# Hardware Replication Gaming Handhelds The Chromatic from ModRetro Uses FPGA to Play GameBoy Games By Colin Smith | Published 2024-06-04 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/modretro-chromatic References: [modretro](https://modretro.com/products/chromatic-tetris-bundle)  The Chromatic, offered by [ModRetro](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/retro-gaming-controllers), is a cartridge-based gaming handheld designed to be compatible with [Game Boy](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/modretro), Game Boy Color, and Chromatic cartridges. It boasts the world’s only 160x144 pixel sunlight-readable backlit display, which is protected by a super scratch-resistant sapphire front crystal. The device is encased in a magnesium alloy shell and features ultra-durable PBT buttons. For sharing gameplay moments, it includes a USB video out. The Chromatic is celebrated for its FPGA-based emulation, ensuring games play exactly as their creators intended. The Chromatic is set to start shipping around Christmas 2024 and is currently available for preorder. The device is priced at $199, which includes a bundled [Tetris](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wireless-plug-play-systems) cartridge. This pricing positions the Chromatic as a competitive option in the retro gaming market, offering a blend of nostalgic gameplay with modern construction and durability. Image Credit: ModRetro ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.8/10 - Popularity: 58% | Activity: 60% | Freshness: 25% - Audience gender: 90% men, 10% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Fpga-based Emulation:** The Chromatic’s use of FPGA technology for game emulation ensures precise gameplay fidelity, setting a new standard for hardware replication in retro gaming. - **Sunlight-readable Backlit Displays:** Featuring the world’s only 160x144 pixel sunlight-readable backlit display for handheld gaming devices, the Chromatic addresses usability issues often faced in bright environments. - **Durable Premium Materials:** Encased in a magnesium alloy shell and equipped with ultra-durable PBT buttons, the Chromatic highlights the growing trend of premium, long-lasting materials in gaming hardware. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Retro Gaming Hardware:** The Chromatic’s compatibility with Game Boy cartridges taps into the expanding market of retro gaming enthusiasts looking for modern reinventions of classic devices. - **Portable Electronics:** By combining a scratch-resistant sapphire front crystal and a sunlight-readable display, the portable electronics industry sees innovative advancements in durability and outdoor usability. - **Consumer Electronics:** The introduction of high-quality materials and precise emulation technologies in the Chromatic showcases evolving consumer expectations for premium features in electronic devices. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Retro Handheld Consoles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/modretro.md) - [Game Console Replication Kits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fpgbc.md) - [Crystalline Handheld Gaming Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/analogue-pocket-transparent-limited-editions.md) - [Vibrant Retro Handheld Gaming](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pocket-classic.md) - [Compact Retro-Inspired Handhelds](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/retro-pixel-pocket.md) - [Nostalgic Clamshell Handhelds](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rg34xxsp.md) - [Hardware-Based Emulation Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/analogue-3d.md) - [Revived Game Cartridges](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rayman-30th-anniversary-edition.md) - [Nostalgic Handheld Gaming Units](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/analogue-pocket-gbc-colors-edition.md)