The Game Bub handheld brings classic Game Boy, Game Boy Color and Game Boy Advance gaming in one open-source device. With support for original cartridges and microSD-based ROM files, it bridges the gap between physical collections and digital libraries. Fans can enjoy their cartridge collection or explore homebrew titles without needing additional flash carts. This design attracts anyone passionate about handheld gaming history.
Loading games is as easy as inserting a cartridge or copying ROM files to the microSD card. During play sessions, built-in vibration feedback and a real-time clock enable games that rely on force feedback or timed events. Motion controls via the onboard accelerometer and gyroscope open gameplay possibilities. Multiplayer gaming is supported through a GBA-type link port compatible with other Game Bub units and original Game Boy hardware. Automatic backup and restore functions safeguard the saved data.
The handheld features a 3.5-inch IPS display with a 480 X 320 resolution and stereo speakers for clear audio. Its rechargeable battery provides over fifteen hours of play, eliminating disposable batteries. For larger screens, an optional Dock adds HDMI output and wireless controller support available which allows the user to connect to a television or monitor. A microSD slot handles game files and backup storage, keeping all data in one place.
At its core, Game Bub uses an AMD Artix 7 XC7A100T FPGA with over 101000 logic cells and 607.5 KiB of block RAM to deliver hardware-level accuracy. An ESP32-S3 microcontroller manages auxiliary tasks and provides Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. The system offers 32 MiB of SDRAM and 512 KiB of SRAM attached to the FPGA as well as a PMOD header for future expansions. All hardware, firmware and gateware source files are freely available on GitHub, the creator inviting developers to review, modify or contribute to the project and development. For more information about the product, kindly visit to the Crowd Supply page of the product.
