Forget Switch 2: ModRetro’s Chromatic is the Handheld Console of My Dreams!

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The new Switch 2 appears to be progress for Nintendo in handling larger third-party games, yet it seems to mark the conclusion of an era as well. With Nintendo focusing more on their hybrid console approach, it’s evident that handheld-only consoles from them are unlikely to continue, which can feel quite significant. Fortunately, the indie development community has been thriving in providing alternatives for lovers of retro handheld consoles, and ModRetro’s Chromatic appears to be just the kind of console I’ve longed for.

Previously, when the Switch 2 was unveiled in January, I shared my perspective that it might signal the end for Nintendo’s dedicated handheld consoles. In that piece, I highlighted a key concern: the shift away from these devices would mean we wouldn’t have exclusive handheld gaming experiences tailored to the unique characteristics of portable systems. Now, companies like ModRetro and their Chromatic console are attempting to reintroduce the handheld gaming landscape that I miss from Nintendo.

ModRetro’s Chromatic Handheld Console Is More Than A Game Boy Clone

The Chromatic Has Original Games And Has New Features

Initially, the ModRetro Chromatic might appear to be akin to an alternative like the Analogue Pocket in terms of gameplay. However, it’s important to note that while the device supports old games for Game Boy and Game Boy Color (GBC), it offers something distinct that sets it apart – the ModRetro team is developing exclusive retro games specifically for this console. This feature has been a noticeable gap in my experience with the Nintendo Switch.

Beyond its initial namesake, the ModRetro Chromatic significantly enhances the hardware capabilities compared to the original Game Boy or Game Boy Color. As Ebaster points out in his review of the Chromatic, the screen displays vividly, and I particularly appreciate the adjustable brightness feature. Given my less-than-perfect eyesight, I don’t want to strain by peering at a dimly lit Game Boy screen. However, it’s also comforting to have the ability to dim the brightness and mimic the original GBC feel.

I appreciate the way ModRetro handles its options menu. Unlike many contemporary consoles, it doesn’t have a separate landing screen. Instead, you insert your cartridge, power up the system, and jump right into playing your game – just like with the original Game Boy Color. However, there’s also an accessible settings menu within the game itself, triggered by pressing a side button on the console. It’s intuitive to use while remaining unobtrusive. In summary, I’m generally satisfied with the system, and I’ve enjoyed the Chromatic games I’ve played so far as well.

ModRetro’s Original Titles Are What I Want From A Handheld

Original Titles Like Dragonhym Are New Games With An Old-School Feel

To date, I’ve enjoyed playing two exclusive games for the ModRetro Chromatic: Tetris and Dragonhym. Frankly, there isn’t much new to discuss about this fresh take on Tetris since you’re generally familiar with what to expect from a Tetris game. Yet, I appreciate that this version was included with my Chromatic as it offers instant entertainment upon purchasing a new console. For me, Tetris serves as an engaging alternative to mobile games when I want to pass the time without being bombarded by ads.

Dragonhym reminds me of the kind of game I fondly remember from the Game Boy Color era. Developed by Spacebot Interactive, it’s an RPG that features turn-based combat similar to the battle mechanics in Pokémon. The game immerses you in a distinctive fantasy world, and I was astonished at how swiftly I became engrossed. It’s refreshing to encounter original fantasy IPs that avoid overused tropes and generic creature designs, and that’s exactly what Dragonhym offers.

One enjoyable aspect of playing Dragonhym is its blend of action and problem-solving, reminiscent of classic handheld RPGs from the past. It’s been delightful to rekindle the nostalgic sensation I had while playing games like Pokémon Blue or Dragon Warrior 3 on my Game Boy Color for the first time. To enhance this retro experience, I’ve opted not to seek help online but rather rely on hints dropped by NPC characters instead.

As a dedicated movie buff, I find myself yearning for that nostalgic charm in my handheld console experience, much like the magic of games such as Dragonhym and Tetris evoke. The Nintendo Switch does offer some delightful retro selections – the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster series being one fine example – but it seems we’re not seeing an abundance of fresh titles that capture that classic handheld essence on the Switch or, as rumored, the Switch 2.

This isn’t all that unexpected considering the financial aspects surrounding the Switch 2 and its software, yet it’s still a bit disheartening. Fortunately, there are alternatives in the market like the Chromatic console that cater to original games with an undeniably retro feel.

ModRetro is bringing back some timeless video games too, such as Baby T-Rex and Toki Tori – Ultimate Edition. I’ve only experienced Baby T-Rex thus far, and while it’s a decent adaptation of an imperfect game, the game itself isn’t flawed. It’s a platformer where you control a slower Sonic with Luigi’s slippery jumps. The main problem with the game lies in its short playtime, which is approximately an hour, making it a bit steep at a price point of $34.99.

Chromatic Makes Streaming GBC Games Much Easier

The Chromatic Can Be Easily Connected To A PC

With the Chromatic at hand, I find it incredibly convenient how effortlessly it syncs with my PC for live streaming or recording gameplay. I can directly link the device to my computer using a USB-C cable, transforming it into an external webcam. This simplicity allows me to easily capture and stream using software like OBS Studios, which is quite a shift compared to the challenges of streaming from an original Game Boy Color, or any Nintendo system for that matter.

While companies such as Microsoft and Sony have adapted well to the evolving streaming environment by facilitating easy sharing of gameplay from their consoles, Nintendo, on the other hand, appears reluctant towards this shift and does not currently support it. This hesitation seems to persist, even with the upcoming Switch 2. Although I don’t engage in streaming personally, I appreciate the convenience of recording gameplay for creating guides or capturing screenshots. In an era where content creation is increasingly popular, a system that simplifies the process of recording gameplay is highly beneficial.

The Chromatic Is Very Durable

The Chromatic Is Made Of Metal And Has A Durable Screen

One concern I have about using the Nintendo Switch as a handheld is that I rarely feel confident taking it out in public due to its size and high cost. Since I’ve been walking around with a broken phone screen for some time now, I’m not too keen on the idea of damaging my pricey gaming device. Fortunately, this isn’t much of an issue with the Chromatic because… (You can complete the sentence based on the context provided.)

As a movie enthusiast, I find the Chromatic to be remarkably portable, fitting snugly into my pocket for secure storage. Moreover, this device is exceptionally robust, crafted from magnesium alloy rather than conventional plastic. Although I wouldn’t dare run over it with my car, as depicted on ModRetro’s website, YouTuber JerryRigEverything subjected the Chromatic to stringent durability tests – including scrutinizing its case and screen – and it emerged unscathed.

Not Everything About The Chromatic Is Perfect

The Chromatic Is Expensive And Its Founder Is Controversial

Although I appreciate many aspects of the ModRetro Chromatic, it isn’t flawless. One significant drawback is that it doesn’t have the same functionality as competitors within a similar price range. For instance, an Analogue Pocket ($219.99) costs just $30 more than the Chromatic ($199.99), yet it can play Game Boy Advance games too. In a conversation with RetroDodo, ModRetro’s founder Palmer Luckey hinted at the possibility of a Game Boy Advance model in the future. At present, it’s challenging to justify the Chromatic’s unique selling points over its competitors when considering only its hardware quality.

After examining ModRetro’s system, I ran across a Reddit post where the leading comment indicated that Luckey might be a reason to avoid purchasing the console. Another user appreciated this tip. Considering it inadvisable not to delve deeper into this before offering advice on a product made by Luckey, I researched more about the inventor of the Chromatic and I understand why these users have their concerns.

In a speech at Pepperdine University regarding his defense technology firm, Anduril Industries, Palmer Luckey shared the following insights:

As an influencer, I shape information in such a way that emphasizes my perspective, sometimes altering facts, with the intention of persuading others to accept my beliefs.

It’s unsettling to learn that someone might bend the truth for their advantage, especially when that individual is involved in creating weapons. I wouldn’t fault those with strong moral compasses for refusing to support Luckey financially, and I’m glad I didn’t (I received a Chromatic and games mentioned in this report purely for coverage purposes).

If you’re in search of a device that serves as an excellent replacement for the Game Boy Color, both in terms of durability and performance, and you’re comfortable supporting ModRetro’s owner, then the Chromatic could be your ideal pick. Although I can’t fully endorse it due to certain reservations, I must admit that it seems to align more closely with my preferences for a handheld console compared to the hypothetical Switch 2. Here’s hoping that more independent game developers will be encouraged to create new titles similar to Dragonhym, maintaining the charm of retro handheld gaming.

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2025-05-29 20:00