The Nintendo Game Boy, launched in 1989, became a defining force in handheld gaming, introducing millions worldwide to portable entertainment. Designed by Gunpei Yokoi and Nintendo’s R&D1 team, the Game Boy combined a durable, compact design with a monochromatic LCD screen and simple controls. Its modest hardware allowed it to be affordable and power-efficient, with battery life extending up to 15 hours on four AA batteries. Despite competition from more powerful devices, the Game Boy thrived due to its impressive library, led by titles like Tetris, which was bundled with the system, and Pokémon Red and Blue, which propelled the Pokémon franchise to global fame. The Game Boy sold over 118 million units (including the Game Boy Color), securing Nintendo’s dominance in the handheld market. Its legacy is seen today, as it set a precedent for mobile gaming that continues to influence Nintendo’s portable systems and the broader gaming industry.
