The Game Boy Micro 20th Anniversary Edition was a limited-edition handheld game console released by Nintendo in 2017 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the original Game Boy's release in Japan. Serving as a smaller, sleeker iteration of the Game Boy Micro, it retained the original's focus on portability and style, boasting interchangeable faceplates and a vibrant backlit screen. Though it arrived relatively late in the Game Boy Advance's lifespan, the 20th Anniversary Edition appealed to collectors and enthusiasts who appreciated its compact size and retro-inspired design.
While the Game Boy Micro 20th did not introduce significant hardware innovations compared to its predecessor, its release served as a nostalgic reminder of Nintendo's handheld legacy. It showcased the company's commitment to design and innovation, even in the twilight years of a successful platform. Despite its limited availability, the Game Boy Micro 20th Anniversary Edition remains a sought-after collectible, representing a significant moment in gaming history and a testament to the enduring appeal of the Game Boy brand. Its tiny form factor and commemorative design cemented its place as a unique and desirable piece of Nintendo's hardware lineage, celebrating two decades of handheld gaming excellence.
Reception was mixed. While praised for its sleek design and vibrant screen, some criticized its small size, which could be uncomfortable for extended play sessions. The lack of backwards compatibility with original Game Boy and Game Boy Color games was also a point of contention. However, its limited edition status and commemorative value ensured its popularity among collectors, solidifying its place as a unique and memorable piece of Nintendo's handheld history.
2017
NINTENDO
GAME BOY MICRO 20th
📜 History & Legacy
⚙️ Specifications
- ❖ CPU: 32-bit 16.8 MHz ARM7TDMI processor
- ❖ GPU: Integrated in the CPU, capable of displaying 32,768 colors
- ❖ RAM: 256 KB of embedded DRAM
- ❖ Storage: Game Pak (ROM cartridge)
- ❖ Media: Game Boy Advance Game Paks
- ❖ Screen: 2-inch backlit TFT LCD
- ❖ Resolution: 240 x 160 pixels
- ❖ Sound: Mono speaker
- ❖ Battery: Rechargeable lithium-ion battery (6-8 hours of gameplay)
- ❖ Connectivity: Link cable port for multiplayer gaming
🎮 Top 10 Games
- ★ Metroid Fusion
- ★ The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap
- ★ Advance Wars
- ★ Fire Emblem
- ★ Pokemon Emerald
- ★ Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga
- ★ Wario Ware, Inc.: Mega Microgames!
- ★ Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow
- ★ Final Fantasy VI Advance
- ★ Golden Sun
💡 Curiosities
- ? The Game Boy Micro 20th was released in limited quantities, making it a collector's item.
- ? It featured interchangeable faceplates, allowing users to customize the console's appearance.
- ? The screen was smaller but had a higher pixel density than the original Game Boy Advance.
- ? It was the last Game Boy console to use cartridges.
- ? The **Game Boy Micro 20th** did not have backwards compatibility with older Game Boy games.
- ? The 'Micro' in its name referred to its very small size, designed for ultimate portability.
- ? It was available in a variety of colors and special editions.
- ? The bright backlit screen made it easier to play in various lighting conditions.
- ? Despite its small size, it offered the same processing power as the original Game Boy Advance.
- ? The 20th Anniversary Edition featured a special commemorative design.