Nintendo Game Boy Light vs Steam Deck

The Nintendo Game Boy Light and the Steam Deck are two gaming consoles that cater to different generations of gamers. The Game Boy Light, a classic handheld device, offers nostalgic gameplay experiences, while the Steam Deck, a modern handheld gaming PC, provides powerful performance and access to a wide range of games.

General information

Nintendo Game Boy Light
Steam Deck
Introduction :
The Nintendo Game Boy Light was released in 1998 as an updated version of the original Game Boy. It featured a backlit screen, making it easier to play in low-light conditions. The Game Boy Light was primarily sold in Japan and has since become a sought-after collector's item due to its limited availability. It is considered a classic handheld console that paved the way for future portable gaming devices.
Introduction :
The Steam Deck is a highly anticipated handheld gaming console developed by Valve Corporation, set to release in late 2021. It runs on a custom AMD APU and features a 7-inch touchscreen display. With the ability to play PC games on the go, the Steam Deck has generated a lot of excitement among gamers. It is expected to be a popular choice for those looking for a portable gaming experience with the power of a PC.
Advantages :
  • Backlit screen for improved visibility in low-light conditions.
  • Compact and portable design for on-the-go gaming.
  • Long battery life for extended gameplay sessions.
  • Compatible with a wide range of Game Boy games.
  • Durable construction for long-lasting use.
Advantages :
  • Portable design allows for gaming on the go
  • Powerful hardware for smooth gameplay performance
  • Extensive library of games available on Steam platform
  • Customizable controls for personalized gaming experience
  • Ability to connect to external displays for larger gaming sessions
Disadvantages :
  • Limited screen visibility in low light conditions
  • Lack of color display compared to newer consoles
  • Short battery life compared to modern handhelds
  • Limited library of games available
  • Fragile design prone to damage
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library compared to established consoles.
  • Potential hardware issues due to new technology.
  • Higher price point compared to other handheld consoles.
  • Limited availability and potential shipping delays.
  • Uncertainty of long-term support and updates.
Year launched : 1998
The Nintendo Game Boy Light was launched in 1998, offering gamers a backlit screen for improved visibility in low-light conditions. This enhanced version of the original Game Boy was popular among players.
Year launched : 2021
The Steam Deck was launched in 2021, offering a new and innovative handheld gaming experience for players looking to enjoy their favorite PC games on the go.
Manufacturer : Nintendo
The Nintendo Game Boy Light was manufactured by Nintendo, a renowned and iconic gaming company known for creating popular consoles and games that have shaped the industry for decades.
Manufacturer : Valve Corporation
Valve Corporation, known for the popular gaming platform Steam, is the manufacturer of the Steam Deck. This handheld gaming console combines the power of PC gaming with the portability of a handheld device.
🟡 Popularity : Average.
The Nintendo Game Boy Light was popular during its release in the late 90s, but its market share has decreased over time with the introduction of newer consoles. It still holds a nostalgic appeal for some gamers.
🟡 Popularity : Average.
The Steam Deck has generated moderate interest among gamers and tech enthusiasts. While not as popular as mainstream consoles like PlayStation or Xbox, it has carved out a niche market due to its unique features and capabilities.
Form factor : Handheld console.
The Nintendo Game Boy Light is designed as a portable console, allowing gamers to easily take it on the go for gaming on the move.
Form factor : Handheld console.
The Steam Deck is designed as a portable console, allowing gamers to take their favorite games on the go with a handheld form factor for gaming on the move.
Official website : https://www.nintendo.com/


Market and availability

Nintendo Game Boy Light
Steam Deck
Console markets :
The Nintendo Game Boy Light was exclusively available in Japan. It was not released in other markets, making it a sought-after collector's item for fans of retro gaming consoles.
Console markets :
The Steam Deck is available for purchase worldwide, with shipping options to most countries. However, availability may vary depending on demand and production capacity, so it's recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The Nintendo Game Boy Light is now considered retro and collectible due to its nostalgic appeal and limited availability. It holds value among collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts.
⚪ Collectible : Unknown.
The Steam Deck is a new console, so its retro/collectible status is currently unknown. Depending on its popularity and longevity, it may become a sought-after item in the future.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Nintendo Game Boy Light is moderately available on the secondhand market, with some units in good condition but prices can vary. Collectors may find it harder to locate in mint condition.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Steam Deck is relatively new, so availability may vary. While new units may be limited, secondhand market options could be more accessible. Keep an eye out for listings from reputable sellers.
🟡 Console cost : Average.
The Nintendo Game Boy Light is a sought-after collector's item, which can drive up the price on the second-hand market. However, its availability may vary, making its cost relatively average compared to other consoles.
⚪ Console cost : Unknown.
The relative cost of the Steam Deck is currently unknown as it is a new release and availability may vary. It is recommended to compare prices with other gaming consoles for a better understanding.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the Nintendo Game Boy Light are still available through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. However, some titles may be harder to find or more expensive due to the console's age.
🟢 Game availability : Good.
Steam Deck has a wide range of games available through the Steam platform, offering a diverse selection of popular and indie titles. Additionally, the console's compatibility with PC games enhances its game library.
🟡 Game costs : Average.
Games for the Nintendo Game Boy Light are relatively affordable on the second-hand market. While some rare titles can be expensive, most games are reasonably priced, making the overall cost of building a collection manageable.
🟡 Game costs : Average.
The relative cost of games for the Steam Deck is average compared to other games consoles. While some games may be more expensive due to exclusivity, overall prices are reasonable.


Technology

Nintendo Game Boy Light
Steam Deck
Architecture : 8-bit.
The Nintendo Game Boy Light uses an 8-bit architecture, providing simple yet classic gameplay experiences. Despite its limitations, the console's design and library of games have made it a beloved retro gaming device.
Architecture : 64-bit.
The Steam Deck uses a 64-bit architecture, providing powerful performance for gaming and multitasking. This architecture allows for smooth gameplay and efficient processing of graphics and data.
CPU : Sharp LR35902
The Nintendo Game Boy Light uses the Sharp LR35902 CPU, which is a modified version of the Zilog Z80 processor. It is a key component in powering the console's gameplay experience.
CPU : AMD Zen 2 architecture
The Steam Deck uses a custom AMD APU based on the Zen 2 architecture, offering powerful performance for gaming on the go. With 8 cores and 16 threads, it provides excellent processing power.
Memory : 32 Kb
The Nintendo Game Boy Light has 32 Kb of memory, allowing players to store game saves and progress. While limited by today's standards, it was sufficient for the games of its time.
Memory : 64 GB
The Steam Deck comes with 64 GB of internal storage, providing ample space for storing games, apps, and other content. This allows for a wide variety of games to be downloaded and played.
Video output : Composite
The Nintendo Game Boy Light has a composite video output connection, which may require an adapter to connect to a modern TV with HDMI inputs.
Video output : HDMI
The Steam Deck is equipped with an HDMI output connection, allowing users to easily connect the console to modern TVs and monitors for an enhanced gaming experience.
⚪ Graphics Processing : Unknown.
The specific details about the presence of a dedicated GPU in the Nintendo Game Boy Light are not readily available. Further research may be needed to determine the GPU configuration of this console.
🟢 Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Steam Deck is equipped with a dedicated GPU, providing enhanced graphics performance for gaming. This allows for smoother gameplay and better visual quality compared to integrated graphics solutions.
🔴 Internet connected : No.
The Nintendo Game Boy Light is not internet connected. It does not have any notable internet connectivity features such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi capabilities.
🟢 Internet connected : Yes.
The Steam Deck is internet connected through both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technology, allowing for online gaming, downloading updates, and accessing the Steam store for new games and content.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Nintendo Game Boy Light is cartridge-based. Players insert game cartridges into the console to play their favorite games on the go.
Game media format : Download.
The primary game format for the Steam Deck is digital downloads. Players can purchase and download games directly from the Steam platform onto the device for convenient access to their gaming library.


Gaming

Nintendo Game Boy Light
Steam Deck
Controllers : 1 controller, 1 player
The Nintendo Game Boy Light is a handheld console, allowing for single-player gaming with one controller. Its compact design makes it ideal for solo gaming on the go.
Controllers : Up to 4 controllers/players
The Steam Deck supports multiplayer gaming with up to 4 controllers or players connected to the console simultaneously, allowing for a fun and engaging gaming experience with friends and family.
⚪ Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The Nintendo Game Boy Light does not have built-in online multiplayer capabilities. However, there may be third-party accessories or modifications that could potentially enable online multiplayer functionality, but this is not standard.
🟢 Online multiplayer : Yes.
The Steam Deck allows for multiplayer online gaming, providing a seamless experience for playing with friends or other gamers around the world. Enjoy competitive matches and cooperative gameplay on this portable console.
🟡 Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the Nintendo Game Boy Light were released in a standard manner, with a good variety of games available. However, due to its age, finding specific titles may be more challenging.
🟢 Number of titles : Good.
Game titles for the Steam Deck have been released consistently with a wide variety of options available. The console's popularity has also led to a strong secondhand market for games.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Nintendo Game Boy Light has several exclusive and iconic games such as Pokemon Red and Blue, The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening, and Tetris, which are considered classics in the gaming world.
⚪ Featured games : Unknown.
The Steam Deck does not have any exclusive games announced at this time. It is primarily designed to run PC games and offer a portable gaming experience.


When choosing between the Nintendo Game Boy Light and the Steam Deck, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and gaming needs. If you’re looking for a retro gaming experience with a touch of nostalgia, the Game Boy Light is a great choice. On the other hand, if you want a versatile and powerful handheld gaming device that can run modern games, the Steam Deck is the way to go. Consider your gaming preferences and needs to make the right choice.