Best Game Boy Ever? ModRetro Chromatic Review

This review delves into the ModRetro Chromatic, a high-end Game Boy remake, exploring its exceptional qualities alongside the complexities of its creator, Palmer Luckey.

The author, a seasoned tech journalist, reflects on his childhood fascination with military aircraft, contrasting it with his current perspective on the ethical implications of military technology. This introspection sets the stage for examining the Chromatic, a product linked to Anduril, Luckey’s defense contractor known for weaponized drones and surveillance systems.

Luckey’s persona is described as a “devout anime and video game lover” with an extensive collection housed in a decommissioned nuclear missile silo. His past as the creator of the Oculus Rift and his controversial political affiliations, including support for Donald Trump, are noted. The author raises concerns about the implications of supporting a company founded by someone with such a visible and controversial stance on military involvement.

The review acknowledges that many tech companies engage in military projects, but highlights the personal nature of Luckey’s involvement.

ModRetro Chromatic

The Good

• Incredible build quality
• Authentic Game Boy feel
• Good battery life
• Good speaker
• USB-C power

The Bad

• Palmer Luckey baggage
• Cramped for big hands
• No save states
• Headphone jack needs more volume
• Doesn’t play GBA games

The author concludes that while the Chromatic is an excellent product, the ethical considerations surrounding its creator leave a lingering unease.