General Questions
What is this project?
+This is a drop-in electronics kit that makes the official LEGO Game Boy set (#72046) fully functional. The kit transforms the LEGO display piece into a truly working, portable Game Boy that can play real Game Boy and Game Boy Color games!
Do I need the LEGO Game Boy set?
+Yes, this kit is specifically designed as an upgrade for the official LEGO Nintendo Game Boy set (#72046). The LEGO set is essential and is not included.
Technical Specifications
What are the specifications?
+| Processor | ESP32-S3 microcontroller |
| Emulator | Retro-Go (Game Boy, GBC, Game & Watch, NES, Sega, DOOM) |
| Display | 2.8" IPS screen with backlight (ILI9341) |
| Battery | Rechargeable lithium battery, ~1.5 hours playtime |
| Charging | USB-C port |
| Storage | MicroSD card (not included) |
| Audio | Built-in speaker with physical volume button |
| Brightness | Adjustable with physical buttons |
| Controls | Fully functional buttons and D-pad |
What games can the kit play?
+The kit can play Game Boy (DMG) and Game Boy Color (GBC) games via ROM files stored on a microSD card.
Does the kit support real Game Boy cartridges?
+No. This version uses emulation with ROM files on an SD card. This keeps the kit simple and preserves the integrity of vintage consoles.
Can the kit do link cable multiplayer?
+No, link cable functionality is not supported.
How long does the battery last?
+Approximately 1.5 hours of gameplay. Battery life may vary depending on screen brightness settings and usage.
How do I charge the kit?
+Charging is done via the USB-C port located above the volume wheel. A standard USB-C cable is all you need.
Installation & Assembly
Is installation difficult?
+No, the kit is designed as a drop-in solution. No soldering required. Installation does require small internal modifications to the LEGO model, such as moving some existing bricks to make room for the electronics.
If you can build LEGO, you can install this kit.
What's included in the kit?
+The kit contains all electronic components and connections you need to convert your LEGO model:
Main PCB with:
- ESP32-S3 microcontroller
- 2.8" IPS display
- Rechargeable lithium battery
- Power switch
- Physical buttons for brightness and volume control
Control PCBs:
- D-pad PCB: For the directional buttons
- A/B PCB: For the A and B action buttons
- Select/Start PCB: For the Select and Start buttons
Connections:
- Various flat cables (flexible ribbon cables) for plug-and-play connections
Choice at order: For the D-pad and A/B buttons, you can choose between tactile click buttons (clear 'click') or membrane buttons (softer, traditional Game Boy feel).
Not included:
- LEGO Game Boy set (#72046)
- MicroSD card
- Game files (ROMs)
- USB-C charging cable
Do I need any tools?
+No, no special tools are required. Everything is plug-and-play. You only need the LEGO manual and the instructions from my kit.
How long does installation take?
+Most users complete the installation in less than 60 minutes.
Ordering & Shipping
When will the kit be available?
+Launch is planned for early 2026.
How much will the kit cost?
+The estimated price will be announced soon.
Where do you ship to?
+- Launch: The first batches will be available in the Netherlands.
- Early 2026: Expansion to the European Union (EU).
- Later: I am exploring possibilities for international shipping outside the EU.
Legal & Ethics
Important Disclaimer
My kit is an independent product. This project is in no way connected, associated, authorized, endorsed by, or officially connected with the LEGO Group or Nintendo Co., Ltd. The trademarks "LEGO", "Nintendo", "Game Boy" and all related names, brands, and images are the property of their respective owners.
Is this legal?
+Yes. The hardware kit itself is completely legal. However:
- Emulators are legal.
- You must own the original games for the ROM files you use.
- I do not provide, sell, or link to copyrighted game files.
- This product is intended for personal use only.
Do you sell ROMs?
+No. I do not provide, sell, or distribute any copyrighted game files. Users are responsible for legally obtaining their own games.
Is this open source?
+The Retro-Go software used by the kit is open source. The hardware/PCB designs of my kit are currently not open source. I am considering releasing design files in the future.
Community
Where can I see the kit in action?
+Check out my YouTube channel for build videos, gameplay demos, and the latest updates!
Can I share my build?
+Absolutely! Tag me on social media - I love seeing your creations!
Is there a community Discord/forum?
+Coming soon.