I thought it was about time I tried writing a hardware review. Especially considering a recent purchase of something I've been after for quite some time. A limited edition Analogue Pocket by Analogue.
"They're notoriously difficult to buy"
Isn't that just a GameBoy?
You'd be forgiven for thinking so.
While it does play GameBoy cartridges, it also plays GameBoy Advance games and (with adapters) Game Gear, Neo Geo Pocket Color, Atari Lynx and more.
It's a multi-video-game-system portable handheld. A digital audio workstation with a built-in synthesizer and sequencer. A tribute to portable gaming. It's also a beautiful example of expert product design.
What makes it special?
Handheld emulators are experiencing a resurgence at the moment and there are lots of popular devices available to consumers. But the vast majority of these rely on software emulation to play games.
But let's start with the specs.
- Compatible with Game Boy, Game Boy Color and Game Boy Advance game cartridges.
- 3.5" LCD. 1600×1440 resolution. 615ppi.
- 360° display rotation (tate mode)
- Variable refresh display
- Rechargeable lithium ion 4300mAh battery
- 6-10 hour gameplay time & 10+ hour sleep time 9
- All buttons mappable
- Stereo speakers
- micro SD card slot
- USB-C charging
- Original-style link port
- 3.5mm headphone output
The screen is gorgeous. Super crisp pixels at a full ten times the original GameBoy resolution.
Not emulation
"openFPGA is purpose built for preserving video game history."
openFPGA is the first purpose built, FPGA driven hardware and ecosystem designed for 3rd party development of video game hardware. Created specifically for preserving video game history to play, study, academic use, and scholarly purposes. Engineered for decentralization.