In a revolutionary twist to the world of retro gaming, a ground breaking Kickstarter project named Reboi is making waves. Spearheaded by inventor James Sargent, Reboi isn’t your typical Game Boy Colour modification—it’s a full-fledged computer in the guise of a cherished Nintendo handheld. Sargent intentionally designed Reboi to be user-friendly, ensuring even those with limited hardware skills can assemble their very own Game Boy computer.
The Transformation Process
Unlike conventional Game Boy Colour mods that rely on the original motherboard, Reboi takes a unique approach. Powering this technological marvel is the Raspberry Pi Zero, a miniature yet powerful computer that users must provide themselves. While any Zero model suffices, Sargent strongly recommends opting for the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W to maximize the mod’s capabilities.
Additionally, users need to procure a Game Boy Colour shell, readily available from various online markets. Third-party “after market” shells, though not Nintendo-official, seamlessly integrate with the project and come at a fraction of the cost of the authentic counterparts.
Versatility at Your Fingertips
Reboi boasts the versatility of a computer running on a Raspberry Pi, all encapsulated within the Game Boy Colour’s modest display. Sargent demonstrates its capabilities in the Kickstarter video, showcasing the device running a desktop OS, playing videos, and even running Minecraft—an impressive feat for a handheld console that predates the game by over a decade. While peripherals can enhance the user experience, Reboi truly shines as a portable retro gaming machine powered by RetroPie.
In the realm of retro gaming, Reboi excels, allowing users to play not only classic Game Boy titles like Pokémon and Zelda but also extending compatibility to Super Nintendo cartridges and even vintage PC games.
Building Your Own Reboi
What sets Reboi apart is its accessibility. Sargent simplifies the build process, providing users with the necessary components, including the motherboard and a backlit display. Assembling Reboi involves a straightforward process of snapping and screwing pieces into place, with connecting the display to the motherboard as the most intricate step.
The motherboard incorporates the RP2040 microcontroller, functioning as a keyboard emulator. This allows users to interact with the Game Boy buttons and type seamlessly. Additionally, the RP2040 supports dimmable RGB lights and battery monitoring, ensuring users are aware of the device’s power status.
Securing Your Reboi
As of the latest update, Reboi has surpassed its Kickstarter funding goal of $19,075, garnering support from over 200 backers. To get your hands on a Reboi kit, a pledge of £79 (approximately $86 USD) is required. This includes the motherboard, backlit display, necessary hardware, two AA batteries, and a decorative cartridge that adds to the device’s aesthetic appeal.
However, it’s crucial to note that backing a Kickstarter project doesn’t guarantee product reception. If all goes according to plan, Sargent anticipates sending out Reboi kits to backers around August of this year.
Conclusion
Reboi emerges as a game-changer in the world of retro gaming and DIY tech projects, offering enthusiasts the chance to transform their beloved Game Boy Colour into a fully functional Raspberry Pi-powered computer. With a focus on simplicity and accessibility, Reboi opens up a new realm of possibilities for both gaming and computing aficionados. As we eagerly await the fruition of this promising project, the gaming community is left buzzing with anticipation for the August release and the potential future developments this innovative venture might bring.
