Tag: Game Boy Color

December 6, 2024
Modretro Chromatic: Sapphire Test for Game Boy Color Screen
The Modretro Chromatic is now being marketed as the “ultimate retro cartridge gaming console” because it can play all the Game Boy and Game Boy Color games you might still have lying around.
Screen Quality and Durability
Its screen matches the size and resolution of the original Nintendo handheld, but Modretro suggests that their version is less prone to scratches thanks to its “sapphire” display. JerryRigEverything’s Zach Nelson took a break from his usual smartphone testing to check that the screen scratches at level 8, which is higher than the typical level 7 or lower (though he didn’t use the gem-tester this time).
Build and Design
The Chromatic passed the bend test due to its “magnesium alloy” body. It is designed to be the same size and shape as the original Game Boy Color, and it even features the original tri-wing screws to keep it assembled.
The new retro gaming console appears to replicate everything the original device offered (except for the translucent purple color, which the Anbernic RG35XX available on Amazon does offer). However, it still requires AA batteries, as Modretro has yet to launch its promised USB-C rechargeable option.
Drawbacks
Other issues include that the internal coin battery needed for saving games requires soldering skills to change, and the bright, vibrant display is not easy to repair on its own since it’s affixed to the sapphire cover with glue.
The Chromatic can be purchased directly from Modretro for $199/€190.95 as of now.
Tags: Game Boy Color, JerryRigEverything, Modretro Chromatic
October 30, 2024
New Super Mario Bros. Demake for Game Boy Color with Yoshi
A familiar classic returns.
A developer known as Mico27 has recently introduced a port or "demake" of the classic Super Mario Bros. designed for the Game Boy Color. It’s important to highlight that this project is quite distinct from Nintendo’s own version, Super Mario Bros. Deluxe, which hit the shelves in 1999. In contrast to Nintendo’s adaptation, Mico27’s creation showcases smaller graphics tailored for the Game Boy Color’s screen and is packed with additional content.
Super Mario Bros. Mini Unveiled
The project is named Super Mario Bros. Mini. It includes the complete original game from 1985, resized to suit the smaller display of the Game Boy Color. All eight worlds are included, along with every enemy, block, coin, and all the other familiar elements players would anticipate.
New Features and Additions
Moreover, Super Mario Bros. Mini introduces several new features. A standout addition is the level select option, allowing players to choose which world and level they wish to begin at. This can be activated by pressing the B button on the title screen. As players browse through the available levels, they’ll discover an extra 8 worlds to explore, totaling 16 in all. Furthermore, there are new bosses from Super Mario Land (the first Super Mario game for the Game Boy) and a fresh power-up: Yoshi.
Yoshi, Mario’s ancient companion, acts similarly to a short-range fire flower. Although the dinosaur cannot eat enemies in this version, its tongue can be quite deadly.
Unique Aspects of the Game
There are several unique aspects to this title. For instance, only one projectile (be it a fireball or Bullet Bill) can be displayed on the screen at a time. The controls seem a bit more rigid compared to the original NES game, and the music tends to cut off frequently to accommodate sound effects. Nevertheless, Super Mario Bros. Mini is a fascinating and true-to-form port that feels well-suited for the Game Boy Color.
The ROM file size is a substantial 2048 KB, which is comparable to other Game Boy Color hits like Pokemon Crystal and Wario Land 3. You can obtain a ROM to play on original hardware from here.
Consider purchasing a renewed Atomic Purple Game Boy Color from Amazon.
You can find Mico27’s work on itch.io.
Tags: Game Boy Color, Mico27, Super Mario Bros. Mini