A hardware enthusiast known as @natalie_thenerd has surprised the modding community by turning the recently released lego game boy configured into a fully functional console capable of running real Nintendo Game Boy cartridges, without relying on emulation. The project was completed in less than a day after the official launch of the LEGO set and integrates authentic Game Boy components.
The LEGO Game Boy, praised for its faithful design and nostalgic details, served as immediate inspiration for Natalie. Examining the model, he noticed an opening behind the screen intended to contain a decorative cartouche. This design element sparked the idea of modifying the toy so it could actually be played with.
According Tom HardwareNatalie designed a custom printed circuit board (PCB) presenting a MGB CPUthe same processor used in the original gameboy pocketalong with built-in RAM to save space. The result is a compact board, smaller than even a standard Game Boy cartridge, but fully capable of reading and running original Nintendo game cartridges.
In videos shared on her blog, Natalie demonstrates how the modified LEGO console boots up successfully. Tetrisconfirming that the system can recognize and load authentic game cartridges. The project also features what she describes as the Smallest display kit available on the marketreplacing the decorative pieces of the LEGO display. To fit the electronics, it was necessary to remove or adjust some original LEGO parts.
Although the system can now turn on and read cartridges, the mod is still a work in progress. While the buttons can be pressed, they are not yet fully functional. In an interview with The edgeNatalie explained that she plans to design and 3D print custom parts to connect the buttons directly to the PCB, ensuring proper input response. He also promised to hold a full demonstration once construction is complete.
The unmodified LEGO Game Boy set is still available for purchase for $59.99 through the My Nintendo store and the LEGO official website.
Filed in . Read more about Gameboy, Lego and Nintendo.
