. for Chromatic in the box.
First… pic.twitter.com/1fT8pqZwX8
— ModRetro (@ModRetroHub) June 3, 2024
It is a console that seeks to be faithful to the original experience, but with a premium finish, and that is something that will be noticed in the structure made of magnesium alloy. This results in a very light and very resistant body.
A special product
According to Lucky, the idea with this project is none other than to give the Game Boy the tribute it deserves, which is why, according to him, he has left a very attractive price so that all fans can get one. With a price of 185,95 Euros, the Chromatic will arrive accompanied by the game Tetris, and for now the only thing we can do is reserve one in our name, since shipments will not begin until the Christmas period of this year.
The console is scheduled to be distributed through GameStop, so it is very likely that we will see it in many other stores.
Source: Modretro