The Game Boy Pocket: A Slimmer Successor in 1996

The Game Boy Pocket was the successor to the original Game Boy released in 1996. This handheld console was a significant step forward in portability and user convenience for Nintendo’s iconic gaming device. Launched in Japan on July 21, 1996, and then in North America on September 3, 1996, the Game Boy Pocket was designed to be a smaller, lighter, and more energy-efficient alternative to its predecessor. It marked a vital evolution in the Game Boy series, building on the success of the original while addressing some of its limitations.

Introducing the Game Boy Pocket

The Game Boy Pocket wasn’t simply a cosmetic redesign. It was a strategic move by Nintendo to capitalize on the success of the original Game Boy by offering a more refined and appealing product. One of the primary changes was a significant reduction in size. The Game Boy Pocket was approximately 30% smaller than the original, making it much easier to slip into a pocket or bag—hence the “Pocket” moniker. This reduction in size also came with a decrease in weight, making it more comfortable to hold and play for extended periods.

Key Features of the Game Boy Pocket

The Game Boy Pocket included several key upgrades while maintaining backward compatibility with Game Boy games. Here are some of the notable features:

• Smaller and Lighter Design: The most noticeable change was the reduction in size and weight, making it significantly more portable.
• AAA Battery Power: Unlike the original Game Boy, which required four AA batteries, the Game Boy Pocket utilized just two AAA batteries. This change made the unit lighter and more cost-effective, as AAA batteries were generally less expensive.
• Improved Battery Life: Despite using smaller batteries, the Game Boy Pocket was more energy-efficient, providing approximately 10 hours of gameplay on a single set of AAA batteries.
• Enhanced Screen: While the display remained monochrome, the screen technology was improved for better contrast and visibility.
• Redesigned Ports: The Game Boy Pocket featured redesigned link cable and headphone ports.

The Game Boy Legacy

The release of the Game Boy Pocket in 1996 was an important moment in the history of handheld gaming. It demonstrated Nintendo‘s commitment to innovation and responsiveness to consumer demand. By introducing a smaller and more portable version of their successful console, they successfully broadened the appeal of the Game Boy brand. This device set the stage for further Game Boy iterations, which ultimately cemented the franchise as a major force in gaming history.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Game Boy

1. What was the first Game Boy ever released?

The original Game Boy was first released in Japan on April 21, 1989. It launched in North America later in the same year, and then in Europe in late 1990. This 8-bit handheld console revolutionized portable gaming.

2. How many Game Boy models are there in total?

There are seven official models in the Game Boy family. These include:

• Game Boy (1989)
• Game Boy Pocket (1996)
• Game Boy Light (1998)
• Game Boy Color (1998)
• Game Boy Advance (2001)
• Game Boy Advance SP (2003)
• Game Boy Micro (2005)

3. Was the Game Boy Pocket the second Game Boy model?

Yes, the Game Boy Pocket, released in 1996, was the second official Game Boy model to be released, after the original Game Boy in 1989.

4. What came after the Game Boy Pocket?

Following the Game Boy Pocket, Nintendo introduced the Game Boy Light in 1998 (only in Japan), and the Game Boy Color, also in 1998.

5. What was the price of the original Game Boy at launch?

The original Game Boy cost $89.95 when it was launched in the U.S. on July 31, 1989.

6. When did production of the original Game Boy end?

Production of the original Game Boy continued until 2003, even after the release of its second successor, the Game Boy Advance, in 2001.

7. Why was the Game Boy discontinued?

The Game Boy was discontinued to make way for newer consoles. While critically acclaimed, the original Game Boy was considered technologically inferior to some of its rivals in its era.

8. What is the oldest video game console ever released?

The oldest video game console was the Magnavox Odyssey, which was released in 1972.

9. Is the Game Boy an 8-bit console?

Yes, the Game Boy is an 8-bit fourth-generation handheld game console developed and manufactured by Nintendo.

10. Is the Game Boy from the 80s or 90s?

The original Game Boy was first released in 1989, making it primarily an 80s console. However, it gained most of its popularity in the early 90s.

11. How long did the Game Boy Pocket’s batteries last?

The Game Boy Pocket utilized two AAA batteries, which provided approximately 10 hours of gameplay. This was a significant improvement over the original Game Boy which had a relatively shorter battery life.

12. How old is the Game Boy Color?

The Game Boy Color was released in Japan on October 21, 1998, and in international markets in November of the same year.

13. Is the Game Boy a toy?

Yes, in 2009, the Game Boy was inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame, acknowledging its impact on gaming culture and its role as a toy.

14. Was the Game Boy Pocket the second Game Boy model?

Yes, the Game Boy Pocket was the second Game Boy model in the family, following the original Game Boy.

15. How much did the Game Boy Pocket cost at launch?

The Game Boy Pocket had a launch price of US$69.99 in Japan.