eli5: How did gameboys not only function in but actually need very bright external light in order to see the screen, but modern screens with built-in backlights are nearly impossible to use on bright sunny days?

Question

eli5: How did gameboys not only function in but actually need very bright external light in order to see the screen, but modern screens with built-in backlights are nearly impossible to use on bright sunny days?

In: Technology

Answer 1

Different technologies. The game it used reflected ambient light and filtered it through the crystal matrix; modern displays have a projected light from behind that gets filtered as it comes out towards your eyes.

But not all displays are like that; eBook readers and my Garmin watch both work best with reflected ambient light.