Game Boy Printer: Difference between revisions

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Jump to navigation Jump to search
VisualWikitext
imported>Cyberlink420
No edit summary
 
imported>Cyberlink420
 
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Short description|Printing accessory for the Nintendo Game Boy series of handheld games consoles}}
{{Short description|Printing accessory for the Nintendo Game Boy series of handheld games consoles}}
{{more citations needed|date=October 2023}}
{{Infobox information appliance
[[File:Game Boy Printer.jpg|thumb|right|The Game Boy Printer]]
| name        = Game Boy Printer
| image        = Game Boy Printer.jpg
| manufacturer = [[Nintendo]]
| family      = [[Game Boy line]]
| type        = [[Video game accessory]], [[thermal printer]]
| generation  = [[Fourth generation of video game consoles|Fourth generation]]
| releasedate  = {{vgrelease|JP|February 21, 1998<ref name=specs>{{cite web | title=ポケットカメラ及びポケットプリンタの概要 | trans-title=Overview of Pocket Cameras and Pocket Printers | website=Nintendo | url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/corporate/release/1997-99/971121b.html | language=ja | access-date=October 21, 2025}}</ref>|NA|June 1, 1998<ref name=NF>{{cite magazine | last=Randazzo | first=Kris | title=Peripheral Vision: Game Boy Printer | magazine=[[Nintendo Force]] | issue=52 | date=May–June 2021 | page=57}}</ref>|PAL|June 4, 1998}}
| price        = {{yen|5800}}<ref name=specs/><br>{{USD|59.95}}<ref name=USPrice>{{cite web | title=Nintendo: Game Boy Camera | website=Nintendo | url=http://www.nintendo.com/gb/gb_camera/printer.html | access-date=October 21, 2025 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990422120713/http://www.nintendo.com/gb/gb_camera/printer.html | archive-date=April 22, 1999 | url-status=dead}}</ref>
}}
The '''Game Boy Printer''', known as the {{nihongo foot|'''Pocket Printer'''|ポケットプリンタ|Poketto Purinta|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha}} in Japan, is a [[thermal printer]] accessory released by [[Nintendo]]. It allows users to print special images from over 100 compatible [[Game Boy]] and [[Game Boy Color]] games onto thermal paper, which can then be applied as [[sticker]]s. The accessory was designed primarily for use with the [[Game Boy Camera]], which it released alongside in 1998.
 
==Overview==
[[File:Nintendo PocketPrinter.JPG|thumb|The Japanese version, known as the Pocket Printer]]
[[File:Nintendo PocketPrinter.JPG|thumb|The Japanese version, known as the Pocket Printer]]
The Game Boy Printer was originally designed by [[Hirokazu Tanaka]] for use with the [[Game Boy Camera]].<ref>{{cite web | title=Square Enix Music Online :: Hirokazu Tanaka :: Biography | website=Square Enix Marketing | date=August 11, 2007 | url=https://www.squareenixmusic.com/composers/tanaka/biography.shtml | access-date=October 21, 2025}}</ref> It connects to the Game Boy through the system's EXT port, similar to the [[Game Link Cable]]. As different Game Boy models feature differently-sized ports, the printer is packaged with a "Universal [[Game Link Cable]]" that features multiple connector types.<ref>{{cite web | title=Game Boy / Pocket / Color | website=Nintendo of Europe SE | url=https://www.nintendo.com/en-gb/Support/Game-Boy-Pocket-Color/Accessories/Game-Boy-Printer/Game-Boy-Printer-619594.html | access-date=October 21, 2025}}</ref> The device is compatible with all Game Boy models except the [[Game Boy Micro]], which uses a different port type and cannot play Game Boy and Game Boy Color games.<ref name=RG>{{Cite magazine |date=March 2017 |title=Peripheral Vision: Game Boy Printer |magazine=[[Retro Gamer]] |pages=46–47 |issue=165 |issn=1742-3155}}</ref>
The printer requires six [[AA battery|AA batteries]] for power.<ref name=RG/> It uses a proprietary 38mm wide [[thermal paper]] with adhesive backing, though printed images are only 22mm in width.<ref name=specs/> The printer is only capable of printing monochrome images; to compensate, Nintendo sold paper rolls in multiple colors.<ref name=NF/> New paper rolls were sold at a price of {{yen|500}} in Japan and {{usd|9.95}} in the United States, and could print an estimated 100 images each.<ref name=specs/><ref name=USPrice/> Once printed, the adhesive backing allowed the images to be applied as stickers.<ref name=GBComp/>
In Japan, a ''[[Pokémon]]''-themed version of the printer was released in September 1998 alongside ''[[Pokémon Yellow]]''.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=ポケットプリンタで「ずかん」や 「ボックス」をプリントしてみよう |trans-title=Print out "picture books" and "boxes" with a Pocket Printer |magazine=The 64Dream |issue=26 |publisher=Mainichi Communications |date=November 1998 |page=121 |lang=ja}}</ref>
==Games with Game Boy Printer support==
[[File:Gameboyprinter-hardware 2.jpg|thumb|Internal components of the Game Boy Printer]]
[[File:Gameboyprinter-hardware 2.jpg|thumb|Internal components of the Game Boy Printer]]
The '''Game Boy Printer''', known as the {{nihongo foot|'''Pocket Printer'''|ポケットプリンタ|Poketto Purinta|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha}} in Japan, is a [[thermal printer]] accessory released by [[Nintendo]] in 1998 which ceased production in early 2003. The Game Boy Printer is compatible with all the Game Boy systems except the [[Game Boy Micro]] and is designed to be used in conjunction with the [[Game Boy Camera]]. It also prints images from compatible late-generation Game Boy and Game Boy Color games (listed below). It runs on six [[AA battery|AA batteries]] and uses a proprietary 38mm wide [[thermal paper]] with adhesive backing, originally sold in white, red, yellow and blue colors. In Japan, a bright yellow [[Pokémon]] version of the Game Boy Printer was released, featuring a feed button in the style of a Poké Ball.
The Game Boy Printer was primarily intended to act as a companion to the [[Game Boy Camera]], allowing players to print their photographs.<ref name=GBComp>{{cite book|title=The Game Boy Companion|page=42|publisher=Future Publishing|last=Kitts|first=Martin|editor=Ball, Andrea|date=September 2000|url=https://archive.org/details/n64-presents-the-game-boy-companion_202206/page/n41}}</ref> However, multiple other games released between 1998 and 2001 featured support for the Game Boy Printer, allowing players to print their high scores or special unlockable images.<ref name=GBComp/> The first game to be designed with printer compatibility was ''[[Pokémon Yellow]]'', which allowed players to print out any Pokémon's Pokédex entry;<ref>{{cite web | first=Sebastian | last=Santabarbara | title=This Gamer Is Taking On The Challenge Of Printing All 151 Pokémon From Pokémon Yellow | website=Retro Dodo | date=July 9, 2025 | url=https://retrododo.com/this-gamer-is-taking-on-the-challenge-of-printing-all-151-pokemon-from-pokemon-yellow/ | access-date=December 8, 2025}}</ref> this feature would be carried forward to later ''[[Pokémon]]'' series entries on the system.<ref name=RG/>


==Games with Game Boy Printer support==
The following is a list of 110 games that support the Game Boy Printer, only 35 of which were released outside of Japan.
{{div col|colwidth=35em}}
 
{{collist|
* ''[[1942 (video game)|1942]]''<ref>{{cite web | last=Provo | first=Frank | title=1942 Review | website=GameSpot | date=May 17, 2006 | url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/1942-review/1900-2588660/ | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[1942 (video game)|1942]]''<ref>{{cite web | last=Provo | first=Frank | title=1942 Review | website=GameSpot | date=May 17, 2006 | url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/1942-review/1900-2588660/ | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Alice in Wonderland (2000 video game)|Alice in Wonderland]]''<ref>{{Cite magazine |magazine=[[Nintendo Power]] |publisher=[[Nintendo of America]] |title=Alice Without Chains |page=116 |date=September 2000 |issue=136}}</ref>
* ''[[Alice in Wonderland (2000 video game)|Alice in Wonderland]]''<ref>{{Cite magazine |magazine=[[Nintendo Power]] |publisher=[[Nintendo of America]] |title=Alice Without Chains |page=116 |date=September 2000 |issue=136}}</ref>
* ''[[Asteroids (video game)|Asteroids]]''<ref>{{Cite book |last=[[Syrox Developments]] |title=Asteroids |date=1999 |publisher=[[Activision]] |page=26 |type=instruction manual}}</ref>
* ''Animal Breeder 3'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc">{{cite book|last=Maeda|first=Hiroyuki|chapter=Chapter 2: Game Boy Software All Catalogue|title=ゲームボーイパーフェクトカタログ|trans-title=Game Boy Perfect Catalogue|series=Perfect Catalogue|publisher={{ill|G-Walk (publisher)|lt=G-Walk|ja|ジーウォーク}}|date=October 29, 2018|language=ja|isbn=978-4862978226}}</ref>{{rp|p=147}}
* ''Animal Breeder 4'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=182}}
* ''AquaLife'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=153}}
* ''[[Asteroids (video game)|Asteroids]]''<ref>{{Cite book |last=Syrox Developments |title=Asteroids |date=1999 |publisher=[[Activision]] |page=26 |type=instruction manual}}</ref>
* ''[[Austin Powers: Oh, Behave!]]''<ref name=APGBC>{{Cite magazine |magazine=[[Nintendo Power]] |publisher=[[Nintendo of America]] |title=If That's Your Bag... |page=90 |date=August 2000 |issue=135}}</ref>
* ''[[Austin Powers: Oh, Behave!]]''<ref name=APGBC>{{Cite magazine |magazine=[[Nintendo Power]] |publisher=[[Nintendo of America]] |title=If That's Your Bag... |page=90 |date=August 2000 |issue=135}}</ref>
* ''[[Austin Powers: Welcome to My Underground Lair!]]''<ref name=APGBC/>
* ''[[Austin Powers: Welcome to My Underground Lair!]]''<ref name=APGBC/>
* ''[[Cardcaptor Sakura|Cardcaptor Sakura: Itsumo Sakura-chan to Issho!]]'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=146}}
* ''Cardcaptor Sakura: Tomoe Shōgakkō Daiundōkai'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=175}}
* ''[[Chee-Chai Alien]]'' (Japan only)<ref>{{cite web|author1=船津稔|title=クリーチャーズ、新感覚"宇宙救済ゲーム"「ちっちゃいエイリアン」|url=http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/20010119/creat.htm|website=Game Watch|accessdate=6 May 2015|language=Japanese|date=January 19, 2001}}</ref>
* ''[[Columns (video game)#Legacy|Columns GB: Tezuka Ozamu Characters]]'' (Japan only)<ref>{{Cite book|title=Columns GB Tezuka Osamu Characters|last=Game Studio|publisher=Media Factory|page=1|date=1999|type=instruction manual}}</ref>
* ''Cross Hunter: Monster Hunter Version'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=188}}
* ''Cross Hunter: Treasure Hunter Version'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=188}}
* ''Cross Hunter: X Hunter Version'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=188}}
* ''Daa! Daa! Daa! Totsuzen ★ Card de Battle de Uranai!?'' (Japan only)<!--Pocket Printer icon appears on box-->
* ''[[Daikaijū Monogatari|Daikaijuu Monogatari: The Miracle of the Zone II]]'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=142}}
* ''Dejiko no Mahjong Party'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=179}}
* ''[[Densha de Go! 2 Kōsoku-hen|Densha de Go! 2]]'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=180}}
* ''Dino Breeder 3: Gaia Fukkatsu'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=145}}
* ''[[Disney's Dinosaur (video game)|Disney's Dinosaur]]''<ref>{{cite web | title=Disney's Dinosaur | website=IGN | date=May 25, 2000 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/05/25/disneys-dinosaur-4 | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Disney's Dinosaur (video game)|Disney's Dinosaur]]''<ref>{{cite web | title=Disney's Dinosaur | website=IGN | date=May 25, 2000 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/05/25/disneys-dinosaur-4 | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Disney's Tarzan (video game)|Disney's Tarzan]]''<ref>{{cite web | last=Schneider | first=Peer | title=Tarzan | website=IGN | date=July 14, 1999 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/1999/07/14/tarzan-2 | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Disney's Tarzan (video game)|Disney's Tarzan]]''<ref>{{cite web | last=Schneider | first=Peer | title=Tarzan | website=IGN | date=July 14, 1999 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/1999/07/14/tarzan-2 | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Donkey Kong Country]]''<ref>{{cite web|last=Harris|first=Craig|title=Donkey Kong Country|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/11/23/donkey-kong-country-8|website=[[IGN]]|access-date=6 June 2020|date=22 November 2000|archive-date=6 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200606113034/https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/11/23/donkey-kong-country-8|url-status=live}}</ref>
* ''[[Donkey Kong Country]]''<ref>{{cite web|last=Harris|first=Craig|title=Donkey Kong Country|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/11/23/donkey-kong-country-8|website=[[IGN]]|access-date=6 June 2020|date=22 November 2000|archive-date=6 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200606113034/https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/11/23/donkey-kong-country-8|url-status=live}}</ref>
* ''[[List of Doraemon video games|Doraemon Kart 2]]'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=142}}
* ''Doraemon Memories: Nobita no Omoide Daibouken'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=161}}
* ''Doraemon no GameBoy de Asobouyo DX10'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=137}}
* ''Doraemon no Quiz Boy'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=166}}
* ''Dungeon Savior'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=171}}
* ''[[E.T. Digital Companion|E.T.: Digital Companion]]''<ref name=10games/>
* ''[[E.T. Digital Companion|E.T.: Digital Companion]]''<ref name=10games/>
* ''[[Hello Kitty|Fairy Kitty no Kaiun Jiten: Yousei no Kuni no Uranai Shugyou]]'' (Japan only)<ref>{{Cite book|title=Fairy Kitty no Kaiun Jiten: Yousei no Kuni no Uranai Shugyou|last=Tose|publisher=Imagineer|page=1|date=1998|type=instruction manual}}</ref>
* ''[[Rescue Heroes|Fisher-Price Rescue Heroes: Fire Frenzy]]''<ref>{{cite web | title=Rescue Heroes: Fire Frenzy | website=IGN | date=December 2, 2000 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/12/02/rescue-heroes-fire-frenzy | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Rescue Heroes|Fisher-Price Rescue Heroes: Fire Frenzy]]''<ref>{{cite web | title=Rescue Heroes: Fire Frenzy | website=IGN | date=December 2, 2000 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/12/02/rescue-heroes-fire-frenzy | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Game Boy Camera]]''<ref>{{cite web | last=Humphries | first=Matthew | title=Game Boy Camera Photos Can Finally Be Transferred to a Smartphone | website=PCMAG | date=July 12, 2021 | url=https://www.pcmag.com/news/game-boy-camera-photos-can-finally-be-transferred-to-a-smartphone | access-date=March 22, 2025}}</ref>
* [[Game Boy Camera]]<ref>{{cite web | last=Humphries | first=Matthew | title=Game Boy Camera Photos Can Finally Be Transferred to a Smartphone | website=PCMAG | date=July 12, 2021 | url=https://www.pcmag.com/news/game-boy-camera-photos-can-finally-be-transferred-to-a-smartphone | access-date=March 22, 2025}}</ref>
* ''Golf Ou: The King of Golf'' (Japan only)
* ''Hamster Club'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=154}}
* ''Hamster Paradise'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=141}}
* ''Hamster Paradise 2'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=163}}
* ''[[Harvest Moon 2]]''<ref>{{cite web | title=Harvest Moon 2 | website=IGN | date=November 29, 2000 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/11/29/harvest-moon-2 | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Harvest Moon 2]]''<ref>{{cite web | title=Harvest Moon 2 | website=IGN | date=November 29, 2000 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/11/29/harvest-moon-2 | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[List of Transformers video games#Kettō Transformers Beast Wars: Beast Senshi Saikyō Ketteisen|Kettō Transformers Beast Wars: Beast Senshi Saikyō Ketteisen]]''<ref>{{Cite book |last=Gaibrain |title=決闘 トランスフォーマー ビーストウォーズ ビースト戦士最強決定戦 |date=1999 |publisher=[[Takara]] |page=10 |type=instruction manual}}</ref>
* ''[[Hello Kitty|Hello Kitty no Beads Koubou]]'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=148}}
* ''Hello Kitty no Magical Museum'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=145}}
* ''[[Jinsei Game|Jinsei Game: Tomedachi Takusan Tsukurouyo!]]'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=144}}
* ''Kanji Boy'' (Japan only)<!--Pocket Printer icon appears on box-->
* ''[[Kakurenbo Battle Monster Tactics]]'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=177}}
* ''Karamuchou wa Oosawagi!: Okawari!'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=171}}
* ''Karamuchou wa Oosawagi!: Porinkiis to Okashina Nakamatachi'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=137}}
* ''Kaseki Sousei Reborn II: Monster Digger'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=141}}
* ''[[List of Transformers video games#Kettō Transformers Beast Wars: Beast Senshi Saikyō Ketteisen|Kettō Transformers Beast Wars: Beast Senshi Saikyō Ketteisen]]'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=142}}
* ''[[Martian Successor Nadesico|Kidou Senkan Nadesico: Ruri Ruri Mahjong]]'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=157}}
* ''[[Klax (video game)|Klax]]''<ref>{{cite web | title=Lords of the Jungle | website=IGN | date=July 17, 1999 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/1999/07/17/lords-of-the-jungle | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Klax (video game)|Klax]]''<ref>{{cite web | title=Lords of the Jungle | website=IGN | date=July 17, 1999 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/1999/07/17/lords-of-the-jungle | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''Konchuu Hakase 2'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=148}}
* ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening DX]]''<ref>{{cite magazine|magazine=Electronic Gaming Monthly|issue=116|date=February 1999|title=The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening DX|pages=80|url=https://archive.org/details/electronicgamingmonthlyissue115february1999}}</ref>  
* ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening DX]]''<ref>{{cite magazine|magazine=Electronic Gaming Monthly|issue=116|date=February 1999|title=The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening DX|pages=80|url=https://archive.org/details/electronicgamingmonthlyissue115february1999}}</ref>  
* ''[[The Little Mermaid 2: Pinball Frenzy]]''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2000/09/29/disneys-the-little-mermaid-ii-pinball-frenzy|title=Disney's The Little Mermaid II: Pinball Frenzy|last=Harris|first=Craig|date=September 29, 2000|work=[[IGN]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161112034720/http://www.ign.com/articles/2000/09/29/disneys-the-little-mermaid-ii-pinball-frenzy|archive-date=November 12, 2016|url-status=live}}
* ''[[The Little Mermaid 2: Pinball Frenzy]]''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2000/09/29/disneys-the-little-mermaid-ii-pinball-frenzy|title=Disney's The Little Mermaid II: Pinball Frenzy|last=Harris|first=Craig|date=September 29, 2000|work=[[IGN]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161112034720/http://www.ign.com/articles/2000/09/29/disneys-the-little-mermaid-ii-pinball-frenzy|archive-date=November 12, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>
</ref>
* ''[[Little Nicky (video game)|Little Nicky]]''<ref>{{cite web | last=Provo | first=Frank | title=Little Nicky Review | website=GameSpot | date=May 11, 2001 | url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/little-nicky-review/1900-2674892/ | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Little Nicky (video game)|Little Nicky]]''<ref>{{cite web | last=Provo | first=Frank | title=Little Nicky Review | website=GameSpot | date=May 11, 2001 | url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/little-nicky-review/1900-2674892/ | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Logical (video game)|Logical]]''<ref>{{Cite book |last=[[Conspiracy Entertainment]] |title=Asteroids |date=1999 |publisher=[[Activision]] |page=26 |type=instruction manual}}</ref>
* ''Logical''<ref>{{Cite book |last=[[Conspiracy Entertainment]] |title=Logical |date=1999 |publisher=[[Activision]] |page=26 |type=instruction manual}}</ref>
* ''[[Magical Drop III]]''<ref>{{Cite book |last=[[Conspiracy Entertainment]] |title=Logical |date=1999|publisher=[[Sunsoft]] |page=14 |type=instruction manual}}</ref>
* ''[[Love Hina|Love Hina Pocket]]'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=172}}
* ''[[Magical Drop III|Magical Drop]]''<ref>{{Cite book |last=[[Conspiracy Entertainment]] |title=Magical Drop III |date=1999|publisher=[[Sunsoft]] |page=14 |type=instruction manual}}</ref>
* ''Majokko Mari-chan no Kisekae Monogatari'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=151}}
* ''[[Mary-Kate and Ashley: Pocket Planner]]''<ref>{{cite web | title=Mary-Kate and Ashley Pocket Planner | website=IGN | date=February 21, 2001 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2001/02/21/mary-kate-and-ashley-pocket-planner-2 | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Mary-Kate and Ashley: Pocket Planner]]''<ref>{{cite web | title=Mary-Kate and Ashley Pocket Planner | website=IGN | date=February 21, 2001 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2001/02/21/mary-kate-and-ashley-pocket-planner-2 | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''McDonald's Monogatari: Honobono Tenchou Ikusei Game'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=192}}
* ''[[Mickey's Racing Adventure]]''<ref>{{cite web | title=Mickey's Speedway USA | website=Nintendo of Europe | date=October 24, 2012 | url=https://www.nintendo.com/en-gb/Games/Game-Boy/Mickey-s-Speedway-USA-266021.html | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Mickey's Racing Adventure]]''<ref>{{cite web | title=Mickey's Speedway USA | website=Nintendo of Europe | date=October 24, 2012 | url=https://www.nintendo.com/en-gb/Games/Game-Boy/Mickey-s-Speedway-USA-266021.html | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Mickey's Speedway USA]]''<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Mickey's Speedway USA|magazine=[[Nintendo Power]]|issue=142|publisher=[[Nintendo of America]]|date=March 2001|pages=62–67}}</ref>
* ''[[Mickey's Speedway USA]]''<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Mickey's Speedway USA|magazine=[[Nintendo Power]]|issue=142|publisher=[[Nintendo of America]]|date=March 2001|pages=62–67}}</ref>
* ''[[Mission: Impossible (Game Boy Color)|Mission: Impossible]]''<ref name=10games/>
* ''[[Mission: Impossible (Game Boy Color)|Mission: Impossible]]''<ref name=10games/>
* ''Monster ★ Race Okawari'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=135}}
* ''Monster ★ Race 2'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=142}}
* ''Nakayoshi Cooking Series 1: Oishii Cake Okusan'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=180}}
* ''Nakayoshi Cooking Series 2: Oishii Panya-San'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=188}}
* ''Nakayoshi Cooking Series 3: Tanoshii Obentou'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=191}}
* ''Nakayoshi Cooking Series 4: Tanoshii Dessert'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=196}}
* ''Nakayoshi Cooking Series 5: Komugi-Chan no Cake o Tsukurou!'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=199}}
* ''Nakayoshi Pet Series 1: Kawaii Hamster'' (Japan only)<ref>{{Cite book|title=Nakayoshi Pet Series 1: Kawaii Hamster|last=MTO|publisher=MTO|page=1|date=2000|type=instruction manual}}</ref>
* ''Nakayoshi Pet Series 2: Kawaii Usagi'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=164}}
* ''Nakayoshi Pet Series 3: Kawaii Koinu'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=173}}
* ''Nakayoshi Pet Series 4: Kawaii Koneko'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=183}}
* ''Nakayoshi Pet Series 5: Kawaii Hamster 2'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=189}}
* ''[[NFL Blitz]]''<ref>{{cite web | title=Mad Catz Camera Link Review | website=IGN | date=October 22, 1999 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/1999/10/22/mad-catz-camera-link-review | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[NFL Blitz]]''<ref>{{cite web | title=Mad Catz Camera Link Review | website=IGN | date=October 22, 1999 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/1999/10/22/mad-catz-camera-link-review | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Nintama Rantarō|Nintama Rantarou: Ninjutsu Gakuen ni Nyuugakushou no Dan]]'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=131}}
* ''Ojarumaru: Mitsunegai Jinja no Ennichi de Ojaru!'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=168}}
* ''Pachinko Data Card: Chou Ataru-kun'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=140}}
* ''[[Perfect Dark (Game Boy Color video game)|Perfect Dark]]''<ref>{{Cite web |access-date=28 November 2018 |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/09/06/perfect-dark |title=Perfect Dark |website=[[IGN]] |date=5 September 2000 |first=Craig |last=Harris |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121108113539/https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/09/06/perfect-dark |archive-date=8 November 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* ''[[Perfect Dark (Game Boy Color video game)|Perfect Dark]]''<ref>{{Cite web |access-date=28 November 2018 |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/09/06/perfect-dark |title=Perfect Dark |website=[[IGN]] |date=5 September 2000 |first=Craig |last=Harris |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121108113539/https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/09/06/perfect-dark |archive-date=8 November 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* ''Pocket Family GB'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=134}}
* ''Pocket Family GB2'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=150}}
* ''Pocket Kanjirou'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=127}}
* ''[[Puyo Puyo~n|Pocket Puyo Puyo~n]]'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=174}}
* ''[[Pokémon Trading Card Game (video game)|Pokémon Card GB2: Great Rocket-Dan Sanjō!]]'' (Japan only)<ref>{{cite web | title=ポケモンカードGB2 GR団参上！｜ポケットモンスターオフィシャルサイト | website=ポケットモンスターオフィシャルサイト | date=December 2, 2021 | url=https://www.pokemon.co.jp/game/other/gbc-gr/ | language=ja | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Pokémon Crystal]]''<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Pokémon Crystal |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |issue=147 |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |date=October 2001 |page=160}}</ref>
* ''[[Pokémon Crystal]]''<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Pokémon Crystal |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |issue=147 |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |date=October 2001 |page=160}}</ref>
* ''[[Pokémon Gold and Silver|''Pokémon Gold'' and ''Silver'']]''<ref>{{cite magazine|title=What's Next? |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |issue=124 |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |date=November 1999 |page=200}}</ref>
* ''[[Pokémon Gold]]''<ref name=PGS>{{cite magazine|title=What's Next? |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |issue=124 |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |date=November 1999 |page=200}}</ref>
* ''[[Pokémon Pinball]]''<ref name=10games>{{cite web | last=Kurland | first=Daniel | title=10 Game Boy Games That You Had No Idea Used The Game Boy Printer | website=CBR | date=May 22, 2022 | url=https://www.cbr.com/game-boy-games-that-used-printer/ | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Pokémon Pinball]]''<ref name=10games>{{cite web | last=Kurland | first=Daniel | title=10 Game Boy Games That You Had No Idea Used The Game Boy Printer | website=CBR | date=May 22, 2022 | url=https://www.cbr.com/game-boy-games-that-used-printer/ | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Pokémon Silver]]''<ref name=PGS/>
* ''[[Pokémon Trading Card Game (video game)|Pokémon Trading Card Game]]''<ref>{{cite web | title=Pokemon Trading Card Preview | website=GameSpot | date=August 15, 2001 | url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/pokemon-trading-card-preview/1100-2537187/ | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Pokémon Trading Card Game (video game)|Pokémon Trading Card Game]]''<ref>{{cite web | title=Pokemon Trading Card Preview | website=GameSpot | date=August 15, 2001 | url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/pokemon-trading-card-preview/1100-2537187/ | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Pokémon Trading Card Game (video game)|Pokémon Card GB2: Great Rocket-Dan Sanjō!]]''<ref>{{cite web | title=ポケモンカードGB2 GR団参上！｜ポケットモンスターオフィシャルサイト | website=ポケットモンスターオフィシャルサイト | date=December 2, 2021 | url=https://www.pokemon.co.jp/game/other/gbc-gr/ | language=ja | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Pokémon Yellow|Pokémon Yellow: Special Pikachu Edition]]''<ref>{{cite magazine|title=And The Rest... |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |issue=124 |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |date=November 1999 |page=209}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=GB時代の「ポケモン図鑑」隠し要素が海外掲示板で話題。『ピカチュウ』版の図鑑完成時にもらえる賞状を、外部機器「ポケットプリンタ」で印刷した時のみ確認できる特別なもの。「知らなかった」「学位より価値がある」 | trans-title=A hidden feature in the "Pokémon Encyclopedia" from the GB era has become a hot topic on overseas message boards. The certificate you receive when you complete the Pokédex in the "Pikachu" version is a special item that can only be seen when printed with an external device called the "Pocket Printer." "I didn't know this," "It's more valuable than a degree." | website=Den-fami Nico Gamer | date=May 9, 2025 | url=https://news.denfaminicogamer.jp/news/250509t | language=ja | access-date=November 3, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Pokémon Yellow|Pokémon Yellow: Special Pikachu Edition]]''<ref>{{cite magazine|title=And The Rest... |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |issue=124 |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |date=November 1999 |page=209}}</ref>
* ''Pro Mahjong Tsuwamono GB'' (Japan only)<!--Pocket Printer icon appears on box-->
* ''[[Puzzled (2000 video game)|Puzzled]]''<ref>{{Cite book |last=Elo Interactive |title=Puzzled |date=2001 |publisher=[[Conspiracy Entertainment]] |page=16 |type=instruction manual}}</ref>
* ''Purikura Pocket 3: Talent Debut Daisakusen'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=139}}
* ''Puzzled''<ref>{{Cite book |last=Elo Interactive |title=Puzzled |date=2001 |publisher=[[Conspiracy Entertainment]] |page=16 |type=instruction manual}}</ref>
* ''[[Quest for Camelot (1998 video game)|Quest for Camelot]]''<ref>{{Cite web|access-date=2014-03-17|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/1999/08/26/quest-for-camelot|title=Quest for Camelot|last=Cleveland|first=Adam|publisher=[[IGN]]|date=1999-08-25|archive-date=March 20, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140320234813/http://www.ign.com/articles/1999/08/26/quest-for-camelot|url-status=live}}</ref>
* ''[[Quest for Camelot (1998 video game)|Quest for Camelot]]''<ref>{{Cite web|access-date=2014-03-17|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/1999/08/26/quest-for-camelot|title=Quest for Camelot|last=Cleveland|first=Adam|publisher=[[IGN]]|date=1999-08-25|archive-date=March 20, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140320234813/http://www.ign.com/articles/1999/08/26/quest-for-camelot|url-status=live}}</ref>
* ''[[RPG Maker|RPG Tsukuuru GB]]'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=162}}
* ''[[Roadsters (video game)|Roadsters]]''<ref>{{cite web | last=Harris | first=Craig | title=Roadsters | website=IGN | date=February 24, 2000 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/02/24/roadsters-2 | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Roadsters (video game)|Roadsters]]''<ref>{{cite web | last=Harris | first=Craig | title=Roadsters | website=IGN | date=February 24, 2000 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/02/24/roadsters-2 | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Sanrio|Sanrio Timenet: Kako Hen]]'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=137}}
* ''Sanrio Timenet: Mirai Hen'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=137}}
* ''[[Neon Genesis Evangelion|Shin Seiki Evangelion: Mahjong Hokan Keikaku]]'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=175}}
* ''Soukoban Densetsu: Hikari to Yami no Kuni'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=158}}
* ''Super Black Bass Pocket 3'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=137}}
* ''[[Super Mario Bros. Deluxe]]''<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/super-mario-dx-review/1900-2536190/|title=Super Mario DX Review|first=Cameron|last=Davis|date=January 28, 2000|website=[[GameSpot]]|accessdate=July 4, 2023}}</ref>
* ''[[Super Mario Bros. Deluxe]]''<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/super-mario-dx-review/1900-2536190/|title=Super Mario DX Review|first=Cameron|last=Davis|date=January 28, 2000|website=[[GameSpot]]|accessdate=July 4, 2023}}</ref>
* ''Sweet Ange'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=156}}
* ''[[Sylvanian Families|Sylvanian Families: Otogi no Kuni no Pendant]]'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=152}}
* ''Sylvanian Families 2: Irozuku Mori no Fantasy'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=181}}
* ''Sylvanian Families 3: Hoshi Furu Yoru no Sunadokei'' (Japan only)<!--Pocket Printer icon appears on box-->
* ''[[Tales of Phantasia: Narikiri Dungeon]]'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=177}}
* ''[[Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2]]''<ref>{{Cite magazine |magazine=[[Nintendo Power]] |publisher=[[Nintendo of America]] |title=Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2 |page=116 |date=September 2000 |issue=136}}</ref>
* ''[[Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2]]''<ref>{{Cite magazine |magazine=[[Nintendo Power]] |publisher=[[Nintendo of America]] |title=Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2 |page=116 |date=September 2000 |issue=136}}</ref>
* ''[[Trade & Battle: Card Hero]]''<ref>{{cite web | title=Card Hero | website=IGN | date=March 24, 2000 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/03/24/card-hero | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
* ''[[Trade & Battle: Card Hero]]'' (Japan only)<ref>{{cite web | title=Card Hero | website=IGN | date=March 24, 2000 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/03/24/card-hero | access-date=March 25, 2025}}</ref>
{{div col end}}
* ''Tsuri Sensei 2'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=149}}
 
* ''[[Lemmings (video game)|VS Lemmings]]'' (Japan only)<ref name="GBpc"/>{{rp|p=165}}
==Thermal paper ==
}}
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Roll dimensions
!Roll width
!Roll diameter
!Central spindle core diameter
!Unrolled length
|-
|{{cvt|38|mm}}
|{{cvt|29.5-30|mm}}
|{{cvt|12|mm}}
|{{cvt|390-400|cm|ftin}}
|}
 
Released alongside the Game Boy Printer in 1998, Nintendo-manufactured thermal paper refill rolls were produced in white, cream, blue, yellow, and red variants, all of which had an integrated adhesive backing.
 
After powering the printer on, a clip at the rear of the protruding translucent grey refill housing is depressed, allowing this to be lifted away. The thermal paper roll inserted upside-down and unravelled end facing down, with this end being fed into a thin slot. The maroon 'FEED' button is then pressed down, which engages the uptake motor, and pulls the paper through to the exit slot which has an integrated serrated edge, which allows finished prints to be ripped away from the roll. Forcibly pulling the paper opposite to the feed direction causes permanent damage to the gearing within the feed mechanism.
 
When a picture was printed from the Game Boy Camera, it would print with a {{cvt|5|mm}} margin above and below the picture and print the picture at a {{cvt|23|mm}} height. This would give the total of {{cvt|33|mm}} height per picture. Although on-box advertisements boasted up to 180 pictures per roll, in actuality a typical roll could only print between 118 and 121 pictures.
 
Sold on the official Nintendo e-Shop (as triple packs of blue, cream and white rolls) until 2007, Game Boy branded official replacement thermal paper is now difficult to source. Even brand-new, sealed, un-opened official rolls degrade relatively quickly once opened (if they were stored correctly and their seal has not failed). Most, however, have suffered degradation whilst in storage due to a chemical reaction between the thermal paper and adhesive backing layer.<ref>{{Citation|last=Flickr|title=game boy printer problems|date=10 June 2006|url=https://www.flickr.com/groups/gameboycamera/discuss/72157594161638731/|access-date=2020-09-17|archive-date=2017-01-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170120223256/https://www.flickr.com/groups/gameboycamera/discuss/72157594161638731/|url-status=live}}</ref> Due to the proprietary nature of the adhesive-backing, replacement thermal paper that is able to be adhered to surfaces once printed upon (including brands such as 'MAXStick') is prohibitively expensive.
 
Instead, the thermal paper rolls can be successfully substituted with a '''38mm x 4m''' alternative, with or without ('core-less') spindle cores, without repercussions on the printer. Such rolls are also compatible with some hand-held printing calculators, such as the Canon TP-8, Texas Instruments 5000–2008, Sharp 8180, and Casio FX-802. Alternatively, wider rolls (such as '''57mm x 30mm x 12.7mm''') can be cut or trimmed to 38mm, and function without issue.
 
Please note, however, that due to the inherent limitations of thermal paper, photographs printed on thermal paper will fade over time (this depends heavily on the thermal paper variant used, and could be as short as a few months, or instead a few years) until the paper is virtually blank. Paper in this state can usually be re-used, as long as the length of the strip is long enough to be manually fed into the takeup.
 
It is unknown whether original Game Boy Printer paper contains the chemicals [[Bisphenol A|Bisphenol-A]] (BPA) or its analog [[Bisphenol S|Bisphenol-S]] (BPS). Previously very widely used in plastics and thermal receipt paper due to their heat resistance and stability, these are currently being phased out of thermal paper coatings due to their in-vivo accrual (via direct dermal absorption) and resultant oestrogen-mimicking and endocrine disruption.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bienkowski |first=Brian |date=2013-01-17 |title=BPA Replacement Also Alters Hormones |url=https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/bpa-replacement-also-alters-hormones/ |access-date=2020-09-17 |website=Scientific American |language=en |archive-date=2021-06-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210618110315/https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/bpa-replacement-also-alters-hormones/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Modern thermal paper roll replacements, or their manufacturers, usually clearly state if they are Bisphenol free [BP-Free].
 
==Protocol==
 
The communication between the Game Boy and the Game Boy Printer is via a simple serial link. Serial clock (provided by the Game Boy for the printer), serial data output (from Game Boy to printer) as well as serial data input (to Game Boy from printer). The Game Boy sends a packet to the printer, to which the printer responds with an acknowledgement as well as a status code.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gbdev.gg8.se/wiki/articles/Gameboy_Printer|title=Gameboy Printer|website=GbdevWiki|access-date=2017-04-09|archive-date=2021-06-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210603211734/https://gbdev.gg8.se/wiki/articles/Gameboy_Printer|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mikrocontroller.net/attachment/34801/gb-printer.txt|title=GB Printer interface specification|date=December 1, 2001|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090615192718/https://www.mikrocontroller.net/attachment/34801/gb-printer.txt|archive-date=June 15, 2009|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{cite web|url=https://shonumi.github.io/articles/art2.html|title=In Depth: The Game Boy Printer|date=September 7, 2016|website=Shonumi|access-date=April 11, 2017|archive-date=June 3, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210603211621/https://shonumi.github.io/articles/art2.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
 
=== Packet Format ===
Communication is via the Game Boy sending to the printer a simple packet structure as shown below. In general, between the first "sync_word" til the checksum is the Game Boy communicating to the printer. The last two bytes of the packet are for the printer to acknowledge and show its current status code.
 
<!--
 
  | BYTE POS :    |    0    |    1    |    2    |      3      |    4    |    5    |  6 + X    | 6 + X + 1 | 6 + X + 2 | 6 + X + 3 | 6 + X + 4 |
  |---------------|-----------|-----------|-----------|-------------|-----------|-----------|-----------|-----------|-----------|-----------|-----------|
  | SIZE          |        2 Bytes        |  1 Byte  |  1 Byte    |  1 Bytes  |  1 Bytes  | Variable  |        2 Bytes        |  1 Bytes  |  1 Bytes  |
  | DESCRIPTION  |      SYNC_WORD      | COMMAND  | COMPRESSION |    DATA_LENGTH(X)    | Payload  |      CHECKSUM        |    ACK    |  STATUS  |
  | GB TO PRINTER |    0x88  |    0x33  | See Below | See Below  | Low Byte  | High Byte | See Below |      See Below      |    0x00  |    0x00  |
  | PRINTER TO GB |    0x00  |    0x00  |    0x00  |  0x00      |    0x00  |    0x00  |    0x00  |    0x00  |    0x00  |    0x81  | See Below |
 
-->
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Byte Position !! 0 !! 1 !! 2 !! 3 !! 4 !! 5 !! 6+X !! 6+X+1 !! 6+X+2 !! 6+X+3 !! 6+X+4
|-
| Size || 2 bytes || 2 bytes || 1 byte || 1 byte || 1 byte || 1 byte || Variable || 2 bytes || 2 bytes || 1 byte || 1 byte
|-
| Description || SYNC_WORD || SYNC_WORD || COMMAND || COMPRESSION || DATA_LENGTH(X) || DATA_LENGTH(X) || Payload || CHECKSUM || CHECKSUM || ACK || STATUS
|-
| GB TO PRINTER || 0x88 || 0x33 || See Below || See Below || Low Byte || High Byte || See Below || See Below || See Below || 0x00 || 0x00
|-
| PRINTER TO GB || 0x00 || 0x00 || 0x00 || 0x00 || 0x00 || 0x00 || 0x00 || 0x00 || 0x00 || 0x81 || See Below
|}
 
* Command may be either Initialize (0x01), Data (0x04), Print (0x02), or Inquiry (0x0F).
* Payload byte count size depends on the value of the `DATA_LENGTH` field.
* Compression field is a compression indicator. No compression = 0x00
* Checksum is a simple sum of bytes in command, data length, and the data payload.
* Status byte is a bit-field byte indicating various status of the printer itself. (e.g. If it is still printing)
 
=== Commands ===
 
==== Initialize (0x01) ====
* Typical Payload Size = 0
This packet is sent without a data payload. It signals to the printer to clear the settings and prepare for the first data payload.
 
==== Data (0x04) ====
* Typical Payload Size = 640
The data packet is for transferring the image data to the printer data buffer. The typical size of the data payload is 640 bytes since it can store two printable rows of 20 standard Game Boy tile (2 bit color in 8x8 pixels grid), of which the Game Boy tile takes 16 bytes.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.huderlem.com/demos/gameboy2bpp.html|title=Gameboy 2BPP Graphics Format|last=Huderle|first=Marcus|date=June 29, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180625064314/http://www.huderlem.com/demos/gameboy2bpp.html|archive-date=June 25, 2018|url-status=live|access-date=April 11, 2017}}</ref>
 
==== Print (0x02) ====
* Typical Payload Size = 4
This commands the printer to start printing. It also has 4 settings bytes for printing.<ref name=":0" />
{| class="wikitable"
!Payload Byte
!Type
!Typical Value
!note
|-
|0
|Unknown
| 0x1
|
|-
|1
|Printing Margins
|?
|High Nibble for top margin. Low Nibble for bottom margin
|-
|2
|Palette
|0xE4
|
|-
|3
|Print head strength
|?
|7 bit value
|}
 
==== Inquiry (0x0F) ====
* Typical Payload Size = 0
Used for checking the printer status byte. This may be for checking if there is enough data in the printer buffer to start printing smoothly or if the printer is currently printing.


=== Printer Status Reply Byte ===
Some games intended to feature Game Boy Printer support, such as ''[[Pokemon Picross]]'' and ''[[Hello Kitty|Hello Kitty Pocket Camera]]'', were never released.<ref>{{cite web | last=Torres | first=Sheila | title=Pokémon Picross: Inside The Cancelled Game Boy Color Spin-Off | website=TheGamer | date=July 30, 2020 | url=https://www.thegamer.com/pokemon-picross-cancelled-game-boy-color-spin-off/ | access-date=August 20, 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | last=Walker | first=Ian | title=New Nintendo Leak Includes Numerous Unreleased Game Boy Games | website=Kotaku | date=September 10, 2020 | url=https://kotaku.com/new-nintendo-leak-includes-several-unreleased-game-boy-1845017212 | access-date=August 20, 2025}}</ref> During development of ''[[Pokémon Snap]]'' (1999), [[Satoru Iwata]] experimented with transferring photos to the Game Boy Camera using the [[Transfer Pak]] so that they could be printed using the Game Boy Printer; however, the development team found the printer's output quality to be insufficient, and the feature was abandoned in favor of printing stickers through specialized stations at specific retailers.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=大爆笑HAL研ブラザーズ |trans-title=Big Laugh HAL Laboratory Bros. |magazine=The 64Dream |issue=32 |publisher=Mainichi Communications |date=May 1999 |page=85 |lang=ja}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Bit X
! Status Byte Bit Position Meaning
|-
| Bit 7
| Battery Too Low
|-
| Bit 6
| Other Error
|-
| Bit 5
| Paper Jam
|-
| Bit 4
| Packet Error
|-
| Bit 3
| Unprocessed Data
|-
| Bit 2
| Image Data Full
|-
| Bit 1
| Printer Busy
|-
| Bit 0
| Checksum Error
|}


==Usage today==
==Legacy==
Mad Catz<ref>"[https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00002AH2V Mad Catz GB to PC Camera Link Cable (GBC)] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191212130156/https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00002AH2V |date=2019-12-12 }}". November 20th, 2010.</ref> and Xchanger sold a kit that enabled users to connect a Game Boy to a [[Personal Computer|PC]] and print images using the PC's printer. Hobbyists outside the UK can also make their own cable for uploading images to their computer.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.ziegler.desaign.de/gb2pp7.gif|title=Game Boy to LPT Cable diagram|last=Frohwein|first=Jeff|date=April 5, 1998|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100223045656/http://www.ziegler.desaign.de/gb2pp7.gif|archive-date=February 23, 2010|url-status=dead|access-date=July 17, 2009}}</ref> A Game Boy Printer [[video game console emulator|emulator]] is needed for the Game Boy to interface with the PC once linked via cable.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://skyscraper.fortunecity.com/macro/730/|title=Gameboy Printer Emulator|last=Eyre|first=Martin|date=September 18, 1998|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111011085022/http://skyscraper.fortunecity.com/macro/730/|archive-date=October 11, 2011|url-status=dead|access-date=July 17, 2009}}</ref> The Game Boy Printer Paper has also been discontinued, and rolls of the genuine article that still produce a reliable image are becoming more difficult to find.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.flickr.com/groups/gameboycamera/discuss/72157594161638731/|title=game boy printer problems|date=June 10, 2006|website=[[Flickr]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170120223256/https://www.flickr.com/groups/gameboycamera/discuss/72157594161638731/|archive-date=January 20, 2017|url-status=live|access-date=July 17, 2009}}</ref> Regular thermal paper, such as the kind used for [[POS terminal]]s, can be cut to the proper width and used successfully with the Game Boy Printer.<ref>{{Cite AV media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LWlymZDFEs8|title=Make your own Game Boy Printer Paper video tutorial|language=en|access-date=July 17, 2009|via=YouTube|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150110231528/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LWlymZDFEs8|archive-date=January 10, 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref>
Due to the discontinuation of its proprietary printer paper and the impermanence of thermal printing, the Game Boy Printer does not see significant use in the modern day.<ref name=NF/><ref>{{cite web | last=Chrysostomou | first=George | title=The History and Evolution of Game Boy Accessories | website=Den of Geek | date=April 25, 2024 | url=https://www.denofgeek.com/games/the-history-of-game-boy-accessories/ | access-date=October 21, 2025}}</ref> As a result, hobbyists have developed alternate homebrew methods to transfer printer images from the Game Boy to more modern devices.<ref>{{cite web | last=Humphries | first=Matthew | title=Game Boy Camera Photos Can Finally Be Transferred to a Smartphone | website=PCMAG | date=July 12, 2021 | url=https://www.pcmag.com/news/game-boy-camera-photos-can-finally-be-transferred-to-a-smartphone | access-date=October 21, 2025}}</ref>


The system will print a test message reading "Hello" if it is turned on while the feed button is held. According to the manual, this is used to test if the printer is functioning properly. To get around using six AA batteries (1.5 volts each) for the printer, a single [[Nine-volt battery|9V battery]] can be used if wired properly, because the printer requires 9V DC.{{Citation needed|date=February 2019}}
Some [[homebrew (video games)|homebrew]] games developed since the system's discontinuation have featured Game Boy Printer support.<ref>{{cite web | first=Theo | last=Liston | title=New Game Boy Title 'Song Of Morus' Is A Boss Rush Shoot 'Em Up With Game Boy Printer Functionality | website=Retro Dodo | date=April 19, 2024 | url=https://retrododo.com/song-of-morus-game-boy-printer/ | access-date=December 8, 2025}}</ref> The instax mini Link, a printer released by [[Fujifilm]] in 2021 which allows images to be printed from a [[Nintendo Switch]], has also drawn comparisons to the Game Boy Printer by the gaming press.<ref>{{cite web | last=Lynn | first=Lottie | title=The Game Boy Printer lives on in the instax mini Link Special Edition | website=Eurogamer.net | date=May 11, 2021 | url=https://www.eurogamer.net/the-game-boy-printer-lives-on-in-the-instax-mini-link-special-edition | access-date=October 21, 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | last=McFerran | first=Damien | title=The Spirit Of The Game Boy Printer Lives On Thanks To Fujifilm And Your Nintendo Switch | website=Nintendo Life | date=April 22, 2021 | url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2021/04/the_spirit_of_the_game_boy_printer_lives_on_thanks_to_fujifilm_and_your_nintendo_switch | access-date=October 21, 2025}}</ref>


==Notes==
==Notes==

Latest revision as of 15:14, 8 December 2025

Template:Short description Template:Infobox information appliance The Game Boy Printer, known as the Template:Nihongo foot in Japan, is a thermal printer accessory released by Nintendo. It allows users to print special images from over 100 compatible Game Boy and Game Boy Color games onto thermal paper, which can then be applied as stickers. The accessory was designed primarily for use with the Game Boy Camera, which it released alongside in 1998.

Overview

File:Nintendo PocketPrinter.JPG
The Japanese version, known as the Pocket Printer

The Game Boy Printer was originally designed by Hirokazu Tanaka for use with the Game Boy Camera.[1] It connects to the Game Boy through the system's EXT port, similar to the Game Link Cable. As different Game Boy models feature differently-sized ports, the printer is packaged with a "Universal Game Link Cable" that features multiple connector types.[2] The device is compatible with all Game Boy models except the Game Boy Micro, which uses a different port type and cannot play Game Boy and Game Boy Color games.[3]

The printer requires six AA batteries for power.[3] It uses a proprietary 38mm wide thermal paper with adhesive backing, though printed images are only 22mm in width.[4] The printer is only capable of printing monochrome images; to compensate, Nintendo sold paper rolls in multiple colors.[5] New paper rolls were sold at a price of Template:Yen in Japan and Template:Usd in the United States, and could print an estimated 100 images each.[4][6] Once printed, the adhesive backing allowed the images to be applied as stickers.[7]

In Japan, a Pokémon-themed version of the printer was released in September 1998 alongside Pokémon Yellow.[8]

Games with Game Boy Printer support

File:Gameboyprinter-hardware 2.jpg
Internal components of the Game Boy Printer

The Game Boy Printer was primarily intended to act as a companion to the Game Boy Camera, allowing players to print their photographs.[7] However, multiple other games released between 1998 and 2001 featured support for the Game Boy Printer, allowing players to print their high scores or special unlockable images.[7] The first game to be designed with printer compatibility was Pokémon Yellow, which allowed players to print out any Pokémon's Pokédex entry;[9] this feature would be carried forward to later Pokémon series entries on the system.[3]

The following is a list of 110 games that support the Game Boy Printer, only 35 of which were released outside of Japan.

Template:Collist

Some games intended to feature Game Boy Printer support, such as Pokemon Picross and Hello Kitty Pocket Camera, were never released.[10][11] During development of Pokémon Snap (1999), Satoru Iwata experimented with transferring photos to the Game Boy Camera using the Transfer Pak so that they could be printed using the Game Boy Printer; however, the development team found the printer's output quality to be insufficient, and the feature was abandoned in favor of printing stickers through specialized stations at specific retailers.[12]

Legacy

Due to the discontinuation of its proprietary printer paper and the impermanence of thermal printing, the Game Boy Printer does not see significant use in the modern day.[5][13] As a result, hobbyists have developed alternate homebrew methods to transfer printer images from the Game Boy to more modern devices.[14]

Some homebrew games developed since the system's discontinuation have featured Game Boy Printer support.[15] The instax mini Link, a printer released by Fujifilm in 2021 which allows images to be printed from a Nintendo Switch, has also drawn comparisons to the Game Boy Printer by the gaming press.[16][17]

Notes

Template:Notelist

References

<templatestyles src="Reflist/styles.css" />

  1. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  2. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  3. ↑ a b c Script error: No such module "Citation/CS1".
  4. ↑ a b Cite error: Script error: No such module "Namespace detect".Script error: No such module "Namespace detect".
  5. ↑ a b Cite error: Script error: No such module "Namespace detect".Script error: No such module "Namespace detect".
  6. ↑ Cite error: Script error: No such module "Namespace detect".Script error: No such module "Namespace detect".
  7. ↑ a b c Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  8. ↑ Script error: No such module "Citation/CS1".
  9. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  10. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  11. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  12. ↑ Script error: No such module "Citation/CS1".
  13. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  14. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  15. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  16. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  17. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".

Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".

Template:Game Boy line Script error: No such module "Navbox".

Retrieved from "http://debianws.lexgopc.com/wiki143/index.php?title=Game_Boy_Printer&oldid=4743449"