It really was just a matter of time before the LEGO Game Boy was capable of actually playing genuine Game Boy titles, wasn’t it?
I was pretty excited to read about the arrival of the LEGO Game Boy when it was announced earlier this year. While not a fan of the console first time around, I’m still a retro gamer, and as I have a couple of originals, I thought it would be good to have a brick-based LEGO Game Boy on display.
But looking back, I knew it was just a matter of time before the LEGO Game Boy was adapted into a functioning console, but I had no idea it would be quite as quick as this. The person behind this is Natalie The Nerd, who joked about the idea of making a PCB for the device back when it was announced… and has pretty much followed through on the promise.
As you can see from their blog, the LEGO Game Boy is already up and running, but refinements are required. Some custom bricks have been added, such as for a USB-C charger for the custom updated Game Boy PCB.
I didn’t really know what the buttons on the Lego would be like, but the fact that they could be pressed was enough for me to know I could implement them. At the moment I have them wired up to custom 3D printed *toy brick* parts. Same with the USB C
My attempt would be terrible
I’ll be honest, if I’d had tried to turn the LEGO Game Boy into a real console, the results would not have been as impressive. Inevitably, I’d have started off with a Raspberry Pi Zero and not bothered with a real cartridge port. And I would probably have needed additional bricks outside the main build, and ended up with something closer to a Star Trek: The Next Generation tricorder.
Lego Game Boy details
Just so you’re up to speed, here’s what you can expect from the LEGO Game Boy kit (which does not come with a PCB):
- Build this LEGO seLEGO model building kit for adults – Inspire memories of classic video games with this near 1:1 scale replica model of the original Game Boy handheld game system from Nintendo
- Authentic details – Recreate the +Control Pad, A and B Buttons, SELECT and START, the contrast adjustment and volume dial and the Game Pak slot, and display your brick-built Game Boy on the stand
- A joyful build – The building set offers an immersive activity for experienced LEGO builders and includes step-by-step instructions so Game Boy fans who are LEGO newcomers can also enjoy the challenge
- Customise your display – Includes interchangeable, brick-built The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening or Super Mario Land Game Boy Game Paks and lenticular screens, plus a Nintendo start screen
- Nostalgic gift for video game fans – This building set for adults makes a great treat for yourself or a fun gaming gift for men and women who are fans of Super Mario or The Legend of Zelda
- 3D building instructions – Enjoy every step of your build with the LEGO Builder app; you can zoom and rotate your model in 3D, track your progress and save all your sets in one place
- Nintendo-themed collectible – This LEGO build-and-display model is part of a large assortment of LEGO Sets for Adults designed for people who enjoy hands-on creative activities to relax
You can get the LEGO Game Boy on Amazon now.
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Christian Cawley is a writer and editor who covers consumer electronics, IT, and entertainment media. He has written for publications such as Computer Weekly, Linux Format, MakeUseOf.com, and Tech Radar.
He also produces podcasts, has a cigar box guitar, and of course, loves retro gaming.