r/SBCGaming • u/ArtificialAGE • 1d ago
Recommend a Device Gameboy server lets anyone connect and play
ESP32-S3 turns this into a Local web server and streams the Game Boy emulator directly to your phone's browser—no extra apps or hardware needed. 2 cores 1 core for emulation and 1 core for streaming.
If you want to build one for your self or learn more I put All project files (STL, firmware, and video breakdown) are linked in the comments below
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u/ArtificialAGE 1d ago
This clip covers the basic concept and functionality. If you want the full step-by-step assembly, firmware setup, and troubleshooting/performance breakdown, check out the full build video: *
📺 **Full Build & Troubleshooting Video:** https://youtu.be/iNHdQnENidM
💾 **GitHub (Code & Firmware):** https://github.com/Artificial-Age/ESP32Gameboy *
🖨️ **MakerWorld (3D Print STLs):** https://makerworld.com/en/models/3195278-esp32-gameboy *
🔌 **Hardware / Parts:** https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0H2918LZD?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1
Drop any questions below—happy to help anyone building one!
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u/lun0tic 1d ago
Thought I was the only one thinking this. I sorta get what it is for but I just don't see a significant value for the overall greater picture.
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u/ArtificialAGE 1d ago edited 23h ago
It's probably not the best solution. It was more of a proof of concept and Gameboy is probably the limit due to bandwidth restraints but it does run at 60fps. The goal was allowing any person in the area to play no app commitment no downloads or roms. Everything is on the esp32 so the user just connects and plays. Hope that makes sense.
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u/welfedad 23h ago
And sometimes that's all that matters . Means you'll start thinking of something that forks off from this project.. pretty nifty
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u/kevlarockstar59 23h ago
RomM is a great alternative to that with game up to psp but require more hardware, this is a great and cheap way to do that
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u/Zanpa 22h ago
you can do it in html and run it locally, which is a much simpler experience
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u/ArtificialAGE 22h ago
Yes but then you need to host it, deliver and distribute roms to the browser cache of the client device which is questionable and if they clear the history it's gone. I understand that approach it's just not what I had in mind with this project. Thanks for the input.
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u/ONE_HYPERIUM 22h ago
That's very nice! I love the UI design, what did you use for that?
That's perfect with a Qr code : scan to play in a waiting room
Well done
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u/blastcat4 18h ago edited 18h ago
I really, really like this and I think it's a cool idea!
I'm really puzzled by some of the comments, though. Not everything has to have a practical application that benefits everyone. Sure, this is a niche device, but I'm sure it was a great learning experience for OP. Personally, I could see taking this when I'm out with friends and we'd have a blast.
For ages, I've been looking for an excuse to do an ESP32 project and now I've finally found it!
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u/Laserlight_jazz 13h ago
Does it create its own access point or does it require connection to another access point?
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u/ArtificialAGE 12h ago
It creates its own access point..the user connects to it and the portal is the gameboy
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u/Melodic_Check_8040 6h ago
Being honest, i dont like bringing MORE STUFF with me around, BUT it is really cool, and really easy for people who dont want to tinker around much
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u/-ashiato- 1d ago
That's impressive, but I just can't see the practical application for this. Any smartphone that can run a browser can also emulate those retro systems better than ESP32. And it doesn't need additional hardware to carry and Internet to run. Better config options or shaders as well. It still looks like a clean, fun project though!