If Lockheed Martin were to release a Game Boy, would you consider purchasing one? Back in the 1990s, I was captivated by military aircraft and the sleek designs of Lockheed Martin. As a kid, I was drawn to the F-117A “Stealth Fighter” and the legendary SR-71. If Lockheed had released a jet-black Game Boy during that time, I would have eagerly bought one without a second thought. However, as I’ve grown older, I’ve come to realize the deeper implications of supporting a company that primarily manufactures weapons. Lockheed’s products are used in conflicts around the world, and I don’t have control over how they are utilized.
This reflection on Lockheed Martin was prompted as I tested the ModRetro Chromatic, a high-end remake of Nintendo’s Game Boy. The Chromatic is a top-notch device for playing Game Boy and Game Boy Color games, but it is connected to Anduril, a defense contractor founded by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus Rift. Luckey has strong opinions on weapons, war, and politics, and has hosted fundraisers for Donald Trump at his own home.
While many tech companies have ties to the military, the ModRetro Chromatic stands out as a product with a specific viewpoint on these issues. Despite its excellent build quality and authentic Game Boy feel, the Chromatic comes with the baggage of Luckey’s controversial background. It lacks modern features like save states and the ability to play Game Boy Advance games.
Luckey’s personal connection to the Game Boy is evident in the design of the Chromatic, which aims to recreate the experience of playing on the original handheld devices. The device uses FPGA technology to emulate the processors of the Game Boy and Game Boy Color, resulting in responsive and authentic gameplay. While the lack of modern amenities may be a drawback for some users, the Chromatic offers a nostalgic and pure gaming experience that stays true to the roots of the Game Boy.