Overview
The Neo Geo Pocket Color was SNK’s 1999 handheld, the colour successor to the original Neo Geo Pocket. Famous for its micro-switched clicky joystick—considered the best portable D-pad ever—and excellent fighting games, it was critically acclaimed but SNK’s bankruptcy cut its life short.
Fast Facts
- Released: 1999
- CPU: Toshiba TLCS-900H @ 6.144 MHz
- Screen: 160×152, 146 colours
- Battery life: 40 hours (2 AA)
- End: 2001 (SNK bankruptcy)
Specifications
| Component | Detail |
|---|
| Display | Colour LCD (no backlight) |
| Resolution | 160×152 |
| Colours | 146 on-screen |
| Battery | 40 hours |
| Controls | Micro-switched joystick |
The Famous Joystick
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|
| Micro-switches | Precise, clicky feedback |
| 8 directions | Full diagonal support |
| Fighting games | Perfect for special moves |
| Still praised | Considered best portable control ever |
Notable Games
| Game | Notes |
|---|
| SNK vs Capcom | Crossover fighting |
| King of Fighters R-2 | Premium fighter |
| Sonic Pocket Adventure | Excellent Sonic |
| Metal Slug | Series portable debut |
Why It Failed
| Factor | Impact |
|---|
| Late to market | Game Boy dominance |
| SNK finances | Company went bankrupt |
| Game Boy Color | Nintendo’s own colour upgrade |
| Distribution | Limited outside Japan |
Legacy
The NGPC proved handheld fighting games could work with the right controls. Its joystick design remains legendary among portable gaming enthusiasts, and its library—though small—contains genuine classics.
See Also