Nintendo Announces GBA SP
January 7, 2003

At this morning's press conference in New York,  Nintendo unveiled the Game Boy Advance SP.  To be released in North America on March 23rd at a price of $99.95, the GBA SP will come complete with the following features:

• A Front Light Screen, similar to the Afterburner, allowing for gameplay even in total darkness.

• New compact design featuring a flip-screen.

• Powered by a rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery good for about 10 hours of gameplay (and takes 3 hours to recharge).  Battery life extends to 18 hours with the light off.

• Launching in both cobalt (metallic) and platinum colors.

• Compatible with virtually all previous Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and GBA games and accessories.

"Both Game Boy Advance and Game Boy Advance SP reflect the best the video game market has ever seen in hand-held gaming," says Peter MacDougall, executive vice president, sales and marketing, Nintendo of America Inc. "For those who must have the latest in technology and edgy design, Game Boy Advance SP delivers the ultimate in portable gaming. "

Nintendo also announced plans to continue manufacturing the original GBA, which will still retail for $69.99.  Previous rumors (which we didn't print due to their absurdity) had suggested that Nintendo would announce a portable GameCube system at this morning's show.

Written By: Jared Black