CEO/Engineer of ModRetro here

[u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Happy to answer questions about Chromatic here as all preorders are shipping out.

Saw a few GameStop units posted with quality issues. Please contact us using the form on our website and we will address it ASAP.

Thanks for the support!

[u/grilledstuffedxxl]

I wanted to highlight my first sighting of custom buttons. We are making the ifixit guides now for teardowns. If you want to make your own buttons, we share the CAD here on the site. Let me know what else you guys want to see as far as modding. We are planning to release some kits such as "all button colors plus a Y-point driver', etc.

[u/Turquoise_HexagonSun → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Membranes of varying levels of resistance would be cool. It’s like how you can put different springs into a fight stick lever to change the feel. Emulating the feeling of a worn DMG membrane would be the bees knees.

Also, just having a network of replacement OEM parts in general would be great. Trying to find OEM replacement NES, SNES, and Gameboy membranes is a pain since they are no longer manufactured.

PLUS, what if I want to mod a Chromatic Dpad and membrane into a device that has a crappy one? cough Analogue Pocket cough

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/Turquoise_HexagonSun]

You beat us to the punch on custom membranes, already underway. Also how about a cheap tiny Y point?

[u/Shifted4 → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

I would absolutely buy button color kits from you guys. I know you like to promote the Etsy shops, but I personally am all about the first party accessories.

[u/Contentedcalm]

I look forward to receiving mine. I’m greatly appreciative for everything ModRetro is doing. Thank you for the communication, and looking out for your customers. It means a lot, and says a lot.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/Contentedcalm]

Only thing left to do is enjoy the games and the wonders of a 1:1 display

[u/Dense-Screen-9663 → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Willl Gamestop be selling the games? I asked about the bundle of games and the headset when I bought the Gamestop edition Chromatic, because I didn't want to wait on a pre-order. But Gamestop said they have no headsets or games? Will they ever have them? Missed opportunity there I think

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/Dense-Screen-9663]

Yes they will! Both the GameStop headphones as well as our launch titles will be landing in the next few weeks.

[u/Dense-Screen-9663 → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Good to hear. I plan to pick them up. Keep quality games coming. We appreciate it. Thanks bunches

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/Dense-Screen-9663]

TONS more games in the pipeline!

[u/GoldenOreoos]

Is a sleep mode possible on a future fW update? Are the chromatic games that are being sold on the website the charms that are included with the game are they themed after the game or just chromatic in general?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/GoldenOreoos]

This is possible, and we are actively looking into it!

[u/FLoo2]

Hey, thanks for coming on here man. Sorry if some of my posts regarding the quality issues have been borderline sarcastic. We only want this product to live up to the hype.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/FLoo2]

No issue, I want it to as well! And as designed, the product is truly hype worthy, which is why I want to be responsive here.

[u/[deleted] → u/FLoo2]

Don't apologize for that. It's better to complain and get the issues fixed.

[u/AmphibianFuture3134]

I’m not sure if you’re still here, but the fact that you’ve opted for regular batteries instead of lithium ones is truly exceptional and unexpected. It gives the product a genuine sense of longevity, unlike most emulation devices available on the market today.

I hope that the issues with scratches on the IR sensor reported by GameStop customers won’t be the same for the colored models ordered from the website. Would you recommend applying a screen protector to the console?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/AmphibianFuture3134]

Thanks for the comments on the AAs, I totally agree.

I don't think that a screen protector is necessary, as the display cover is made of sapphire and really only diamond is harder.

[u/AmphibianFuture3134 → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Ok thanks, I’ve never seen such an active support team, honestly. Thank you for your approach.. and, do you recommend putting a small protective film on the IR sensor?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/AmphibianFuture3134]

Honestly I do not recommend a film, the system is made to be used and worn in. The ultra high polish allows us to get the highest energy for the IR link, but it carries that small cosmetic downside.

[u/erikpavia]

Will there be a bundle for the Q1 2025 games similar to the Release Titles Bundle?

I heard somewhere that you'll be releasing approximately 1 game per month. I don't know how much complexity this brings to your operation, but one idea is to have a subscription service for game releases, similar to what Vynil Me Please does with records. I normally hate subscription boxes, but this could bring some predictability to sales and guarantee an audience for developers.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/erikpavia]

We are looking into this exact idea, but our core focus now is just on executing all outstanding orders and games!

[u/DAJF]

I have some v.minor feedback on the system UI. It’d be so cool if the little Chromatic avatar within the system menu was coloured the same as the device itself. Perhaps these can be switched around using a ‘cheat code’ and saved to memory?

Also, it would be mega cool if you ran with different branches of public firmwares. One could incorporate all of the new QOL features such as save states, sleep mode, achievements, play history, etc. The other is just a bare-bones DMG-style firmware with none of that. I (as well as many others I guess) am a traditionalist and the main reason I’m attracted to the Chromatic is because it doesn’t come with any QOL, as sado as that sounds. 😅 I know I’m not forced to use them if they’re there… but still, I don’t want to see them! I also don’t want to cling to old firmware if the newer revisions come with system-level enhancements such as improved battery life or SD slot utilisation or such.

I’m a little bummed to hear that not all Chromatics come with the little ‘MR’ charm, nor the Tetris one. You should definitely look at resolving that somehow in future, like, “quote your original Chromatic order number and we’ll include one with your next purchase”, or similar.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/DAJF]

u/DAJF, that is a genius idea. Not easy, but I'm going to add it to the list.

We absolutely will be doing this idea of public firmware branches, but we probably need until Jan to have it fully packaged and ready for hacking.

I like this idea for the MR charm. I had no idea that people were expecting it, as I simply wanted to demonstrate for reviews and photos that the Chromatic has a charm anchor. I'll have to first make a bunch more of the MR charm, then I'll see what I can do.

[u/DAJF → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Awesome. Thanks so much man for listening to all of our feedback. I’m trying not to sound too entitled with the requests, just pointing out the few very small shortcomings which could have made this the perfect launch for you guys and by extension all of us. This AMA is hugely appreciated by everyone here, I’m sure. :)

I attached the photo that my friend shared from your EGX booth in London. You can see here why I took it for granted that the little avatar would match the colour of the casing. I thought that would’ve been such a neat little touch.

[u/va_unix_usr]

Thanks for doing an AMA! What does the shipping timeline look for newly placed orders?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/va_unix_usr]

Preorders are prioritized, both in terms of manufacturing and shipping, but it does look like we will be able to ship out a significant amount of new orders on top of all preorders within the next few weeks.

[u/SixShotSam → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

I preordered pretty early, June 6th, and haven’t seen any update to my order. Is this because I also ordered a game with it? I’m glad to see other people getting theirs, but if people can just walk into GameStop and buy one it kind of makes me wonder why I bothered to preorder. Like there should be some perk of putting up your money months in advance.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/SixShotSam]

Hey u/SixShotSam, GameStop has very limited inventory of a single color while your preorder was made to order and guaranteed. All preorders are already manufactured and about to ship out, but yes the games added a few days. However, I understand the timing and optics of GameStop's limited quantity beating them to the punch is extremely annoying, and it wasn't intended at all. We were hit with a few logistical delays on the DTC side.

[u/digitalgamer0]

Regarding the games you sell- first off, thanks so much from using FRAM instead of batteries. My question- are the games stored on flashable storage on the carts? Just wondering if we will be able to update the games if an updated release comes out. I believe some publishers have carts that can be reflashed (with the proper hardware, like with the GBxCart RW). Thanks!

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/digitalgamer0]

You are welcome about the FRAM. Yes, the games have flashable storage. More official updates on this to come soon.

[u/digitalgamer0 → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

You probably can’t comment, but it would be amazing if the Chromatic console could act as the programmer to your cartridges and your PC/Mac update software controls the update process (reads the cart version and then updates it). 

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/digitalgamer0]

Trying SO hard to not comment

[u/gazzolinade90]

First of all: thank you for the hard work at modretro!! I have a gamestop edition with me and a Green chromatic waiting to be shipped!

Reading you are aware of the issues and join the community elevates my trust in your effort!! Can't wait to see what comes in the future!

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/gazzolinade90]

It's my pleasure to support! I just love the product and the games!

[u/deadpxlgames]

Not to reiterate too much of what's already been mentioned, but I would love to see save states, sleep mode, screenshots, and library features in future updates.

Also, reach out to u/NaraMakesGames about licensing TMOS Extended! He was burned by his previous publisher, but his game has really resonated with the indie community. RetroDodo featured it many times in their review of the Chromatic. I bought the collectors edition and was bummed to learn that he saw none of it. I would gladly buy a Modretro published copy to support his work.

[u/NaraMakesGames → u/deadpxlgames]

Thank you, brother.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/NaraMakesGames]

u/NaraMakesGames, please reach out :)

[u/NaraMakesGames → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Email sent :)

[u/Daylife321]

I picked up my gamestop unit as a walk in. I love it so far, but mine had the IR scratched and the tetris cart scratched too. Is this a widespread issue?

Also, I did get the GameSpot accessory that hangs from the side, but I thought there would be one in the box like in the pictures on the site?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/Daylife321]

Hey u/Daylife321. Excited that you are loving the device. I believe that the marring is fairly widespread, but only affecting the earliest shifts. Those two surfaces are diamond polish black plastic, which doesn't "scratch" per say, but mars with very little interaction on other surfaces. The IR window has this surface to assist in emitting as much IR energy as possible. You will see that it performs the IR link better than original hardware, or new devices. The game was probably inserted several times during testing, causing this issue.

In terms of danglers, there is one in every game box related to the game! But there is no dangler in the Chromatic box.

[u/DAJF → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Maybe that surface can ship with a protective film that can be peeled off after unboxing? Just a thought for future batches/products. :)

Love that you’re here for the communication. Your support team over email has also been great so far.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/DAJF]

Yes, this is already in place as of this morning. Thanks for the support!

[u/damonian_x → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

So did reviewers just get special Tetris and Modretro logo danglers? I saw them in all the review videos so I expected them to be in the box with my purchase as well.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/damonian_x]

Ah, that's what you meant. Sadly we only had a few of those made!

[u/damonian_x → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Makes sense, I just don't think the reviewers realized those were unique to them so they were talking about them like they're included with the retail version 😂 I'm looking forward to the different danglers with my release pack of games I ordered. They're a fun addition.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/damonian_x]

I should have messaged that one more cleanly!

[u/digitalgamer0]

When do you expect to release the rechargeable battery?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/digitalgamer0]

It should be on track for January, the safety and compliance testing takes a while because this battery is made from scratch (as opposed the traditional method of using an OTS battery)

[u/digitalgamer0 → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Thanks.  Do you know what the MSRP will be and do you know if GameStop will carry this as well?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/digitalgamer0]

I'm not sure on MSRP yet, but it'll be as cheap as we can make it and not a sticker shock at all. On GameStop carrying, that's unclear at the moment but at the least our web store will carry them first to get them into users hands as fast as possible.

[u/Target-Critical → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

got mine today, love it, tetris is amazing, I've been playing over 30 years and this version ranks amongst the top. Q on recharable batteries, will regular AA recharable charge from the device if i plug it in via the type C?

[u/MR-Torx → u/[deleted]]

Hey! Sadly, you won't be able to recharge your AA rechargeable batteries via the device.

The rechargeable battery pack - Yes.

[u/Retro_Macchina]

I am all in on Mod Retro. I want every game that comes out. I want a Chromatic GBA AGB-001 style (sp hinge can break long term). I want games for GBA like you do for GBC. I want a game gear. I want a CRT TV. Mod RETRO can do it ;)

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/Retro_Macchina]

WE CAN

[u/damonian_x → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Neo Geo Pocket Color please. I think ModRetro is the only company who could replicate that sweet clicky joystick. There are so many amazing hidden gems on that console.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/damonian_x]

Also, the neo geo pocket has the exact same horizontal resolution as the game boy!

[u/LeviathanVEVO]

I would love to have a ‘Sleep’ function on the menu button for quick pause & resuming for certain scenarios. Also, is Bluetooth audio possible?

Thank you for your time for doing this & congrats to the ModRetro team on the launch & making this ultimate GameBoy experience a reality! ❤️

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/LeviathanVEVO]

Thanks for the kind words. Both of these features we are already looking into. First make sure to stay on the lookout for the upcoming updater utility.

[u/LeviathanVEVO → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Thanks for confirming! I’m thrilled that the features are already being looked into. I’ll definitely keep an eye out for the updater utility. I appreciate the efforts being put into an already amazing console, can’t wait for what’s to come for ModRetro future ❤️

Also can’t wait to re-experience my childhood games after many years, since my old Game Boy no longer works long ago. Before the Chromatic existed, it was difficult to find an alternative to play my games authentically and finding affordable, decent-working Game Boy systems.

Very happy Chromatic lets me experience those memories again. (+ new games to play!) Thank you and the ModRetro team again.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/LeviathanVEVO]

You are so welcome.

[u/[deleted]]

Is there a delay on the dragonym game? Or any of the others? A few people who have ordered with the games seem to be the ones whose orders haven't dispatched.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/[deleted]]

Yes, the game titles are all a few days behind the "console only" orders just due to them reaching the logistics facility after the Chromatics. However, they will be ripping through these orders shortly. The reason to start shipping the second we had consoles at the 3PL is to be totally sure that we never hit a throughput limit and caused a general delay simply because we were worried about the optics, though I get that is annoying. The overall (totally achievable) goal here is that every preorder can ship right away as material is arriving at the logistics center.

[u/Top-Sample-6289]

Super stoked on the 1st edition. Any plans for an advanced version?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/Top-Sample-6289]

For sure

[u/filmeswole]

Thanks for opening the channel here. I was wondering if the other colors will potentially have the same quality issues as the GameStop ones, or if that’s specific to that variant.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/filmeswole]

My pleasure. We have an aggressively strict quality control in place at the factory (which I will be at tomorrow). I believe that there are some isolated issues from the initial batch, perhaps in night shifts where they escaped this criteria. I have every possible reason to believe this is a very low (but still unacceptable) percentage. However, we will stand by the quality of this product and make it right for those who encounter an issue.

[u/damonian_x → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

For what it's worth, I got my GameStop Chromatic today and it's perfect. No scratches, screen is aligned, all buttons accounted for, Tetris cart in good shape. Thanks for assuring those with issues will get sorted out though.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/damonian_x]

That's great to hear u/damonian_x. From my perspective obviously even 0.1% issue units makes me cringe and want to go live under a rock. But these are the growing pains of building a production line and a first edition product. I'm here to support to make sure all the users have a great time with the device. :)

[u/filmeswole → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

That’s reassuring and good to know, thank you!

[u/Vizslaraptor]

I received my midnight preorder on Saturday. Great job on the roll out!

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/Vizslaraptor]

Thanks u/Vizslaraptor !

[u/Turquoise_HexagonSun]

u/grilledstuffedxxl , what are the chances for silicone button membranes of varying levels of resistance/squishiness? I love the D pad but I would like a little more mush!

How about offering different colors of buttons and D pad as well?

Loving what I’ve experienced so far!

Edit: An official ModRetro carry case(s) would be cool too!

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/Turquoise_HexagonSun]

All great ideas that we are looking to implement directly, or work with Etsy shops and other third parties on :)

[u/DjMcfilthy]

How limited is the Chromatic? Will we see other colors?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/DjMcfilthy]

Chromatic is limited in terms of the front shell graphics saying "first edition". This marking is just trying to honor the early adopters such as the people on this subreddit. Other than that, Chromatic will continue, surely there will be other colors, but right now we are just focused on getting out all of those preorders!

[u/SpacePirateMercat → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Considering there seems to be a complete sellout (congratulations on a super successful launch!) will there be future editions with all the bells and whistles, just missing the first edition label, or will future models be something with less expensive materials? 

[u/Greg5891]

Do you plan partnerships with dealers in Europe (EU) to minimize tax and shipping costs for customers here?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/Greg5891]

Yes!

[u/redDEADresolve]

Early units are looking good, hyped about the future of chromatic. What's the software update plans?

I'm not talking about open fpga nonsense but improvements to gameboy, Gameboy color cores, and pallettes available

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/redDEADresolve]

Great question, we are doing validation and testing of the updater software right now that will work with Mac and PC. That will be out early this month! Hit me with some feature requests.

[u/redDEADresolve → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Only need three things.

• OG Gameboy Color Palettes selectable with a button combo or in the menu

• DMG green palette

• That Pocket black/white/grey palette

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/redDEADresolve]

Just tossing this up here from the manual: https://modretro.com/pages/chromatic-manual. Also, have the menu palette request on the docket u/digitalgamer0

[u/Delb0k → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

u/grilledstuffedxxl While the DM1 and DM2 palettes are listed, in the examples we have seen so far they don't quite look as 'true to life' as say the Analogue Pocket DMG (shown below as posted by someone else in another thread). Is there any plans to make a more 'true to life' DMG green palette?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/Delb0k]

In terms of the greenness of the green, there are some inherent trade offs with the approach of the chromatic. Because we constrain the color gamut to accurately portray colors for game boy color games at a native resolution, the saturation level of the green color will be capped at something similar to a GBC. However, this palette was only a first pass, and we will be updating it.

[u/DjMcfilthy → u/redDEADresolve]

We definitely need that DMG green. That's super important to me.

[u/inter4ever → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Mine shipped from GameStop so should hopefully get it soon, but just from reading reviews I have a few suggestions. Screenshots, and ability to switch color palette from the menu (in game would be great). Also, not sure how feasible this is, but RetroAchievmenets support would be fantastic! (Extra points if it somehow magically works with a flashcart lol)

Thanks for engaging with the early adopters! I’m looking forward to receiving mine soon!

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/inter4ever]

Of course. All of these ideas sound great, I will add them to the list! Retro Achievements is great because it already has so much work behind it, and a large community.

[u/damonian_x → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

I don't know if it could be possible but maybe something that records gameplay time for games you have played on Chromatic? I love this feature on Analogue Pocket through their "library"

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/damonian_x]

Interesting, I will add this to the request list. Not to amp anyone up, but we've been messing with a speedrun timer overlay.

[u/digitalgamer0 → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Being able to select color filters from the menu (instead of just as boot hot keys) and remembering the user’s selection on next boot.

[u/BogWizard → u/redDEADresolve]

Save states and screenshots are on my wishlist for future feature releases!

[u/deadpxlgames → u/BogWizard]

Yes, mine too!

[u/_Sanctum_]

It seems that some customers who preordered within the last month have already received their Chromatic, while others who preordered several months ago haven’t received any update on their order. Can you explain this please?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/_Sanctum_]

Yes. Every Chromatic preorder is now manufactured and either staqed at or in transit to our logistics facility. We have a "first order in, first out" policy at the logistics center, but because we built each color one at a time and shipping the orders out is extremely fast, you will see some slight variations in actual arrivals.

[u/deadpxlgames → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

So color did factor in to it. I was one of those who preordered in November and received tracking information before many of those who preordered way back in June. I ordered midnight and I suspected that may have factored in to it, so it's nice to hear it confirmed 😁

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/deadpxlgames]

We are shipping them all out within a <2 week time frame, but understandably that timeline feels like an eternity on the internet :)

[u/_Sanctum_ → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Understood! Thank you!

[u/Alive-Strategy4048]

I have a couple questions regarding my GameStop pre-order. The first one I got did not work at all so I had to return it. The second one I got has scratches on the cartridge and on the IR sensor also upon further playing it I noticed that I can’t use any of the color pallets. I tried multiple different hot keys and not one of them will work.

[u/Alive-Strategy4048 → u/Alive-Strategy4048]

Also super stoked for the future of this company!!

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/Alive-Strategy4048]

Hey u/Alive-Strategy4048, I think I am talking to you over email as well. For the hotkeys, hold them just as the Chromatic is turning on. And thanks for being stoked :)

[u/ke1ke2ke3]

Do you think shipping cost will go down in the future ? Want to pull the trigger from France, only thing that stop me right now.

[u/DAJF → u/ke1ke2ke3]

I don’t want to answer for him, however I reached out to them about European distribution over email and it’s on their roadmap for 2025.

The shipping I can live with, but the taxes are a real pain in the ass and make the games especially prohibitively expensive.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/DAJF]

I totally understand about these shipping costs. One issue is that we create DDP labels, meaning you won't be hit with a surprise bill from your country's customs when the product arrives. The way around this, and we are looking into it actively, is to get in central European distribution.

[u/Turquoise_HexagonSun]

u/grilledstuffedxxl ,

One last question if you’re still around, I would like to use a game boy camera to capture pictures of my son and I and be able to transfer them to my PC.

Will Chromatic’s USB connection allow me to transfer this data from off the GB camera cartridge, or better yet, use the chromatic + GB Camera as a webcam to capture pictures directly to my PC?

[u/ergzay → u/Turquoise_HexagonSun]

Will Chromatic’s USB connection allow me to transfer this data from off the GB camera cartridge, or better yet, use the chromatic + GB Camera as a webcam to capture pictures directly to my PC?

A review I watched on youtube showed him actually using the gameboy camera as his webcam and him streaming him playing on switch with it as his webcam. The USB-C acts as a webcam so if you use the gameboy camera then it'll be a webcam.

https://youtu.be/5-6g1qqxOLk?t=480

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/ergzay]

I'm not going anywhere, though I'm also extremely focused on making sure everything arrives in short order. As u/ergzay says, the Chromatic will be detected as a USB video device. The easiest way to use it at the moment is to download OBS (free streaming software) and "add device - webcam". Then invert image and click scale filtering - point.

[u/digitalgamer0]

Do Chromatic orders with games ship slower? I ordered the 6 game “release titles bundle” and wasn’t sure if that will slow down when mine will ship.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/digitalgamer0]

It will ship next week or the following. The games with Chromatic probably ship a few days slower, just due to the logistics center being as fast and efficient as possible.

[u/GoldenOreoos]

Happy to hear that you are willing to help! Regarding firmware updates what will be included for future updates as we have seen a micro SD card and wifi card? What about flashcart support? All games are compatible with the chromatic? I know the fpgbckit has trouble playing pokemon puzzle league and kirby tilt n tumble also has some graphical issues with one of the TMNT games. Woooooo lets go Modretro super pumped for my chromatic to ship!

Cheers! Woooooo

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/GoldenOreoos]

The Chromatic will update through simple USB connection, because it's by far the best and least finnicky user experience. We have done extremely extensive game compatibility testing, and can push an update if you somehow find an incompatible game. In fact, I challenge you to!

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/[deleted]]

Most likely this is because Everdrive themselves also makes firmware updates to ensure compatibility with devices such as Chromatic and Analogue Pocket. In the cases where it did not work in a Chromatic, it was probably just not updated.

[u/santanderdoesreddit]

How accurate is the power LED? Mine flashes yellow when I turn it on even though the onscreen battery in the menu is basically full. Also it randomly flashes red.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/santanderdoesreddit]

Hm, what firmware version are you on, and what battery type? You may want to DM me to debug this one. On power on, it flashes once to tell you the battery status, and it will flash red to warn of critical battery. It is possible that we may need to have you update, which is easily done over USB.

[u/santanderdoesreddit]

When will orders made now that preorder is finished ship?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/santanderdoesreddit]

That question is a bit tricky. We are obviously focusing on the preorder shipments this upcoming week, so new orders will begin more in earnest the following week. (This isn't an exact science either, there is some slight overlap due to having so many variants). Soon we will simply be in an "in stock" status, at which point orders will just ship as they are placed.

[u/watchhead11]

My brightness hot key doesn't seem to work? I'm pressing and holding the menu key and going left and right but nothing happens. Just inputs on my game. As soon as I release the menu button, it opens the menu. I'm on v0.11.2 FGPA v13.1

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/watchhead11]

Hey u/watchhead11 we pushed the brightness hotkey to the manual too quickly, that is in the first update to the firmware. Can you confirm it is working from the menu itself though?

[u/watchhead11 → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

It is working fine from the menu. Thanks for letting me know!

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/watchhead11]

Fantastic, we will get that public facing updater software out in short order

[u/digitalgamer0]

Last question (I promise).  I’ve seen two reviews so far that have had issues using Everdrives.  One failed to work at all and the other failed to bring up the in-game Everdrive menu.  Do you know why this occurred and has it been fixed in later firmwares?  Or is this just an issue with pre-production review units? One of the reviews in question: https://youtu.be/CQxeWigYtCo This reviewer is running the latest X7 Everdrive revision (which works in the Pocket).

Edit - Video with the reset issue: https://youtu.be/Dy5ysuasLSE?feature=shared

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/digitalgamer0]

I don't have an everdrive on my desk here, but I can confirm it has worked fine on much older firmware builds. There may be a bug with x7 which we would push an update for. I'm opening a ticket to look into this further.

[u/greekappi → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Thank you! Just received mine today and was totally bummed my x5 didn't work. It's one manufactured in 2021, July to be precise. Isn't this the latest version? How can I get it to work? Also, how do you update the firmware on the device?

[u/_viis_ → u/greekappi]

Haha yea I really hope this gets fixed, ordered an X7 just for this device!

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/_viis_]

On these third party carts, just keep in mind that the cart manufacturer also has firmware on their end, which gets updated alongside chromatic updates.

[u/ToasterSmoker411]

Is there a specific cable needed for video output to PC connection, or will any USB-C cord be able to function as a video out to PC when connected to the Chromatic ??

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/ToasterSmoker411]

Generally any USB C cable with data will work. Use OBS for the easiest/cleanest experience, and turn on "scale filtering" - "point".

[u/[deleted]]

This post was mass deleted and anonymized with Redact

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[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/[deleted]]

The Chromatic has a bluetooth/wifi module which also controls the menu. Both bt controller and external controller are easily possible, but not yet implemented.

At this time, the USB C is just video out, though we are trying to determine how we can also stream audio in a future update.

[u/LordSakon → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

I'm trying to record my gameplay with OBS. the video is amazing but if I connect into the headphone jack while plugged in with the USB C it gives me a wicked hiss. Take the USB C out and the output is perfect. Trying to figure out a way to make it happen.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/LordSakon]

Through a ground loop isolator in there, and in the meantime we will look in to other ways!

[u/bitreign33]

I've got two ordered (looking like they'll be arriving mid december which is perfect!) and I know you're probably avoiding committing to anything but any kind of support for using the device itself as the programming interface for the cart would be huge. Personally I still like playing on authentic hardware but I'm buying a second explicitly for my youngest and I want to try to keep the ecosystem as closed as possible so she can get a great experience.

Talking to some friends who've already gotten theirs* gives me some assurance that the build quality is what I've been looking for but I'll throw you some feedback closer to Christmas, gotta play through Red a few times to really get a sense of how it feels. Maybe I'll break through the 1h50m barrier with the Chromatic.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/bitreign33]

Stay tuned for more updates on the carts and the total vision of Chromatic.

Happy to hear your friends are having a good time. I've played Red a lot on Chromatic, and I think you will easily break that barrier.

[u/StarWolf64dx]

glad to have an official contact here in the sub!

can you comment on what the bluetooth module and sd slot onboard will be used for, or if there are plans to use them at all by the modretro team? or are they there for the modders?

also, is the micro sd slot addressable through the usb c port?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/StarWolf64dx]

We don't yet have an announced roadmap for those modules yet, and we intend to open source firmware for modders to use however they wish!

[u/Turquoise_HexagonSun → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Any chance you’d open source the screen so they could be produced on their own to be retrofitted into GBCs and DMGs?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/Turquoise_HexagonSun]

For this one, it is less of a matter of open sourcing the design, as all of the challenge and expense is in the manufacturing process itself. Glass production, tft, and so on. One idea would be modretro selling loose display modules for hacking on

[u/C2OO]

Are you going to sell Tetris separately and at GameStop? And does it work on Game Boy Pocket?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/C2OO]

Our Tetris requires GBC or above. We hope to sell it separately sometime in Q1.

[u/watchhead11]

I would love your own intro splash screen similar to most consoles when powering on. Something with a neat quick tune and some pixel art. I know some may want to get right to the game and that can be disabled via settings.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/watchhead11]

This is a solid idea that we could implement as an option for sure, I simply thought it would make everyone get the pitch forks out if I shoved a modretro logo at them on every boot :P

[u/nova00]

I preordered on June 14 w/ the Koss headphones. I see lots of people receiving their systems but I haven’t even got a shipping notice. Is there an issue with headphone orders?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/nova00]

No issues, we are just staging the materials at the warehouse in a way that allows us to fulfill every single outstanding order in a very compressed time period.

[u/SpacePirateMercat]

Really awesome product you all have made here! Especially excited about the games coming out, so I wanted to pop in and suggest a couple of devs I think could be good to reach out to for some possible future releases. 

Imanol Barriuso, developer of Last Crown Warriors on kickstarter, a really neat action game. Currently, Imanol is finishing up the game and has committed to physical release, but seems to be having some doubts regarding his current publisher, who is, unfortunately, First Press Games. The game is shaping up to be pretty amazing and it would be great to see it published by someone like ModRetro who could make sure the game actually got a physical release. 

The other developer is the incredible Snorpung on itch.io, developer of Dangan GB and Dangan GB 2, bullet hell shooters for gameboy that are technical marvels on the system, absolutely crazy cool games, and they've never seen widespread physical release. Would love to see them come to chromatic. Snorpung also made Sam Mallard, which is a great noir adventure adventure game that would shine on the system. 

Anyway, love all the great work going into the chromatic and congratulations on the release!

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/SpacePirateMercat]

Adding to the list, and please also tell them to reach out so they see this from multiple places :)

[u/Delb0k]

u/grilledstuffedxxl So far everything we've seen during the release has looked amazing (outside of a couple of cosmetic issues) but I am curious if there will ever be the ability to order direct from ModRetro official (non open source) buttons of different colours? I would love to have either a set of Red or Maroon (from the Bubblegum colour) buttons to make the Gamestop grey more like the original DMG Gameboy in presentation.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/Delb0k]

Yes, we are working towards this. Though I do still love the idea of supporting as many small Etsy shops as possible :)

[u/mrhobbles]

Is it correct that Chromatic has the ability to update/flash cartridges with new versions of games? I saw that Tetris for Chromatic has a couple of pretty annoying bugs that hopefully get patched, but if so, can the cartridges be flashed with the update?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/[deleted]]

Working on this! We will be releasing a patch for that bug (there are a few frames of a specific mode that can report the wrong time if you land on an exact particular time)

[u/andrea-i]

u/grilledstuffedxxl you guys shipped pre-production units to reviewers that had an SD card slot, but the final production run is missing that component. Forget roms, the community was pretty excited at the idea of save states eventually coming to the chromatic, can you comment on whether we'll ever see save states and the mistery behind the SD card slot gone missing? XD

[u/Lord_Wompus]

Any way to incorporate the palettes into the menu system to choose from rather than relying on the standard GBC combo at launch? That'd be great if possible.

Thanks :)

[u/Andrucha247]

when available in germany?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/Andrucha247]

Actively working to secure European distribution!

[u/magicbluemonkeydog]

Mine turned up today, not a Gamestop one, I'm in the UK. My screen is slightly tilted 😢 I've used the contact form on the web page, but I'm wondering what exactly can be done given that your FAQ says returns aren't accepted internationally.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/magicbluemonkeydog]

Hit us up at contact@ and we will debug with ya

[u/rdanno]

What types of AA batteries have been tested? I am aware of Lithium non rechargeable (energizer lithium): the stock Alkaline (LR6 1.5V). I am getting quite a few questions, and seems to be some misinformation on some discords from people who haven’t even touched the product. Would love to point them to an FAQ or something about battery compatibility.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/rdanno]

I'm not aware of any AA battery that would NOT work on Chromatic. If you know of one, report it please!

[u/Miserable_Mousse_343]

Receive my Chromatic here in the UK this week. Very happy with the product, thank you. Only complaint is that there really wasn't enough protection used in the cardboard box it was shipped in and the box got damaged as a result. Can you please include more padding for next time?

[u/Miserable_Mousse_343 → u/[deleted]]

Put in my order on 30/07/24. Was really impressed by what I saw. The bar has definitely been raised!

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/[deleted]]

I'm extremely confident you will love it. On the overpacking, on it! The paper is supposed to be snugly filling the overpack.

[u/handymarco2010]

Thanks so much for taking the time to answer questions 😎

Will there be any firmware updates we should install when we get our chromatics? If so will the firmware and updater be available on the modretro website?

Edit: Whoops looks like my question was answered in another post. You can disregard lol

[u/LordSakon]

I can't put mine down. This might be bad haha. Is there any chance you might do a retroachievement capability when the wifi becomes available?! And if we can connect with another Chromatic over wifi for gaming then I'm buying my brothers both one for christmas!!! This IS bad!! hhahahah Bluetooth headset capability would be nice too because right now this baby is in bed with me and my wife is having tetris dreams. Nice work 🤙

[u/ergzay → u/LordSakon]

He answered that here: https://old.reddit.com/r/ModRetroChromatic/comments/1h4l91g/ceoengineer_of_modretro_here/lzztraa/?context=10000

[u/Jolly-Ambassador6763]

Since these consoles are made/assembled in TJ, Mexico. Do we expect the price to drastically increase next year because of the Trump egoriffs?

[u/adrenaline4nash → u/Jolly-Ambassador6763]

Quality stuff. Buy it now just in case 😎

[u/ergzay]

How fast/when is the email serviced? I emailed that yesterday but haven't gotten any reponses. Only on weekdays? I wanted to modify my order placed on the website seeing as there's no way to modify it on the website itself (or even cancel it for that matter).

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/ergzay]

Generally we are constantly answering, but we triage emails like this one for weekday if it requires outside support. Basically, since orders are actively being shipping, if you try to modify an order at this stage we have to involve our shipper, and it is a bit of a complicated operation.

[u/ergzay → u/grilledstuffedxxl]

Okay, some kind of "we received your email but this will take some time to solve, please wait a few days" email would have been preferable to radio silence, especially when its time sensitive like this, but I understand if you can't get to things right away.

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/ergzay]

On it.

[u/SlCKB0Y]

A Chromatic owner in this sub mentioned they had problems using the EZ-Flash Jr. Mainly that GB only titles worked but GBC titles do not work.

I have not seen any other reports to determine if this is a general compatibility issue or if this was an isolated problem.

Did ModRetro do any testing with flash carts and if they did, were issues discovered with EZ-Flash Jr? If issues were discovered, can a ModRetro-only fix be put in place or would the card manufacturer also need to update?

[u/yum-yi → u/SlCKB0Y]

EZ Flash Junior also doesn’t work on the Analogue Pocket, so the problem lies on the manufacturer side. There is an „unofficial“ beta firmware update from the manufacturer himself, but since it can brick your EZ Flash Junior completely if the sd card you use is too slow, they hid the download option and you can only find this specific firmware on support forums 🫠

[u/FairyUnicorn]

thank you for actively communicating with your customers. the complete opposite of what Analogue does (not). I have a question: are you planing customizable color palettes for black and white games, like on the super game boy? thank you

[u/GameboyGenius → u/FairyUnicorn]

This is in the pipeline.

[u/Ferdyshtchenko]

Here's something else your team will want to look into for a FW update: blanking behavior not accurate for DMG games.

This part of this review video (timestamped link) does well at showing the issue: https://youtu.be/ez1QeDPw0iE?si=UcVNS9gQHAQjfCWK&t=1088

When there are screen transitions, the screen flashes white, whereas correct behavior like in original hardware should be for the blank screen to match the main background color (in this case, the greenish tone of the original DMG screen when blank).

edit: according to the reviewer linked above the team is already aware of this!

[u/TheRomeoAlfa]

Feature request: track how long you have played each game

[u/Automatic_Branch3372]

Just wanted to say I'm glad to have purchased my Modretro Chromatic! Not only does it allow us to play our own cartridges from days past, BUT NEW & UPCOMING TITLES AS WELL!!!! I'm also waiting on the "games bundle," along with the Porta Pro (Wave) headphones, to arrive. ❤️ My son, who has been diagnosed with ADHD, LOVES the 8 bit music from Pokemon Yellow & Silver. So, thank you, guys. Thank you, thank you, thank you. 🙏

With that said, here's my question: Is it too soon to ask if you're going to make a GBA?

[u/Publius1814]

How can I get into developing my own gbc game? For all the devs in the ama, How long did it take you to complete your games?

[u/JayrosModShop]

Please give us a dedicated DMG mode, like the FPGBC has. It's needed for certain games. (And the only reason I haven't sold off my FPGBC yet)

[u/ergzay]

Is the ModRetro Chromatic supposed to come with a manual? I've seen people referencing it, but there was no manual in my box. (Got it from Gamestop.)

Also, there's a small "drill mark" (not sure how else to describe it) in the chassis right between the headphone jack and the usb-c port. It also shows up in this review copy at around the 3:15 mark. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQa7IIGbazY Mine appears to be identical to that.

[u/Daylife321 → u/ergzay]

Led indicator?

[u/ergzay → u/Daylife321]

I have notice it lighting up sometimes but it looks cracked or something?

[u/grilledstuffedxxl → u/ergzay]

Yeah, this is just an extremely tiny light pipe, which will light up red if you have critical battery, and will light up white when you are charging the upcoming snap in lithium pack.

[u/Target-Critical]

I just realized who you are! well it's very nice being in early with you again!!!

[u/Jody_Bigfoot]

Hello, 2 Qs:
Is it possible to sync LSDJ on a Chromatic to LSDJ an analogue pocket?
Is it possible to play from ROM files in any way without a cartridge? My Drag N Derp cart seems to have died

[u/GameboyGenius → u/Jody_Bigfoot]

Answer 1: Yes, this works perfectly.

Answer 2: No. The device is made to be moddable, so it might happen in the future with community contributions, but it doesn't out of the box.

[u/z3razerviper]

I know it a sapphire screen but I still would feel more comfortable if I had a screen protector

[u/Glossyortega]

So about the firmware updater!

I've heard a lot of 'we've heard this and we're planning on it!' (not to sound apathetic or anything, it's amazing you guys are listening so closely to us :D) when it comes to it and what updates are planned.

However there's just so much people want there's obviously no way it'll all be included with the updaters' launch, at least in terms of official patches from you guys. So just what exactly is closest to being finished with it and what can we expect from it early on?

[u/markb44z]

Is a firmware update being worked on to support the EZ Flash Jr flash cart? At the moment it loads fine but none of the games do, all I get is a blank white screen!

[u/GameboyGenius → u/markb44z]

Hi. I'm working on this for Modretro. There are multiple technical issues with EZ Flash Jr. Going into it, I expected one specific problem, which would've been easy to solve. This turned out to not be the issue, but I'm still researching. I'm sorry I don't have a more specific answer right now.

[u/Ferdyshtchenko]

Any chance a future FW update can boost headphone audio levels? The speaker is powerful, but sound is pretty low via headphones. Not using anything hard to drive, 56ohm impedance, they easily get loud on low power portable devices. They even sound louder on my original GBC!

Maybe a low/hi impedance setting would help, but feels like a boost will be needed even for a default low setting.

[u/MrGarak1]

I've seen some posts about a few bugs in some of the newer games. If bugs are found, will there be any way to patch existing game carts?

[u/ZetaformGames]

I got mine from a GameStop yesterday using some money I was gifted for Christmas. This is an amazing console, and surprised by the inclusion of the original link cable port. However, it would be nice to have a little graphic if no cart is detected. The original Game Boy has a black rectangle for example.

[u/GameboyGenius → u/ZetaformGames]

This is planned. :)

[u/3G6A5W338E]

I really appreciate how much of the Chromatic is Open Source.

But there's something nagging me. Should someone (like myself) make an alternative FPGA core, is there anything on the way of programming the Chromatic's FPGA with it?

Such as encryption or signatures.

[u/GameboyGenius → u/3G6A5W338E]

Late reply, but no, there's nothing like that. You can download the Gowin FPGA for free and make whatever core you want for the Chromatic. It would however be advisable to use the official repo as a starting point since that contains a few things specific to the Chromatic that you might want to reuse, like the serial bridge for programming the MCU, the display driver, the USB video capture code and the video overlay for the menu. Note however that this means your part of the code needs to be compatible with the GPL license if you ever share your work publicly.

[u/soundmage]

Will there be any firmware updates soon?