Panic sells a handful of accessories for the Playdate that users can buy to personalize the handheld, and one of them is the Playdate Cover. It is a magnetic flip case that protects the Playdate when in your pocket or bag. The cover was initially available in three colors but has now been joined by a fourth.
The new color is Yellow which matches the color of the Playdate itself. Previously, the Playdate Cover was available to buy in Purple, Aqua, and Pizza. The new yellow cover marks the third accessory Panic has released in a color that matches the handheld. Last year, it released a 10W AC adapter for the device. It also sells a USB-C to USB-A cable in the same yellow color.
The Playdate Cover is made of synthetic leather (polyurethane) and has magnets that keep it secure to the handheld. While the case leaves the sides of the Playdate exposed, it protects the screen and back. The underside of the top part of the case even has indentations for the D-pad and A and B buttons.
The yellow Playdate Cover is available to buy now for $34, the same price as the other color options. However, buyers can save some money if they opt to buy the Playdate Cover bundle which includes the Playdate and a case for $249 instead of $263 when purchased separately.
In related news, Panic still has certified refurbished units of the Playdate available for purchase. It began selling them last month following the announcement of a price increase for the Playdate. It did say they will be available in very limited stock, so it is nice to see they are still available nearly a month later. Priced at $179, a refurbished unit is significantly cheaper than the $229 price tag of a brand new unit. The refurbished Playdate comes with all 24 games of season 1, a USB-C to USB-A cable, and a 6-month limited warranty.