> CHICIO CODING_Pixels. Code. Unplugged.
Game Boy
Released:1989
Acquired:1992
Architecture:8 bit
Generation:4th
Hardware specs
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| CPU | Sharp LR35902 8-bit, 4.19 MHz |
| System RAM | 8 KB |
| VRAM | 8 KB |
| Audio | 4-channel waveform (stereo via headphone) |
| Storage | Cartridge |
| Video Output | LCD 160×144, 4 shades monochrome |
| Architecture | 8-bit |
Trivia & Fun Facts
- The Game Boy was designed by Gunpei Yokoi based on his philosophy "Kareta Gijutsu no Suihei Shikō" ("Lateral Thinking with Seasoned Technology"). Instead of chasing cutting-edge (and expensive) tech, he used mature, affordable components—like the monochrome screen—to ensure the console was durable, cheap, and had incredible battery life.
- Nintendo initially planned to bundle Super Mario Land with the console. However, Henk Rogers convinced Nintendo of America’s president, Minoru Arakawa, that while Mario appealed to kids, Tetris appealed to everyone. This decision is credited with the Game Boy's massive crossover success.
- While its color-screen competitors (like the Sega Game Gear) devoured six AA batteries in just 3–5 hours, the original Game Boy provided up to 30 hours of gameplay on just four AA batteries.