CHROMATIC

As an engineer who runs an electronics company fully capable of developing a device like this, I approached the ModRetro Chromatic with both curiosity and high expectations. It has exceeded them in every respect.

The standout feature is unquestionably the display. It captures the exact resolution and visual character of the original Game Boy and Game Boy Color, yet with modern-day clarity and readability that make playing an absolute joy. The experience is faithful but elevated — these classic games have never looked so good.

Over the past week, I’ve revisited cartridges I owned decades ago and explored titles I missed the first time around. Each one feels fresh, vivid, and alive in a way I last experienced 25–35 years ago, when the hardware itself was new and the technology was still finding its limits.

The ModRetro Chromatic is not just a nostalgic trip; it’s the definitive way to experience the Game Boy library today. For anyone who values both authenticity and quality, it’s a remarkable achievement.

I own three ways to play GB/GBC carts (FPGBC, GB Operator, Chromatic) and each one has its place. While the Chromatic might be the most expensive by a good margin, it's also the one I feel most comfortable with throwing in a bag and going due to its extremely high build quality and scratch resistant screen. It's also the more comfortable to play thanks to the enlarge d-pad and game compatibility is a bit better than the FPGBC's. The Chromatic's screen gets BRIGHT and I've settled on about half the default brightness. Battery life is huge with modern batteries or the Modretro rechargeable battery (~8 hours). My only cons: The buttons are loud due to their high clickiness and the speaker is a bit too authentic, I would have liked to see an option for original sound or higher fidelity sound. Headphones are a thing though and you should use them. If the price is right for you, the Chromatic won't disappoint.