Handheld game console
A handheld game console is a completely autonomous video game console in that controls, screen and audio outputs are built-into the unit. The Game Boy, released in 1989 by Nintendo, popularized the handheld console. They are usually not considered consoles, but instead considered handhelds.
A handheld game console should meet the following standards:
- It is a fully integrated unit, with a video display and audio output (speakers and/or headphone jacks.) As such, systems like the Sega Mega Jet, which do not have an integral display, do not qualify.
- The system has its own internal power (either removable batteries, or a rechargable battery pack). External power may be an option, however.
- The system is not dedicated, meaning that different titles may be loaded into it.
The following is a list of some handhelds, past, present, and future.
See also: console emulator, video game console
