APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) vs Neo Geo Pocket Color

The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) and the Neo Geo Pocket Color are two gaming consoles from different eras. The APF MP1000 was released in the 1970s, while the Neo Geo Pocket Color came out in the late 1990s, offering different gaming experiences to users.

General information

APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000)
Neo Geo Pocket Color
Introduction :
The APF Microcomputer System, also known as the APF MP1000, was released in 1978 as one of the first microcomputer systems that could also play video games. It gained popularity in the US market for its unique combination of computer and gaming capabilities. While not as well-known as other consoles from the same era, the APF MP1000 has become a classic among retro gaming enthusiasts and collectors.
Introduction :
The Neo Geo Pocket Color was released in 1999 by SNK Corporation as a handheld gaming console. Although it was not as popular as other handhelds of its time, it gained a cult following for its impressive library of games and high-quality graphics. The console was primarily marketed in Japan and North America. Today, the Neo Geo Pocket Color is considered a classic and collectible item among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Advantages :
  • Retro gaming experience
  • Affordable price point
  • Compact and portable design
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Compatible with a variety of game cartridges
Advantages :
  • Portable and compact design, perfect for gaming on-the-go
  • Bright and vibrant color screen for an immersive gaming experience
  • Impressive library of games, including popular titles and exclusives
  • Long battery life for extended gaming sessions
  • Durable build quality for longevity and reliability
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library, lacks popular titles from other consoles.
  • Outdated graphics and sound capabilities compared to modern consoles.
  • Limited storage capacity for game saves and downloads.
  • Lack of online multiplayer capabilities for modern gaming experiences.
  • Limited availability of accessories and support for repairs or upgrades.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library compared to newer consoles.
  • Lack of online connectivity for multiplayer gaming.
  • Small screen size may strain eyes during long gaming sessions.
  • Short battery life compared to modern handheld consoles.
  • Limited availability of accessories and replacement parts.
Year launched : 1978
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) was launched in 1978, offering early gamers a range of cartridge-based games and basic computer functions in a compact system.
Year launched : 1999
The Neo Geo Pocket Color was launched in 1999, offering gamers a portable gaming experience with a color screen and a strong lineup of games, competing with other handheld consoles of the time.
Manufacturer : APF Electronics Inc.
APF Electronics Inc. was the manufacturer of the APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) gaming console. The company was known for producing a variety of electronic products during the 1970s and 1980s.
Manufacturer : SNK Corporation
SNK Corporation, a Japanese video game hardware and software company, manufactured the Neo Geo Pocket Color. Known for their arcade games, SNK brought their expertise to this handheld console, offering a unique gaming experience.
🔴 Popularity : Low.
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) is considered to have low relative popularity among games consoles. It had limited sales and market penetration compared to other consoles of its time.
🔴 Popularity : Low.
The Neo Geo Pocket Color had limited sales compared to other consoles of its time, with a niche market of dedicated fans. Its popularity was overshadowed by competitors like the Game Boy Color.
Form factor : Home console.
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) is designed as a home console, meant to be used in a stationary setting for gaming and computing purposes.
Form factor : Handheld console.
The Neo Geo Pocket Color is a portable console designed for gaming on the go, featuring a compact form factor that can easily be carried and played anywhere.


Market and availability

APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000)
Neo Geo Pocket Color
Console markets :
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) was primarily available in the United States and Canada during the 1970s. It was not widely distributed in other regions.
Console markets :
The Neo Geo Pocket Color was primarily available in Japan and North America. It had limited availability in Europe and other regions, making it more popular in the Japanese and North American markets.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) is now considered retro and collectible. Its unique design and limited availability have increased its value among retro gaming enthusiasts.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The Neo Geo Pocket Color is now considered retro and collectible, with a dedicated fan base driving up demand. Its unique library of games and nostalgic appeal make it a sought-after item for collectors.
⚪ Console availability : Unknown.
The availability of the APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) in the current market is uncertain. It may be challenging to find both new and secondhand units due to its age and limited production.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Neo Geo Pocket Color is moderately available on the secondhand market. While not as common as mainstream consoles, it can still be found through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores.
🟢 Console cost : Low.
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) is considered low in cost due to its limited availability and lack of popularity compared to other retro gaming consoles. It can often be found at affordable prices on the second-hand market.
🟡 Console cost : Average.
The Neo Geo Pocket Color is considered to have an average relative cost due to its availability on the second-hand market. Prices can vary depending on the condition and included games.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the APF Microcomputer System are somewhat available through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. However, the selection may be limited compared to more popular consoles from the same era.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the Neo Geo Pocket Color can be found through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. Some titles may be harder to come by due to the console's limited popularity, but a decent selection is still available.
⚪ Game costs : Unknown.
The relative cost of games for the APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) is unknown due to limited availability and information on pricing in the current market. It may vary depending on rarity and demand.
🟡 Game costs : Average.
Games for the Neo Geo Pocket Color are relatively affordable on the second-hand market, making them an average cost option for collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts.


Technology

APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000)
Neo Geo Pocket Color
Architecture : 8-bit.
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) uses an 8-bit architecture, which was common for consoles of its era. This architecture allowed for simple graphics and gameplay compared to newer consoles.
Architecture : 16-bit.
The Neo Geo Pocket Color uses a 16-bit architecture, providing a good balance of performance and graphics capabilities for its time. This allowed for a wide variety of colorful and engaging games.
CPU : MOS 6502
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) uses the MOS 6502 CPU, a popular 8-bit microprocessor known for its use in various gaming consoles and home computers during the 1970s and 1980s.
CPU : Toshiba TLCS900H core
The Neo Geo Pocket Color uses a Toshiba TLCS900H core for its CPU, providing efficient processing power for its games and applications.
Memory : 2 Kb
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) has 2 Kb of memory, which was standard for gaming consoles of that era. This limited memory capacity influenced the types of games that could be developed.
Memory : 16 Kb
The Neo Geo Pocket Color 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 : RF
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) has RF video output connection, which may require an RF modulator to connect to modern TVs.
Video output : Composite
The Neo Geo Pocket Color has a composite video output connection, which may require an adapter to connect to modern TVs that typically use HDMI or other digital connections.
⚪ Graphics Processing : Unknown.
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) does not have clear information available regarding a dedicated GPU. Further research may be needed to determine its graphics processing capabilities.
🟢 Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Neo Geo Pocket Color does have a dedicated GPU, which contributes to its impressive graphics performance for a handheld console of its time, allowing for smooth gameplay and vibrant visuals.
⚪ Internet connected : Unknown.
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) is an older console and it is unclear if it has internet connectivity capabilities such as ethernet or wifi. Further research may be needed.
🔴 Internet connected : No.
The Neo Geo Pocket Color is not internet connected. It does not have any notable features such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi for online connectivity.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) is cartridge-based. Games are played by inserting cartridges into the console for gameplay.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Neo Geo Pocket Color is cartridge-based, with games being inserted into the console for gameplay. This format was common for handheld consoles of that era.


Gaming

APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000)
Neo Geo Pocket Color
Controllers : 2
The APF MP1000 supports two wired controllers for multiplayer gaming, allowing for two players to enjoy games together on the console.
Controllers : 2 controllers / 2 players
The Neo Geo Pocket Color supports 2 controllers for 2 players, allowing for multiplayer gaming experiences. Players can enjoy competitive or cooperative gameplay on this handheld console.
⚪ Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) is primarily a single-player console with limited information on multiplayer capabilities. Further research is needed to determine if online multiplayer is supported.
🔴 Online multiplayer : No.
The Neo Geo Pocket Color does not have online multiplayer capabilities as it was released before online gaming became mainstream. Multiplayer functionality is limited to local play with link cables.
🟡 Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the APF Microcomputer System were released in a fairly average manner, with a decent selection available. However, finding these games today may be a bit challenging due to the console's rarity.
🟡 Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the Neo Geo Pocket Color were released in a decent quantity, but due to the console's limited popularity, finding some titles may be a bit challenging in the secondhand market.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) has exclusive games such as Space Destroyers, Blackjack, and Pinball. These titles are iconic for the console and offer unique gameplay experiences.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Neo Geo Pocket Color has several exclusive and iconic games such as SNK vs. Capcom: The Match of the Millennium, Metal Slug: 1st Mission, and Sonic the Hedgehog Pocket Adventure.


Ultimately, choosing between the APF Microcomputer System and the Neo Geo Pocket Color depends on your preferences for gaming technology and the types of games you enjoy. The APF MP1000 offers a retro gaming experience, while the Neo Geo Pocket Color provides a more modern and portable gaming experience. Consider your gaming priorities before making a decision.