Eli Lipsitz has introduced Game Bub, an open-source handheld console built around a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) designed for accurate retro game emulation. Unlike software emulation, the FPGA hardware recreates the original consoles' logic, offering cycle-accurate performance. The device features a 3.5-inch LCD, familiar gamepad controls, and a MicroSD card slot for ROMs. All design files, including the hardware schematics, FPGA code, and 3D-printable case designs, are available on GitHub, enabling others to build, modify, and improve the project. While currently focused on Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance titles, future expansion to other systems is possible.
Eli Lipsitz has unveiled Game Bub, an open-source handheld gaming console designed for retro game emulation using a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). The project aims to deliver a high-fidelity, low-latency retro gaming experience by leveraging the power of FPGA hardware to accurately replicate the original hardware of classic gaming systems. Unlike software emulation, which can introduce inaccuracies and lag, FPGA emulation aims to mimic the original hardware's behavior as closely as possible, leading to a more authentic gaming experience.
Game Bub is built around a Lattice Ice40 UP5K FPGA and features a 2.2-inch IPS LCD screen with a resolution of 240x320 pixels. Control inputs include a directional pad, four face buttons, and two shoulder buttons, providing a familiar interface for retro gamers. The console includes a MicroSD card slot for storing game ROMs and an onboard flash memory chip for storing the FPGA bitstream, which configures the FPGA for specific gaming systems. It also includes a USB-C port for charging and connectivity.
The project is fully open-source, with both the hardware design files and the FPGA code publicly available. This allows for community contributions and modifications, encouraging users to customize the console and potentially add support for more gaming systems. Lipsitz highlights the portability of the device and its compact design, making it a convenient option for retro gaming on the go. The current implementation supports a variety of systems, including the Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and various Sega Master System/Game Gear titles. Lipsitz further details the development process, explaining the challenges and decisions made during the project's creation, such as the selection of specific components and the design of the printed circuit board (PCB). He emphasizes the learning process involved in designing hardware and software for FPGA-based systems. The post also includes photographs and videos showcasing the Game Bub in action, demonstrating its gameplay capabilities.
Summary of Comments ( 42 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43027335
Hacker News users discussed the Game Bub, an open-source FPGA retro emulation handheld. Several commenters expressed excitement about the project, praising its open-source nature and the potential for customization. Some questioned the choice of using an iCE40 FPGA, considering its limited resources compared to other options, particularly for more demanding systems like the PlayStation. The project's reliance on a soft CPU core for some systems also drew some skepticism about performance. Others raised concerns about battery life and the overall cost, but many remained optimistic about the Game Bub's potential, especially for simpler 8-bit and 16-bit systems. There was interest in seeing future updates and improvements to the project.
The Hacker News post for "Show HN: Game Bub – open-source FPGA retro emulation handheld" generated a fair amount of discussion, with many commenters expressing enthusiasm for the project and its open-source nature.
Several commenters praised the creator for choosing an FPGA approach, highlighting its accuracy compared to software emulation. They appreciated the ability to accurately replicate the original hardware's quirks and timing, which is often difficult to achieve with software. This focus on accuracy resonated with users who value authentic retro gaming experiences.
Some commenters delved into technical details, discussing the choice of the Lattice MachXO2 FPGA and its capabilities. Others inquired about specific features, such as save state support, the potential for adding more cores to emulate a wider range of systems, and the possibility of using different FPGA boards. The creator actively engaged with these comments, providing answers and insights into the project's design and future plans.
A few commenters shared their own experiences with FPGA-based retro gaming projects, offering suggestions and resources. There was a brief discussion about the complexities of FPGA development and the learning curve involved, with some acknowledging the steep but rewarding nature of the process.
Several expressed interest in purchasing a pre-built version of the Game Bub, demonstrating a potential market for the device. The discussion also touched on the cost of components and the challenges of sourcing them, particularly in the current electronics market.
Overall, the comments reflected a positive reception to the Game Bub project, with many praising its open-source nature, the choice of FPGA for accurate emulation, and the creator's willingness to engage with the community. The discussion highlighted the growing interest in FPGA-based retro gaming and the potential for open-source hardware projects in this space.