The Game Bub: Your Open-Source FPGA Gameboy

Other FPGA FPGA Gaming Game Boy Game Boy Advance Game Boy Color

The Game Bub is an open-source, FPGA-based retro-emulation handheld developed by Second Bedroom. It is designed to play games from the Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance. The device is compatible with both original game cartridges and ROM files, which can be loaded from a microSD card.

The handheld includes several key features for an enhanced gaming experience. It is equipped with a backlit IPS screen, stereo speakers, and a rechargeable USB Type-C battery that provides over 15 hours of battery life. To ensure full compatibility with a wide range of games, the Game Bub incorporates a built-in rumble motor, a real-time clock, an accelerometer, and a gyroscope.

For multiplayer functionality, the device supports link cables, allowing it to connect with other Game Bub units or original Game Boy systems. It is also capable of backing up and restoring game cartridges.

An optional accessory, the Game Bub Dock, is available to extend the device’s capabilities. When docked, the handheld can connect to a television via HDMI and supports a variety of Bluetooth controllers, including those from Xbox, DualShock, and Switch Pro.The Game Bub is built around the XC7A100T FPGA and includes an ESP32-S3 microcontroller, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth LE. The project’s hardware, firmware, and gateware are all fully open-source, making it a platform for FPGA development and customization.

Its also nice to see the initial design plans go from portrait to landscape. This new ergonomical design will be better for extended playing sessions.

If you’re interested in buying one, you can back the Crowd Supply Campaign here

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