If you grew up clutching a Gameboy Color with a passion for Pokémon, the Gamebaby case is set to revive that nostalgia on your iPhone. As a retro gaming enthusiast, I find this new accessory to be a transformative item (in more ways than one). By incorporating physical buttons that attach directly to your phone, the Gamebaby turns your iPhone into a nostalgic Gameboy-like gadget, ideal for enjoying classics via the Delta emulator. Let’s explore how it operates and why it’s an essential item for retro gamers.
The Gamebaby case features a two-piece construction, comprising one panel with physical buttons and another that fits over the top of your phone. The buttons mimic the classic Gameboy arrangement, including a D-pad, A/B buttons, Start/Select, and even shoulder buttons for more complex games. Its design is slim enough for portability while providing solid protection for your device.
The front section can be removed for easy transitions between gaming and everyday phone usage. It eliminates the need for Bluetooth, cables, or WiFi; instead, it employs a responsive material on the interior that iPhone screens can detect. This results in a lightweight, user-friendly design that also keeps costs down.
Functionality
The real magic occurs when you pair the Gamebaby with the Delta emulator app. By utilizing a custom Gamebaby skin in the Delta settings, you can effectively map the physical buttons to your favorite Gameboy titles. Whether you’re diving back into Pokémon Yellow or exploring Zelda: Link’s Awakening, the Gamebaby enhances these classic experiences with genuine controls. Delta has been my go-to Gameboy emulator for iOS for years, even prior to its acceptance on the App Store, and the cherry on top is that it’s entirely free.
Delta lets you load ROMs from nostalgic consoles like the Gameboy, Gameboy Color, and Gameboy Advance. With the Gamebaby case in hand, you can forget about touchscreen controls — enjoy the tangible feedback that enhances your gaming experience.
Cost & Availability
The Gamebaby case is currently available for pre-order via BitmoLab’s official website, with a launch expected in the first half of 2025. Presently, they offer a special early bird price of $24.99, with the retail price set to be $39.99. Currently, they are producing models specifically for the iPhone 15 Pro Max and the 16 Pro Max, but more model options are likely to come soon! For just $25, this case is an unbeatable deal for anyone aiming to enhance their iPhone with physical buttons for GBA emulation!
For anyone who fantasized about capturing Pokémon on a handheld device, the Gamebaby allows you to revisit that dream — now achievable on your iPhone. This isn’t just a case; it’s a nostalgic journey reimagined!
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