Game Boy Advance SP (SP): As an answer to the outcry of frustration from the shortcomings of the original model, in 2003 Nintendo redesigned and released the Game Boy Advance SP to a grateful public. The “SP” stood for Special Project and it sure was. Consumers scrambled to get this sucker and it remains the most successful of the advance models. Many gamers who bought the original GBA upgraded to this model while others who were holding out due to dissatisfaction with the original finally broke down and got one.
Design: With a design inspired by the Game Boy Classic, the SP collapses like a laptop protecting the screen from damage, however when opened, the SP is rectangular and much thinner than it’s precursor. This causes you to have to balance the unit between your fingers and thumbs while the angular edges of the base press into your palms. The directional pad and A-B buttons are on the bottom and situated so your hands are too close together, all of this causes soreness when playing for extended periods.
Size: When collapsed this unit is a 3 1/4" square that is 1" thick. It opens up to 6" high by 3 1/4" wide, weighing about 2.8 ounces.
Screen: It has the same 3" size and 240x160 resolution as the original GBA screen, but the biggest improvement is this model now features a backlit screen, finally allowing a sharp image which can be seen in any lighting situation even in the dark. (Note: Older SPs might have a front lit screen which is almost as effective but makes the colors and image slightly duller.)
Headphone Jack / Batteries: Abandoning the 1/8" jack, this model has a unique patented designed jack requiring special “officially licensed” headphones or an adaptor. Alas, no more interchanging with your other headsets.
The SP features a rechargeable battery that lasts 7 to 10 hours. The power light flashes red when it begins to run low.
Games: Like the original GBA this unit will play games from all previous Game Boy incarnations.
Price: Retails for $79.99. You can pick it up used for around $60.
Linking: This model has identical multilink capabilities like the original GBA, including the GameCube link.
Colors: The GBA SP was produced in the following colors:
Cobalt
Platinum
Onyx
Flame
Pearl Pink
Pearl Blue
Emerald
Graphite
Gold/Starlight Gold
Pearl Green
Lime
Dual Tone - Platinum & Onyx
Surf Blue
Pearl White
And in the Limited / Special Edition Colors: