Neo Geo Pocket Color

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 :
  • 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 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 : 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 : 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 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 : 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

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 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 : 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 : 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 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 : 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

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 : 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 : 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 : 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 : 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 : 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 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

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 : 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 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 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.