The Analogue Pocket Gets Four New Aluminum Limited Editions: A Collector’s Dream, But At a Price

The Analogue Pocket, a retro gaming enthusiast’s dream device, has received a luxurious upgrade with the announcement of four new Aluminum Limited Editions. Building upon the success of the original Pocket released in late 2021, these new models boast a premium build crafted entirely from precision CNC’d aluminum.

This upgrade isn’t just about aesthetics; the aluminum construction promises both enhanced durability and a lighter weight compared to the original plastic shell. But with a price tag of $499, these limited-edition Pockets come at a significant premium over the standard $399 model.

Unboxing a Piece of Retro Gaming History

The Analogue Pocket has carved a niche for itself in the retro gaming market. Unlike traditional emulators that rely on software to mimic older consoles, the Pocket utilizes a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) to offer cycle-accurate emulation. This translates to a near-perfect recreation of the original gaming experience, down to the tiniest details in visuals and sound.

The original Pocket, with its high-quality plastic build and vibrant 3.5-inch LCD screen, was already a compelling option for retro gamers. However, the allure of the Aluminum Limited Editions lies in their premium materials and exclusivity. The aluminum construction promises a more robust feel in hand, potentially appealing to gamers who value a touch of luxury alongside their retro fix.

The limited-edition Pockets come in four distinct colors:

• Indigo: A deep, luxurious blue that evokes a sense of classic elegance.
• Natural: A sleek silver finish that highlights the raw beauty of the aluminum material.
• Noir: A sophisticated dark grey that exudes a timeless charm.
• Black: A classic black option for those who prefer a more understated look.

These color choices cater to a range of preferences, allowing collectors to choose a Pocket that complements their existing retro gaming setup or personal style.

Beyond the Bling: Performance and Compatibility

While the aluminum build is the star of the show, it’s important to remember that the core functionalities of the Pocket remain unchanged. Here’s a quick refresher on what the Analogue Pocket offers:

• Native Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance Support: The Pocket plays your original cartridges flawlessly, offering an authentic experience with no compromises.
• FPGA Magic: The FPGA technology allows for cycle-accurate emulation, ensuring games run exactly as they did on the original consoles.
• Modern Enhancements: The Pocket boasts a beautiful LCD screen, dock connectivity, wireless functionality, and the ability to connect to modern controllers via Bluetooth.
• Expanding Horizons: The Pocket isn’t limited to just Game Boy titles. Through additional modules (sold separately), it can also play games from other retro consoles like the Neo Geo Pocket Color, Atari Lynx, and Sega Game Gear.

The Aluminum Limited Editions maintain all these capabilities, making them a powerful and versatile retro gaming device wrapped in a luxurious shell.

A Collector’s Conundrum: Price and Availability

The biggest hurdle for most potential buyers will likely be the price tag. At $499, the Aluminum Limited Editions are a significant $100 more expensive than the standard Pocket. This hefty price increase is primarily due to the premium materials and limited production run.

For casual retro gamers, the standard Pocket might be a more practical option. However, for collectors seeking a truly unique and luxurious retro gaming experience, the Aluminum Limited Editions hold immense appeal.

Here’s what you need to consider if you’re interested in snagging one of these limited-edition Pockets:

• Availability: Orders go live on July 15th at 11 AM ET. Given the limited quantities and past trends, these are expected to sell out quickly. Setting reminders or alarms is highly recommended.
• Collectible Value: As limited editions, these Pockets have the potential to become valuable collector’s items down the line. However, this is purely speculative, and the investment should be made based on your passion for retro gaming, not on potential resale value.

The Analogue Pocket: A Celebration of Retro Gaming

The Analogue Pocket, in both its standard and Aluminum Limited Edition forms, is a love letter to retro gaming. It offers a way to revisit classic titles with stunning clarity and near-perfect emulation, all while boasting modern conveniences like a beautiful screen and wireless connectivity.

The Aluminum Limited Editions elevate the experience further with their premium materials and exclusivity. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply a passionate retro gamer, the Analogue Pocket offers a compelling proposition. Just be prepared to make a decision – and potentially empty your wallet a little faster – when these limited-edition beauties hit the market on July 15th.