Relive Old Electronic Handheld Games Right in Your Browser

Long before the Nintendo DS and Sony PSP – heck, long before the original Nintendo Gameboy, there were electronic handheld games. Since technology at the time of their popularity didn’t allow for screens with completely customizable graphics, these handhelds featured a static background and an overlay with graphics and text reminiscent of a calculator. Primitive, for sure, not only graphics-wise, but control-wise. You never expected a fluid experience with these things.

In the 70s and 80s, electronic handhelds were the only option for mobile gaming, and they definitely suited their purpose well. Because of their technical nature, finding an emulator to relive the classics is easier said than done, much like with pinball (though emulators do in fact exist for both). Fortunately, for those who would like to give these classics another go, a website called Pica-Pic and someone that goes by the name of Hipopotam has got you covered.

On this site, you’re able to peruse a fairly large collection of handheld games, and the presentation just doesn’t get any better. Not only do you get a title of the game and the game itself, you can also see the original unit in very clear detail. To play the games, you can use your WASD keys and others that will be specified once the game is loaded. Once a game is over, you’ll have the option of saving a high score which will be saved on the website. Yes, you can literally play an old Game & Watch handheld and compete to have the highest score. Who on earth ever saw that happening?

I am not sure who Hipopotam is, but they’re a hero for giving us the ability to play these old games again.