Analogue Pocket

Analogue Pocket

The Analogue Pocket is finally in stock at RetroGear, which is good news for anyone who takes their Game Boy collection seriously. This premium handheld plays original Game Boy, Game Boy Color and Game Boy Advance cartridges via FPGA hardware, without traditional software emulation.

You really notice this in the experience: you use your own cartridges, but play them on a modern device with a crystal-clear screen, USB-C charging and a finish that’s clearly top-of-the-range. This is one of the most sophisticated ways to rediscover your original handheld library.

Key features

• Plays original Game Boy, Game Boy -Colour and Game Boy -Advance cartridges
• Built using FPGA technology, so no traditional software emulation
• 3.5-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 1600 x 1440 and 615 ppi
• Original display modes for a look that’s closer to the original screens
• USB-C charging
• Built-in 4300 mAh battery, offering, according to Analogue, approximately 6 to 10 hours’ playing time
• Stereo speakers and a 3,5 mm headphone socket
• microSD slot for updates and Analogue OS features
• Original-style link port for compatible linking functionality
• Save states and screenshots via Analogue OS
• Support for optional cartridge adapters, such as Game Gear, Neo Geo Pocket, Atari Lynx and TurboGrafx-16

Why this model is special

It’s no coincidence that the Analogue Pocket is often regarded as the premium choice amongst FPGA-based handhelds. Whilst many retro handhelds rely primarily on software emulation and ROM files, the Pocket is specifically designed for original cartridges. You simply slot your Game Boy, Game Boy Colour or Game Boy Advance game into the device and play on hardware designed to replicate the original system behaviour as accurately as possible.

The screen is a major part of the appeal. The high resolution makes it possible to display classic handheld graphics with exceptional clarity, as well as to emulate original on-screen characters using display modes. This means you can choose between a sleek, modern look or a style that’s closer to the original ‘ Game Boy ’ experience.

It’s worth noting, however, what the Pocket isn’t. This isn’t a cheap all-in-one emulator handheld, and cartridges aren’t included. For systems other than Game Boy, Game Boy Color and Game Boy Advance, you’ll need separate adaptors, and the Analogue Dock for playing on a TV is also a separate accessory. It is precisely for this reason that the Pocket feels more like a serious collector’s item and gaming device than a quick, budget solution.

What you get

• Analogue Pocket
• USB-C cable

Cartridges, docks, adaptors, chargers and other accessories are only included if this is explicitly stated for the selected bundle.

Specifications

• Compatibility: Game Boy, Game Boy Colour and Game Boy Advance cartridges
• Technology: FPGA hardware
• Screen: 3.5-inch LCD
• Resolution: 1600 x 1440
• Pixel density: 615 ppi
• Display: variable refresh rate, original display modes
• Battery: rechargeable 4300 mAh lithium-ion battery
• Playing time: approximately 6 to 10 hours, according to Analogue
• Audio: stereo speakers, 3,5 mm headphone socket
• Storage/updates: microSD slot
• Connections: USB-C, original-style link port
• Controls: buttons can be customised via Analogue OS
• Optional: Analogue Dock, cartridge adaptors and Link/MIDI accessories

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Analogue Pocket play my original Game Boy cartridges?
Yes. The Pocket is designed for original Game Boy, Game Boy Colour and Game Boy Advance cartridges. That is precisely what the device is fundamentally intended for.

Does the Analogue Pocket work with ROMs?
Analogue’s official main selling point is cartridge compatibility: the Pocket plays legacy cartridges via the cartridge slot. The Pocket’s openFPGA capabilities do offer opportunities for developers and community cores, but that represents a different use case from simply inserting a cartridge. In terms of the user experience, original cartridge compatibility remains the most important and reliable feature.

Do I need adaptors?
This does not apply to the Game Boy, Game Boy Color and Game Boy Advance. For other handheld systems, such as the Game Gear, Neo Geo Pocket, Atari Lynx and TurboGrafx-16, separate analogue adaptors are required. These are not included as standard in the box.

Can I play it on the telly?
Yes, but you’ll need the Analogue Dock for that. It isn’t included as standard with the Pocket. With the Dock, you can play on a screen via HDMI and use controllers.

Are save states the same as saving to the cartridge?
No. A save state captures a snapshot of the game via the system. A normal save is stored by the game itself, usually on the cartridge. It is often discussed within the community that this difference is important, particularly with older cartridges or when moving saves.

Is the Analogue Pocket the best choice for everyone?
Not necessarily. If you’re mainly looking for an inexpensive handheld to play lots of games via emulation, there are cheaper options. The Pocket is particularly appealing if you have original cartridges, place a high value on picture quality and are looking for a premium FPGA experience.

Why buy from RetroGear?

The ‘ Analogue Pocket ’ is a product that many customers have been asking for, and it’s finally in stock at RetroGear. You can buy it from an online shop that specialises in retro gaming and hardware, with a focus on devices that aren’t just fun to own, but also genuinely add something to your collection.