Amiga CD32 vs Neo Geo Pocket

The Amiga CD32 and Neo Geo Pocket were both popular gaming consoles in the 1990s, each offering unique features and a diverse selection of games. The Amiga CD32 was known for its advanced graphics and multimedia capabilities, while the Neo Geo Pocket was praised for its portable design and impressive library of arcade-style games.

General information

Amiga CD32
Neo Geo Pocket
Introduction :
The Amiga CD32 was released in 1993 as the first 32-bit CD-ROM based video game console. It was popular in Europe and Canada but did not see much success in the US due to legal issues. Despite its short lifespan, the Amiga CD32 has become a classic among retro gaming enthusiasts and collectors, with a library of over 130 games available for the system.
Introduction :
The Neo Geo Pocket was a handheld gaming console released by SNK in 1998. It was known for its high-quality graphics and arcade-style games. While it was not as popular as other handheld consoles at the time, it has since gained a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts. The console featured a unique click-stick for precise controls and had a short lifespan before being discontinued in 1999. It has become a sought-after collectible for gaming collectors.
Advantages :
  • Extensive library of classic games
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Compact and sleek design
  • Ability to play audio CDs
  • Affordable price point
Advantages :
  • Portable and compact design makes it easy to take on-the-go.
  • High-quality graphics and sound for an immersive gaming experience.
  • Impressive library of games available, including popular titles.
  • Long battery life allows for extended gaming sessions.
  • Durable construction ensures longevity and reliability.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library compared to newer consoles.
  • Outdated graphics and sound capabilities.
  • Lack of online multiplayer functionality.
  • Limited storage capacity for game saves.
  • Fragile CD drive prone to malfunction.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library
  • Small screen size
  • Lack of backlight
  • Short battery life
  • Limited multiplayer options
Year launched : 1993
The Amiga CD32 was launched in 1993, offering gamers a unique gaming experience with its CD-based games and advanced graphics capabilities, setting it apart from other consoles of its time.
Year launched : 1999
The Neo Geo Pocket was launched in 1999, offering a portable gaming experience with a focus on arcade-style games. Despite its short lifespan, it gained a dedicated fan base.
Manufacturer : Commodore
Commodore, a well-known computer manufacturer, produced the Amiga CD32 games console. It was one of the first 32-bit CD-based gaming systems, offering a wide range of titles for players to enjoy.
Manufacturer : SNK
SNK, a Japanese video game hardware and software company, manufactured the Neo Geo Pocket. Known for their arcade games, SNK brought their expertise to the handheld gaming market with this console.
๐Ÿ”ด Popularity : Low.
The Amiga CD32 had limited success in the market, with low sales numbers compared to other consoles of its time. It struggled to compete with more popular options, leading to its relative obscurity today.
๐Ÿ”ด Popularity : Low.
The Neo Geo Pocket had relatively low popularity compared to other consoles. It had a niche market and sold fewer units, making it less well-known among gamers.
Form factor : Home console.
The Amiga CD32 is designed as a home console, meant to be connected to a TV for gaming. It is not intended to be portable and is best enjoyed in a living room setting.
Form factor : Handheld console.
The Neo Geo Pocket is designed as a portable console, making it easy to take on the go for gaming on the move. Its compact size and battery-powered operation cater to on-the-go gaming experiences.
Official website : https://www.commodore.ca/


Market and availability

Amiga CD32
Neo Geo Pocket
Console markets :
The Amiga CD32 was primarily available in Europe, particularly in the United Kingdom and Germany. It was not widely released in North America or other regions, making it a more niche console in terms of market availability.
Console markets :
The Neo Geo Pocket was primarily available in Japan and North America. It had limited availability in other regions such as Europe and Asia through importation or specialty retailers.
๐ŸŸข Collectible : Yes.
The Amiga CD32 is now considered retro and collectible, with a growing market for vintage gaming consoles. Its unique library of games and nostalgia factor contribute to its value.
๐ŸŸข Collectible : Yes.
The Neo Geo Pocket is now considered retro and collectible due to its limited release and unique library of games. Collectors and fans of classic handheld consoles are seeking out these devices, increasing their value.
๐ŸŸก Console availability : Average.
The Amiga CD32 can be found on the secondhand market fairly easily, but prices can vary depending on condition and included games. It is considered a collectible item among retro gaming enthusiasts.
๐ŸŸก Console availability : Average.
The Neo Geo Pocket can be found secondhand fairly easily, but new units are rare. Collectors may have better luck finding limited edition models or bundles in good condition.
๐ŸŸก Console cost : Average.
The relative cost of the Amiga CD32 is average due to its availability in the second-hand market. Prices can vary depending on the condition and included accessories, making it a reasonable option for retro gaming enthusiasts.
๐ŸŸก Console cost : Average.
The Neo Geo Pocket is considered to have an average cost in the market. While it may not be as expensive as some rare consoles, it is also not as affordable as more common options.
๐ŸŸก Game availability : Average.
Games for the Amiga CD32 can be found through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. While not as widely available as newer consoles, there is still a decent selection for collectors and enthusiasts.
๐ŸŸก Game availability : Average.
Games for the Neo Geo Pocket can be found through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. Some titles may be harder to come by, but there is a decent selection available for collectors and enthusiasts.
๐ŸŸก Game costs : Average.
The cost of games for the Amiga CD32 is relatively average. While some titles may be harder to find and more expensive due to the console's rarity, there is still a decent selection available at reasonable prices.
๐ŸŸก Game costs : Average.
Games for the Neo Geo Pocket can vary in price, with some titles being more affordable due to their availability in the second-hand market. Overall, the cost of games for this console is considered average.


Technology

Amiga CD32
Neo Geo Pocket
Architecture : 32-bit.
The Amiga CD32 uses a 32-bit architecture, allowing for more advanced graphics and processing capabilities compared to older 16-bit consoles. This architecture provides a smoother gaming experience.
Architecture : 16-bit.
The Neo Geo Pocket uses a 16-bit architecture, providing a decent level of performance for its time. This allowed for smooth gameplay and graphics on the handheld console.
CPU : Motorola 68EC020
The Amiga CD32 uses the Motorola 68EC020 CPU, a 32-bit processor with a clock speed of 14.32 MHz. While not as powerful as modern CPUs, it was sufficient for gaming and multimedia tasks at the time.
CPU : Toshiba TLCS900H core
The Neo Geo Pocket uses a Toshiba TLCS900H core for its CPU, providing efficient processing power for gaming experiences on this handheld console.
Memory : 2 MB
The Amiga CD32 has 2 MB of memory, which was considered impressive for a games console during its time. This allowed for smooth gameplay and immersive gaming experiences.
Memory : 16 Kb
The Neo Geo Pocket has 16 Kb of memory, which was sufficient for storing game data and save files for the handheld console's library of games.
Video output : Composite
The Amiga CD32 has a composite video output connection, which may require an adapter to connect to modern TVs that typically use HDMI or component inputs.
Video output : Composite
The Neo Geo Pocket only has a composite video output connection, which may require an adapter to connect to modern TVs that typically use HDMI or other digital connections.
๐ŸŸข Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Amiga CD32 is equipped with a dedicated GPU, providing enhanced graphics performance for a more immersive gaming experience compared to consoles without a dedicated GPU.
๐ŸŸข Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Neo Geo Pocket has a dedicated GPU, providing enhanced graphics performance for its games. This feature contributes to the overall gaming experience on this handheld console.
โšช Internet connected : Unknown.
The Amiga CD32 does not have built-in internet connectivity. It does not have Ethernet or Wi-Fi capabilities, making it unable to connect to the internet for online gaming or browsing.
๐Ÿ”ด Internet connected : No.
The Neo Geo Pocket is not internet connected. It does not have any notable features such as Ethernet or WiFi for online connectivity.
Game media format : CD.
The primary game format for the Amiga CD32 is CD-ROM. This console was one of the first to utilize CDs for gaming, offering larger storage capacity and enhanced graphics.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Neo Geo Pocket is cartridges. Players insert game cartridges into the console to play their favorite games on the go.


Gaming

Amiga CD32
Neo Geo Pocket
Controllers : 2 controllers
The Amiga CD32 supports up to 2 controllers for multiplayer gaming experiences. Players can enjoy games together with a friend or family member on this classic console.
Controllers : 2 controllers / 2 players
The Neo Geo Pocket allows for two players to connect and play simultaneously using two controllers. This enables multiplayer gaming experiences and competitive gameplay on the console.
โšช Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The Amiga CD32 was primarily a console for playing single-player or local multiplayer games. Online multiplayer capabilities were not a standard feature of this console, so its online multiplayer capabilities are unknown.
๐Ÿ”ด Online multiplayer : No.
The Neo Geo Pocket does not have online multiplayer capabilities due to its age and lack of internet connectivity features. Multiplayer gaming is limited to local connections between consoles.
๐ŸŸก Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the Amiga CD32 were released in an average manner, with a decent selection available. However, due to the console's limited popularity, some titles may be harder to find or more expensive in the secondhand market.
๐ŸŸก Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the Neo Geo Pocket were released consistently during its time on the market, but due to its limited popularity, finding games today can be a bit challenging. However, dedicated collectors can still find a decent selection available for purchase.
๐ŸŸข Featured games : Yes.
The Amiga CD32 has several exclusive and notable games such as Alien Breed, Banshee, and Guardian. These games are iconic to the CD32 console and are highly regarded by fans.
๐ŸŸข Featured games : Yes.
The Neo Geo Pocket has several exclusive and iconic games such as 'King of Fighters R-1', 'Metal Slug: 1st Mission', and 'SNK vs. Capcom: The Match of the Millennium'.


Ultimately, choosing between the Amiga CD32 and Neo Geo Pocket comes down to personal preference. If you’re looking for a home console with cutting-edge technology and a wide range of games, the Amiga CD32 may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a portable gaming experience with a focus on arcade classics, the Neo Geo Pocket could be the perfect fit. Consider your gaming preferences and needs to make the right decision.