Introduction
A recent development in the world of gaming and DIY projects has emerged with the announcement of an upgrade kit for the Lego Game Boy, allowing it to play genuine Game Boy cartridges. This innovative kit, named Build A Boy, was unveiled by a creator known as Natalie the Nerd, who has already made significant strides in transforming the Lego set into a functional gaming device. This article delves into the details of the upgrade kit, its features, and the broader implications for the gaming community.
Overview of the Upgrade Kit
Natalie the Nerd has designed the Build A Boy kit to be a drop-in, solder-free upgrade for the Lego Game Boy. This kit includes essential components such as a harvested Game Boy Pocket CPU, a high-resolution 2.7-inch display, and working switches that can be placed behind the Lego buttons and D-pad for authentic gameplay. Additionally, the kit features a speaker, a volume wheel, a rechargeable battery, and a USB-C port for charging, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
Customization and Features
One of the standout aspects of the Build A Boy kit is the option for customization. Natalie has indicated plans to offer an optional glass lens to replace the standard plastic window that Lego uses, catering to those who prefer a more premium look. Furthermore, she is exploring the possibility of including video output capabilities, allowing users to connect to external screens, although details on this feature are still tentative.
The display resolution of 320 x 320 will upscale original Game Boy images, maintaining their aspect ratio while enhancing clarity. However, Natalie has chosen not to include a Link Cable port for multiplayer gaming, as she does not consider it a priority, although she may leave a pinout for modders to implement their own solutions.
Production and Availability
Natalie has sourced damaged Game Boy Pockets for the necessary components, but she anticipates that demand may exceed supply. For those with a donor Game Boy Pocket, a version of the kit will be available that only requires the CPU and RAM. Additionally, a DIY version will be offered for experienced modders. While the pricing for the full kit is not finalized, Natalie aims for a target price of around $99, pending external economic factors. She expects to start sales in early 2026, with the first test boards arriving imminently.
Competing Solutions
The Build A Boy kit is not the only option for enthusiasts looking to play Game Boy games through Lego. Another modder, Hairo Satoh, has developed a Game Boy Color version that uses real cartridges but requires significant modifications to the Lego shell. Additionally, a competing kit called BrickBoy is set to launch on Kickstarter soon, which offers a less invasive solution by playing ROMs via an emulator rather than actual cartridges. While this may appeal to some users, it does not replicate the experience of using original Game Boy games.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Build A Boy upgrade kit marks an exciting intersection of nostalgia and modern technology within the gaming community. By enabling the Lego Game Boy to play authentic cartridges, Natalie the Nerd is not only enhancing the gaming experience but also fostering a culture of creativity and innovation among DIY enthusiasts. As the market for such kits expands, it reflects a growing trend of merging classic gaming with contemporary design, appealing to both collectors and new players alike.