What is it?
A tiny, yellow handheld gaming console with a crank.
Why is it cool?
Because it turns gaming — literally — on its head. The Playdate is unlike anything else: a bright, minimalist gadget with a black-and-white screen, D-pad, buttons, and a crank on the side that’s actually part of gameplay. It comes preloaded with a unique ‘Season One’ of 24 indie games, delivered two per week, and supports sideloading as well as games sold via its on-device Catalog. Under the cheerful exterior sits a 168 MHz processor, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and an accelerometer, packed into a body small enough to disappear into your jeans. Developers can even build their own games using free tools — no license or approval needed. It’s fun, unpredictable, and full of charm.
Is it expensive?
At $ 229 (around Rs.19,000), it’s not exactly pocket change. But for a fresh take on portable play — and the crank — it’s just weird enough to be worth it.
