The 10 Best Handhelds of All Time

1. Atari Lynx

The Atari Lynx, unveiled in 1989, dazzled gamers with its vibrant colour graphics and ergonomic design. Featuring visually impressive titles like “California Games” and “Ninja Gaiden,” the Lynx carved its place in gaming history despite facing stiff competition from the Game Boy.

2. Neo Geo Pocket Color

Although its reign was short-lived, the Neo Geo Pocket Color, released in 1999, made a lasting impression with its remarkable graphics and stellar game lineup. Compact and featuring a stellar D-pad, it offered delightful experiences with games like “SNK vs. Capcom: Match of the Millennium” and “Metal Slug: 1st Mission.”

3. PlayStation Vita

Sony’s PlayStation Vita, released in 2011, brought console-quality gaming to handhelds with its OLED display and extensive library. Games like “Uncharted: Golden Abyss” and “Persona 4 Golden” demonstrated its power.

4. Nintendo 3DS

Bringing glasses-free 3D gaming to the masses in 2011, the Nintendo 3DS offered iconic titles like “The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D” and “Pokémon X and Y.” Despite some motion-sickness issues, it captured the hearts of Nintendo fans.

5. Sega Game Gear

The Sega Game Gear, released in 1990, dazzled gamers with its colorful display and backlit screen. While it didn’t dethrone the Game Boy, classics like “Sonic the Hedgehog” and “Shinobi” made it a formidable competitor.

6. Game Boy Advance

In 2001, the Game Boy Advance brought 32-bit gaming to handhelds, cementing Nintendo’s supremacy. With classics such as “Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire” and “The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap,” it offered hours of entertainment and introduced innovations like the foldable Advance SP.

7. Sony PlayStation Portable (PSP)

The Sony PSP, hitting the shelves in 2004, wowed gamers with its stunning graphics and immersive gameplay. Featuring titles like “God of War” and “Metal Gear Solid,” it became a must-have for gaming aficionados, with its thumb slide joystick adding to the experience.

8. Nintendo DS

The Nintendo DS redefined handheld gaming in 2004 with its dual screens and touch controls. Games like “Brain Age” and “Animal Crossing: Wild World” offered unique experiences, making them a must-have for gamers of all ages.

9. Nintendo Switch

The Nintendo Switch, introduced in 2017, blurred the lines between handheld and home console gaming. Its versatility and titles like “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” made it an instant favourite, defying traditional gaming conventions.

10. Nintendo Game Boy

A true icon, the Nintendo Game Boy, launched in 1989, set the standard for handheld gaming. It remains unbeatable with classics like “Tetris” and the “Pokémon” series, offering an instant connection to gaming history.

Handheld gaming consoles have been a source of joy for gamers worldwide, pushing the boundaries of portable gaming with each innovation. From the pioneering days of the Game Boy to the revolutionary Nintendo Switch, each device on this list has played a pivotal role in shaping the gaming industry. As we look ahead, the future of handheld gaming holds endless possibilities, promising to continue delighting players of all ages.

Conclusion

From the humble beginnings of monochrome screens to today’s innovative designs, handheld gaming has come a long way. Each of these consoles has left an indelible mark on the gaming industry, providing countless hours of joy to gamers worldwide. As we look to the future, one thing is certain: the legacy of handheld gaming will continue to inspire and entertain future generations.

FAQs

What makes a handheld console great?

A handheld console’s greatness lies in its portability, gameplay experience, and memorable titles. The best handhelds offer diverse games and innovative features that enhance the gaming experience.

Why is the Game Boy considered iconic?

The Game Boy’s iconic status stems from its revolutionary impact on portable gaming. It introduced classics like “Tetris” and “Pokémon” to the world and set the standard for handheld consoles with its durable design and extensive library.

Which handheld console had the best graphics?

The Sony PSP stands out for its stunning graphics and widescreen display, pushing the boundaries of handheld gaming visuals. Games like “God of War” and “Metal Gear Solid” showcased the PSP’s graphical capabilities.

What features differentiate the Nintendo Switch from other handhelds?

The Nintendo Switch’s unique selling point is its ability to seamlessly transition between handheld and docked modes, offering versatile gaming experiences. Its innovative design and titles like “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” have contributed to its popularity.

Are handheld consoles still relevant in the era of smartphones?

Despite the rise of smartphones, handheld consoles offer dedicated gaming experiences tailored to gamers’ needs. With exclusive titles, tactile controls, and enhanced performance, handhelds continue to thrive in the gaming market.