ModRetro Chromatic review

The ModRetro Chromatic is a bold new reimagining of the Game Boy Color, created with both nostalgia and quality of life improvements in mind. At first glance, it’s clear this isn’t your average retro handheld. Built by ModRetro – a startup co-founded by Palmer Luckey of Oculus fame – the Chromatic is a modern tribute to the device that popularized handheld gaming. But where many retro-inspired devices opt for emulation and plastic shells, the Chromatic embraces original hardware compatibility and a level of build quality that pushes it firmly into premium territory.

Aesthetically, the Chromatic immediately sets itself apart thanks to its magnesium alloy shell. This choice makes it significantly more durable and rigid than plastic alternatives, while also delivering a satisfyingly cool, metal-in-your-hands feel. It’s sleek, yet retro in all the right ways, and the construction leaves a strong first impression the moment you pick it up. The sapphire crystal display cover further elevates its ruggedness, offering excellent scratch resistance and a sense of polish that few handhelds – even modern ones – can match.

From a hardware standpoint, the standout component is the 2.56-inch 160×144 IPS display. This may sound modest by modern standards in terms of resolution, but it’s a perfect match for Game Boy and Game Boy Color titles. More importantly, it’s not just backlit but also sunlight-readable – something very few handhelds can genuinely claim and perfect for car rides. The ability to game comfortably outdoors, even under direct sunlight, makes this an excellent travel companion. And when playing indoors, the display maintains consistent brightness and clarity thanks to its high contrast and viewing angles.

What truly sets the Chromatic apart from emulator-based devices is its FPGA-based architecture and full compatibility with original Game Boy and Game Boy Color cartridges. There’s no (software) emulation layer here – games run exactly as they were intended to, right from the cartridge. It even supports original accessories like link cables and infrared communication, however niche that may be. This makes it a genuine successor to Nintendo’s handhelds rather than a mere tribute. The inclusion of Chromatic-branded carts also opens the door for new homebrew and indie games, which is an exciting prospect for those still creating for the platform – and we’ll be taking a look at some of them very soon.

While the core experience feels delightfully familiar, there are also modern touches that improve usability. For example, the console supports USB-C video out to a PC, allowing for lagless capture – which is useful for streamers or content creators. The audio has also been improved with a custom loudspeaker that’s noticeably crisper and punchier than what you’d get from vintage hardware, though purists might still prefer headphones, which are thankfully supported via a standard 3.5mm jack.

Battery life is one area that is going to spark a bit of debate, as it did for us. The Chromatic is powered by three AA batteries, just like the original Game Boy. This reinforces its nostalgic appeal, but in 2025, it feels like a compromise – especially when competitors have long since moved to built-in lithium batteries and you now have to bring a pack of batteries when going on vacation. The good news is that ModRetro will offer a rechargeable battery pack down the line, and the flexibility of swappable batteries does bring some convenience if you’re traveling light and want a quick swap but don’t have access to an outlet.

As for comfort and controls, the PBT buttons and d-pad feel tactile and responsive, and the overall form factor sits nicely in your hands. At 6.2 oz (or 172 grams), it’s lightweight enough for long sessions but retains a dense, premium feel. ModRetro has even included a charm point on the shell, which is a fun nod to personalization for those who want to decorate their handheld.

All things considered, the ModRetro Chromatic strikes a fine balance between reverence and reinvention. It’s a machine clearly designed by people who love handheld gaming, and who aren’t afraid to build something more premium than the average retro device. While the reliance on AA batteries might divide opinion and the price point puts it in enthusiast territory, there’s little else quite like it. For those seeking the definitive way to replay their Game Boy library with modern quality-of-life enhancements, the Chromatic may well be the dream device they’ve been waiting for. It’s the best Game Boy ever made, with its reliance on batteries being our only gripe – though they last longer than you’d expect and will get you through even the longest of flights out there. And did we mention it comes bundled with Tetris?