As a seasoned retro gaming enthusiast with decades of experience under my belt, let me tell you that ModRetro’s Chromatic is nothing short of a marvel. I’ve seen my fair share of Game Boy mods and replicas, but this one takes the cake.
If you’re looking for a last-minute gift for a Nintendo fan who grew up during the Game Boy era, the newly released ModRetro Chromatic is one of the coolest retro gaming gadgets of 2024. The Chromatic is a modernized Game Boy Color that looks, plays, and feels like the real thing. Unlike most retro handhelds that aim to do a little bit of everything, the Chromatic is unabashedly committed to the singular goal of replicating the GBC experience as you fondly remember it. For the subset of retro gamers who crave authenticity, the Chromatic is an undeniable success. It’s also one of the best-built portable devices I’ve ever used.
Today, there are numerous retro gaming handhelds available, many of which attempt to emulate the legendary design of Nintendo’s Game Boy family. Most of these devices function as emulation units, delivering enjoyable experiences at affordable prices. However, unlike most of these devices that merely resemble the Game Boy in appearance, the Chromatic provides an experience remarkably similar to playing on a real one. It goes beyond simply paying tribute. If you’re a purist who prefers genuine hardware, whether unaltered or modified, the Chromatic comes as close as any I’ve ever tried to the authentic Game Boy experience. However, if someone were to put a Nintendo logo on it and claim that the Chromatic was Nintendo’s entry into the premium retro hardware market, I wouldn’t be convinced. Not because it lacks authenticity, but because it’s built with expensive components, which is something Nintendo would seldom do on a mass scale.
Established by Palmer Luckey, renowned for developing the Oculus Rift, ModRetro was founded. After selling Oculus VR to Facebook in 2014 for a staggering $2 billion, Luckey then co-founded Anduril Industries, a defense technology firm specializing in AI-driven military equipment like drones, which it sells to the Department of Defense. It seems that ModRetro is a labor of love for Luckey, as evidenced by the high-quality construction of the Chromatic, indicating that no expenses were spared in its creation.
The Chromatic device is capable of running any cartridges for both Game Boy and Game Boy Color systems, including those produced by Chromatic themselves. As the Chromatic operates as an FPGA gadget, your classic cartridges will function identically to how they did on the Atomic Purple Game Boy Color you regrettably let go during that yard sale years ago. Essentially, Chromatic-labeled cartridges are just rebranded versions of standard Game Boy carts that are compatible with original hardware.
The Chromatic device offers adjustable display options such as varying levels of brightness for its backlit screen, Frame Blending, and Color Correction specifically for enhancing gameplay on computer screens. However, it was deliberately created to mimic rather than enhance the visuals of the Game Boy Color. With its backlit screen, it closely resembles a modified Game Boy Color featuring an upgraded backlit panel. The Chromatic sports a 2.56-inch IPS LCD screen protected by sapphire crystal, which is nearly identical in size to the Game Boy Pocket’s display (slightly larger than the GBC’s at 2.3 inches).
For traditionalists who prefer playing games exclusively on authentic hardware, native resolution is frequently mentioned as a key factor. The Chromatic maintains the GBC’s 160 x 144 pixels resolution, ensuring each pixel is correctly sized and positioned. This contrasts significantly with the Analogue Pocket, boasting a 3.5-inch Gorilla Glass screen at an impressive 1600 x 1440 pixels resolution and 650 pixels per inch. While games function identically on the Pocket, its higher pixel density means they don’t appear identical. Opinions vary on whether they look better or worse, but it’s clear that the Pocket’s screen and technology are more advanced. It offers display settings mimicking various Game Boy models along with self-enhancing visual filters. This also allows the Pocket to reproduce the original Game Boy DMG’s green background color, a feat unattainable by the Chromatic; instead, it emulates Game Boy Color cartridges as they appeared on the Game Boy Color.
Although both the Chromatic and Pocket can run GB and GBC games, the Pocket offers additional capabilities. It plays GBA cartridges as well and supports adapters for various other platforms, making it more versatile than the Chromatic. The Chromatic is designed to provide an authentic Game Boy Color experience without requiring users to purchase or modify a genuine device. On the other hand, the Pocket is an openFPGA handheld that caters to multiple retro gaming platforms. Despite sharing the general shape of a Game Boy, it’s a larger device with improved visuals and numerous customization options.
As a gaming enthusiast, I had the pleasure of diving into the Analogue Pocket when it debuted in 2021, declaring it the ultimate platform for Game Boy games. Fast forward to today, and my admiration for it remains unchanged, but let me clarify that high-resolution gameplay with original pixel density isn’t what I prioritize. Instead, I find myself drawn to the Analogue Pocket due to its upscaled resolution.
From a feel perspective, the Chromatic’s uncommonly used Sapphire Crystal panel is no different from glass, though the technology is typically viewed as even more resistant to scratches than tempered and Gorilla Glass. A quick Google search will tell you that Sapphire can cost 10 times as much as Gorilla Glass. A 144p display utilizing one of the priciest materials possible is a peculiar combo, but that’s the theme with the Chromatic as a whole: ultra-premium.
The size of Chromatic’s casing is almost identical to that of a Game Boy Color, with dimensions 5.2 x 3 x 1.2 inches compared to the latter’s 5.26 x 3.1 x 1.08-inch shell. However, unlike the Game Boy Color’s plastic build, ModRetro used injection molding to fashion Chromatic’s magnesium alloy casing. Although metal casings for portable gaming devices aren’t rare, they are not common due to their higher cost. For example, Analogue and Boxy Pixel have released models with aluminum casings at prices of $499 and $72 or more respectively. The Chromatic was built using the pricier injection molding process, which ensures greater consistency and material strength. As a result, the Chromatic is heavier than the Game Boy, weighing 6.2 ounces without batteries compared to the latter’s 4.9 ounces with two batteries or 7.8 ounces with four. With three AA batteries inserted, it weighs around 9 ounces. While not heavy per se, for a device of its size, Chromatic has a noticeable weight due to its magnesium alloy casing. Despite this, the metal casing is highly valued and I wouldn’t trade it for plastic.
Without a shadow of a doubt, the Chromatic stands out as the strongest handheld device I’ve ever handled. Its construction is impeccable, boasting no flaws, squeaks, or inconsistencies whatsoever. However, it’s essential to note that its premium quality has one minor drawback. Just like the Game Boy Color, it’s compact in size. If you haven’t held a Game Boy as an adult, you might be taken aback by how small it is. For adults with average-sized hands, it took some getting used to adjust to the design and screen dimensions. The additional depth provides some relief, and Nintendo’s vertical Game Boys actually offer decent ergonomics. Comfortable for me, perhaps not for everyone, depending on your eyesight and hand size when it comes to the screen and shell dimensions.
Just like the rest of its construction, the buttons on this device are crafted from top-quality materials. In fact, the D-pad and the two face buttons are made using PBT, a thermoplastic often employed in premium mechanical keyboards’ keycaps. The D-pad boasts a slightly rough, matte surface, while the A and B buttons sport a sleek, glossy finish. Compared to standard Game Boy D-pads, this one is bigger and softer, enhancing comfort during play. It responds swiftly with each press, ensuring consistent travel distances. Moreover, its quiet operation sets it apart from many other controllers since it lacks the rattling or wobbling that’s common in some models. I believe the injection molding process played a crucial role in achieving this perfect fit.
The design of the front closely resembles the classic Game Boy, including the diagonal placement of the Start and Select buttons. Interestingly, the Chromatic takes a small design element from each version of the Game Boy it honors. However, its unique features are found on the sides and top. The power button is situated in the top-left corner. On the top-right corner, there’s an IR sensor for limited multiplayer functions such as trading Pokemon. For traditional multiplayer, the Link Cable port can be found on the left side and allows connection with other Chromatics, Game Boys, and Analogue Pockets. The volume controls are positioned on the right side, and the 3.5mm headphone jack is conveniently located at the bottom-right corner.
As a gamer diving into the immersive world of The Chromatic, I can tell you firsthand that this portable device truly shines when connected to a good pair of headphones. But let me tell you, the built-in speaker on this tiny powerhouse is nothing short of impressive. Labeled as a “custom ultra-loud speaker module,” it certainly lives up to its name. I cranked it up to the max with my office door shut, and my family could clearly hear it from another room. What really sets it apart, though, is the quality of the sound. Audio technology has come a long way since the ’90s, and The Chromatic showcases this progress beautifully, offering a delightful listening experience whether you’re using headphones or not.
The Chromatic device differs from Game Boys in that it lacks a button found on the latter, but instead, its power switch takes you directly to the cartridge, reminiscent of the past. However, it does have a button on the right side which opens a small menu for settings adjustments. This is where you can control display brightness, activate silent mode (silencing the sound output), and modify display options. Notably, this menu offers only two choices: Frame Blend and Color Correction. The former rectifies issues with games that the original Game Boy’s screen struggled to handle due to slow response times from older screen technology, where frames would effectively blend together. Color Correction is turned off by default, but it proves useful when connecting the Chromatic to a USB-C port.
You can link the Chromatic device to your computer using USB-C for live gameplay streaming via OBS. Unlike a typical video output, this isn’t about docking the Chromatic; instead, it enables streamers to broadcast their gameplay and play on a bigger screen without streaming, by merely starting a local OBS stream. When modern monitors work with retro hardware, color palettes might appear distorted, but that’s where Color Correction comes in handy to rectify the issue.
The Chromatic device operates with three regular AA batteries, which are included along with purchase and can also accommodate rechargeable versions. You might need to replace them every six to seven hours, depending on brightness settings. I advise using rechargeable Duracell or Energizer batteries for cost efficiency. Although it’s not available at the moment, ModRetro plans to sell a custom lithium-ion battery that can be charged via USB-C. Compared to original Game Boy hardware, the battery cover and clip seem sturdier.
The Chromatic device is made to play your vintage Game Boy and Game Boy Color games, but ModRetro has introduced their own line of Chromatic cartridges. At launch, seven games are offered, with additional ones coming in early 2025. Remade for the debut of Chromatic, two classic puzzle games from the Game Boy era are available. Like the original Game Boy in 1989, “first edition” Chromatic devices come pre-loaded with Tetris at launch, featuring authentic, officially licensed Tetris. This updated version of the timeless puzzle game offers vibrant and colorful 8-bit graphics, along with multiple customization options, such as switching between modern or classic rules. ModRetro also upgraded the GBC puzzle-platformer Toki Tori, much like Tetris, this newer version is improved through faster movement speed and automatic jumping.
Other games launched are independent titles developed by homebrew creators. Among them is one of the most awaited indie games in the Game Boy homebrew community: Dragonyhm, formerly known as Dragonborne DX. This expansive top-down adventure offers a delightful blend of Pokemon and Zelda elements that’s definitely worth exploring. In the Dark 2 is a story-driven, ingeniously puzzling game from the makers of Grimace’s Birthday, while Patchy Matchy, exclusive to Chromatic, is an engaging grid puzzle game perfect for casual play. Traumatarium Penitent is a stunning first-person dungeon crawler that I had already experienced when the digital version debuted this year; I also recommend its predecessor, Traumatarium. Lastly, Tales of Monsterland DX is an enhanced and extended version of one of the better homebrew Game Boy platformers I’ve played, similar to Wonder Boy if you enjoy that style.
Except for Tetris, which is included in Chromatic, all other games come housed in vintage-style cardboard boxes. These boxes feature artwork on the front and details about the game on the back. Upon opening the box, you’ll discover an instruction manual, a plastic holder for the cartridge, and a small trinket that can be attached to a charm bracelet (if you own one).
The Chromatic retails at $199 and comes in seven distinct hues: Inferno (vibrant orange), Leaf (rich green), Bubblegum (sweet pink), Volt (bright yellow), Wave (deep blue), Midnight (sleek black), and a unique gray reminiscent of the Game Boy DMG. The exclusive gray edition can only be purchased at GameStop, whereas the remaining colors are sold exclusively by ModRetro. Upon closer inspection, the Chromatic is just as visually appealing as it appears in photographs. The packaging for this handheld device might be the most stylish I’ve encountered; it’s designed to resemble a school notebook, featuring a fold-out front cover and a myriad of colorful doodles that adorn images of the handheld and the word “Chromatic” in bold bubble letters.
The bottom line
ModRetro’s Chromatic is a truly superb recreation of the Game Boy Color. If you want a near-exact replica of your childhood Game Boy with a backlit screen, this is the handheld for you. At $199, and even if you didn’t get a great new spin on Tetris, I’d argue the Chromatic is a bargain due to its ridiculously premium build. But this is a bargain for a very specific type of retro gamer. If you’ve been considering modding a Game Boy or buying a pre-modded one from a reseller, the Chromatic is arguably the highest-end modded Game Boy Color around. It’s not anywhere close to as versatile as the Analogue Pocket, but for those who want to play GB and GBC games as authentically as possible, the Chromatic is as real as it gets.
- Price – $199 for first edition bundle with Tetris cart
- Compatibility – Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Chromatic cartridges
- Display – 2.56-inch sapphire crystal backlit IPS LCD
- Resolution – 160 x 144p
- Size – 5.2 x 3 x 1.2-inch
- Weight: 6.2 ounces
- Shell – Magnesium alloy thixomolded shell
- Buttons – PBT face buttons and D-pad
- Battery – 6-7 hours with two AA batteries (from our testing)
- Audio – internal speaker, 3.5mm headphones
- Ports – link cable, 3.5mm audio, USB-C with video out for streaming with OBS
- Multiplayer – via backwards compatible link cable, IR sensor
- Colors – Inferno, Leaf, Bubblegum, Volt, Wave, Midnight, Gray
ModRetro provided TopMob with the Chromatic and game cartridges for the purpose of this review.
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2024-12-18 18:10