Nintendo Game Boy Pocket vs TurboGrafx-16

The Nintendo Game Boy Pocket and the TurboGrafx-16 are two iconic gaming consoles from the past. The Game Boy Pocket is a handheld device known for its portability and classic games, while the TurboGrafx-16 is a home console with a strong library of unique titles.

General information

Nintendo Game Boy Pocket
TurboGrafx-16
Introduction :
The Nintendo Game Boy Pocket was released in 1996 as a smaller and lighter version of the original Game Boy. It quickly became popular among gamers for its portability and improved screen visibility. The Game Boy Pocket is considered a classic in the handheld gaming market and is highly sought after by collectors for its nostalgic value and iconic library of games.
Introduction :
The TurboGrafx-16, released in 1989 by NEC Corporation, was a pioneer in the gaming industry with its 16-bit graphics and CD-ROM capabilities. Although it was not as popular as other consoles of its time, it has gained a cult following and is considered a classic among retro gaming enthusiasts. The console was primarily marketed in Japan and North America, and its unique library of games makes it a sought-after collectible for gaming collectors.
Advantages :
  • Compact size makes it easy to carry around.
  • Long battery life for extended gaming sessions.
  • Compatible with a wide range of Game Boy games.
  • Affordable price point for budget-conscious gamers.
  • Durable design that can withstand everyday wear and tear.
Advantages :
  • Extensive library of unique and innovative games to explore. - Compact size makes it easy to store and transport. - Ability to play both HuCard and CD-ROM games. - Superior graphics and sound capabilities for its time. - Multiplayer options for competitive and cooperative gameplay.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited screen visibility in low light
  • Lack of backlight for screen
  • Short battery life compared to newer consoles
  • Limited color options for display
  • Limited sound quality compared to newer consoles
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library compared to other consoles.
  • Expensive and hard-to-find games and accessories.
  • Lack of popular third-party support.
  • Limited graphics and sound capabilities compared to competitors.
  • Fragile hardware prone to technical issues and malfunctions.
Year launched : 1996
The Nintendo Game Boy Pocket was launched in 1996, offering a more compact and lightweight version of the original Game Boy, making it easier for gamers to take their favorite games on the go.
Year launched : 1987
The TurboGrafx-16 was launched in 1987, offering gamers a unique gaming experience with its advanced graphics and sound capabilities. It was ahead of its time in terms of technology and innovation.
Manufacturer : Nintendo
The Game Boy Pocket was manufactured by Nintendo, a renowned and iconic company in the gaming industry known for creating popular consoles and games loved by fans worldwide.
Manufacturer : NEC Corporation
The TurboGrafx-16 was manufactured by NEC Corporation, a Japanese multinational electronics company. Known for its innovative technology, NEC created the TurboGrafx-16 to compete in the gaming console market.
🟡 Popularity : Average.
The Nintendo Game Boy Pocket had moderate popularity during its release, with a significant number of units sold. It was a popular choice among handheld gaming enthusiasts, but faced competition from other portable consoles.
🔴 Popularity : Low.
The TurboGrafx-16 had limited success in the market, with lower sales compared to its competitors like the NES and Sega Genesis. It struggled to gain a significant market share and popularity.
Form factor : Handheld console.
The Nintendo Game Boy Pocket is designed as a portable handheld console, allowing gamers to enjoy their favorite games on the go. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around.
Form factor : Home console.
The TurboGrafx-16 is designed as a home console, meant to be connected to a TV for gaming. It is not a portable unit and is best enjoyed in a stationary setting.
Official website : https://www.nintendo.com/


Market and availability

Nintendo Game Boy Pocket
TurboGrafx-16
Console markets :
The Nintendo Game Boy Pocket was available in various markets worldwide, including North America, Europe, Japan, and other regions. It was widely popular and sold in many countries during its release.
Console markets :
The TurboGrafx-16 was primarily available in North America and Japan, with limited availability in Europe. It was not widely distributed in other regions, making it a sought-after console for collectors worldwide.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The Nintendo Game Boy Pocket is now considered retro and collectible due to its nostalgic appeal and limited availability. It holds value among collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The TurboGrafx-16 is now considered a retro and collectible console, with a dedicated fan base and increasing demand for its games and accessories in the collector's market.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Nintendo Game Boy Pocket is moderately available in the secondhand market. While not as common as newer consoles, it can still be found with some searching, especially for collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The TurboGrafx-16 is moderately available on the secondhand market, with some units in good condition but may be harder to find compared to more popular consoles. Collectible versions may be more scarce.
🟢 Console cost : Low.
The Nintendo Game Boy Pocket is considered low in cost due to its age and availability in the second-hand market. It can be found at affordable prices for retro gaming enthusiasts.
🟡 Console cost : Average.
The TurboGrafx-16 is considered an average cost console due to its availability in the second-hand market. Prices can vary depending on the condition and included accessories.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the Nintendo Game Boy Pocket are still available through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. However, some titles may be harder to find or more expensive due to their collectible nature.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the TurboGrafx-16 are available through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. Some titles may be harder to find or more expensive due to the console's limited release and cult following.
🟢 Game costs : Low.
Games for the Nintendo Game Boy Pocket are relatively inexpensive due to their age and availability in the second-hand market. This makes it a cost-effective option for retro gaming enthusiasts.
🔴 Game costs : High.
The relative cost of games for the TurboGrafx-16 is considered high due to the limited availability of games and the popularity of the console among collectors, leading to higher prices in the second-hand market.


Technology

Nintendo Game Boy Pocket
TurboGrafx-16
Architecture : 8-bit.
The Nintendo Game Boy Pocket uses an 8-bit architecture, which was common for handheld consoles in the early 1990s. Despite its lower processing power compared to modern consoles, it was highly popular for its time.
Architecture : 8-bit.
The TurboGrafx-16 uses an 8-bit architecture, which was common during the late 1980s. This architecture allowed for colorful graphics and fast gameplay for its time.
CPU : Sharp LR35902
The Nintendo Game Boy Pocket uses the Sharp LR35902 CPU, which is a modified version of the Zilog Z80 processor. It is a low-power, 8-bit processor known for its efficiency.
CPU : HuC6280
The TurboGrafx-16 uses the HuC6280 CPU, which is an 8-bit microprocessor with a clock speed of 7.16 MHz. It is known for its audio processing capabilities and was specifically designed for gaming consoles.
Memory : 32 Kb
The Nintendo Game Boy Pocket has 32 Kb of memory, allowing players to save game progress and data. While small by today's standards, it was sufficient for the games of its time.
Memory : 8 Kb RAM, 64 Kb VRAM
The TurboGrafx-16 has 8 Kb of RAM and 64 Kb of VRAM, allowing for smooth gameplay and graphics for its time. While small by today's standards, it was impressive in the late 1980s.
Video output : Composite
The Nintendo Game Boy Pocket has a composite video output connection, which may require an adapter to connect to a modern TV that typically uses HDMI inputs.
Video output : Composite
The TurboGrafx-16 has composite video output connections, which may require an adapter to connect to modern TVs that typically use HDMI inputs.
⚪ Graphics Processing : Unknown.
The specific details about the GPU in the Nintendo Game Boy Pocket are not widely documented. Due to the console's age and simplicity, it is unclear if it has a dedicated GPU.
🟢 Graphics Processing : Yes.
The TurboGrafx-16 has a dedicated GPU, the HuC6270, which was known for its impressive performance capabilities during its time, allowing for smooth graphics and gameplay on the console.
🔴 Internet connected : No.
The Nintendo Game Boy Pocket is not internet connected. It does not have any notable internet connectivity features such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi capabilities.
⚪ Internet connected : Unknown.
The TurboGrafx-16 does not have built-in internet connectivity features like Ethernet or Wi-Fi. It primarily focuses on providing a high-quality gaming experience without online capabilities.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Nintendo Game Boy Pocket is cartridge-based. Players insert game cartridges into the console to play their favorite games on the go.
Game media format : .
The primary game format for the TurboGrafx-16 is the HuCard, which are small, credit card-sized cartridges that are inserted into the console to play games.


Gaming

Nintendo Game Boy Pocket
TurboGrafx-16
Controllers : 1 controller, 1 player
The Nintendo Game Boy Pocket is a handheld console designed for single-player gaming, with one controller built into the device for solo play on the go.
Controllers : 2
The TurboGrafx-16 supports up to 2 players with wired controllers. This allows for multiplayer gaming experiences on the console, making it a great option for gaming with friends or family.
⚪ Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The Nintendo Game Boy Pocket does not have built-in online multiplayer capabilities. However, some games may support link cables for local multiplayer, but online multiplayer is not possible.
⚪ Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The TurboGrafx-16 does not have built-in online multiplayer capabilities. However, there may be third-party adapters or modifications available to enable online multiplayer functionality.
🟡 Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the Nintendo Game Boy Pocket were released in physical cartridges, with a decent selection available. While some titles are harder to find now, the secondhand market offers a variety of options for collectors.
🟡 Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the TurboGrafx-16 were released in an average manner, with a decent selection available. Some titles may be harder to find due to the console's limited popularity, but overall, there are options for players.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Nintendo Game Boy Pocket has several exclusive and iconic games such as Pokemon Red and Blue, The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening, and Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The TurboGrafx-16 has several exclusive and iconic games such as Bonk's Adventure, Splatterhouse, and Ys Book I & II, which are highly regarded by retro gaming enthusiasts.


When choosing between the Nintendo Game Boy Pocket and the TurboGrafx-16, consider your gaming preferences and whether you prefer portable or home console gaming. The Game Boy Pocket is great for on-the-go gaming, while the TurboGrafx-16 offers a different gaming experience with its diverse game library. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your gaming needs and preferences.