OpenAI launches $200 retro gaming handheld with games built using Codex
OpenAI has teamed up with ModRetro to release the Codex Edition, a $200 special edition of the ModRetro Chromatic handheld inspired by the Game Boy Color. Users can create games for the device with OpenAI's Codex AI coding agent.
The handheld first appeared at OpenAI's DevDay conference as an exclusive for attendees. It is now being sold through the company's OpenAI Supply Co. store with a new design. The console is currently sold out, with the next batch expected on November 19.
To create a game, users connect the ModRetro Chromatic plugin to Codex and describe the world, characters and gameplay mechanics. They then work with the agent in GB Studio, a game development tool for the Game Boy, to build scenes, graphics and game logic before generating a ROM file.
The game can be played in a browser emulator, streamed from a computer to the handheld to test its controls, display and sound, or written to a cartridge for standalone play. One programmable Codex cartridge is included.
OpenAI has also created three example games using Codex: the puzzle game Seedy's Sweet Garden, dungeon crawler Hollow Descent and rhythm game Codex Dance.
Console specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 2.56-inch backlit IPS screen, 160 × 144 resolution, Gorilla Glass protection |
| Power | Three included AA batteries or a ModRetro rechargeable battery |
| Audio | Built-in speaker and 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Compatibility | Game Boy, Game Boy Color and Chromatic cartridges |
| Design | Transparent plastic body, approximately 13 × 8 × 3 cm (5.1 × 3.1 × 1.2 inches), weighing 176 g (6.2 oz) |
A Codex Edition carrying case and additional Codex cartridges are sold separately through OpenAI Supply Co.