Our pick of the best retro games consoles provides plenty of options for anyone feeling the nostalgia for the video games of yore in these days of ray tracing and DLSS. But there’s also always the option of getting hands-on and making your own.
Retro Games Console in an Altoids Tin
We’ve seen some ingenious DIY console designs over the years, and yes, we’ve seen people run Doom to run on pretty much any electronic device. But a Raspberry Pi-powered retro games console small enough to fit in an Altoids mints tin could be just the solution for all those who think the new Nintendo Switch 2 is too big.
The Pi Tin
Dubbed the Pi Tin, the device makes use of a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W and a 2.8-inch TFT display, and it supports emulation for SNES, GBA, PS1, Genesis, Megadrive, and some N64 games.
Components and Assembly
You’ll need two custom PCBs, some 3D printed parts, and a few other components easily available from distributors. The PCBs can be manufactured at a low cost but require advanced soldering skills and ideally a hot plate and hot air station to put them together by hand, but Alley Cat plans to make assembled kits available to purchase.
The gamepad has Alps tactile switches and an elastomer membrane – components used in the Game Boy Advance SP and DSi. There’s a soft power button, and the device can be used while charging. It’s compatible with USB-C and can apparently run for up to five hours on a 2,000mAh battery.
Case Options
If you don’t have an Altoids tin, you can 3D print a clamshell case. Alley Cat note that the 3D printed version is easier to assemble, requiring fewer tools, while also providing more battery capacity. The Altoids tin option requires three neodymium magnets.
Assembly Instructions
Builders will need to place four rear buttons in the housing and secure the components with six screws and tape to hold the battery and foam tape to center the PCB. The full instructions for both versions are available open-source via GitHub.
Conclusion
The Pi Tin is an innovative and compact retro games console that can be built using a Raspberry Pi and a few other components. With its support for multiple emulators and battery life of up to five hours, it’s a great option for those looking for a portable retro gaming experience.
FAQs
Q: What components do I need to build the Pi Tin?
A: You’ll need a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W, two custom PCBs, some 3D printed parts, and a few other components easily available from distributors.
Q: Can I assemble the kit myself?
A: Yes, but it requires advanced soldering skills and ideally a hot plate and hot air station. Alley Cat plans to make assembled kits available to purchase.
Q: How long does the battery last?
A: The device can apparently run for up to five hours on a 2,000mAh battery.
Q: Can I use a different case?
A: Yes, you can 3D print a clamshell case or use an Altoids tin. The 3D printed version is easier to assemble and provides more battery capacity.
