Now This Is How You Update a Classic Console
While it remains unclear whether Nintendo will release a Game Boy Classic Edition this year similar to the insanely popular NES and SNES models, Hyperkin has decided to take matters into their own hands. The peripheral manufacturer is currently working on an updated version of the classic Game Boy tentatively called the Ultra Game Boy.
According to a CES 2018 report from Gizmodo, the Ultra Game Boy has an all aluminum design, which should prevent it from getting too dinged up when you throw it in your bag. It also retains the original’s volume and contrast dials, but a third dial (which will be included in the final design) will allow you to adjust the new backlit LCD display’s RGB spectrum. There will also be an option to turn off the backlight for a more authentic Game Boy experience.
Further improving upon the original model is a built-in rechargeable battery that will last six hours. There’s a USB-C port for charging, stereo speakers, as well as left and right audio-out connections. The reason for stereo speakers is for allowing musicians to create modern chiptunes using the handheld.
Hyperkin is hoping that the Ultra Game Boy will be ready for a late Summer 2018 release with a price tag below $100. There won’t be any pre-installed games like Nintendo’s Classic Edition consoles. It will, instead, play all original Game Boy cartridges and possibly Game Boy Color carts as well. If you’re interested in the Ultra Game Boy, you’d better start looking for your old games right away.
What do you make of the Ultra Game Boy? Let us know in the comments below.