Repurpose Raspberry Pi as the Thinnest Retro Gaming Handheld Device
The GamerCard, a pioneering creation by designer Grant Sinclair, is challenging the status quo of handheld gaming devices with its compact design, innovative control scheme, and versatile capabilities.
### Design
At just 128 mm × 88 mm × 6.5 mm and weighing approximately 100 grams, the GamerCard boasts an ultra-thin and pocket-sized form factor, making it over 80% smaller and lighter than typical handheld consoles. The device's unique PCB sandwich construction, featuring stacked PCBs and an integrated Zytel layer, eliminates the need for a traditional plastic casing, resulting in an ultra-light, ultra-tough device with reduced waste and no external printing—graphics and track traces are etched directly onto the PCB. The device also houses a high-resolution 4-inch square IPS display with a 254 PPI density within this super-slim form factor.
### Control Scheme
Unlike traditional handhelds with physical buttons and joysticks, the GamerCard uses two large silicone control pads on the front and two smaller silicone pads on the back acting as shoulder buttons. These pads also feature antibacterial coating. The device includes two additional buttons (Select and Start) on the upper right side and a power button on the upper left side, simplifying the user interface while maintaining essential controls. Its unconventional control layout is designed for tactile feedback and space efficiency within the gift-card-sized frame.
### Versatility
Powered by a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W, the GamerCard can run thousands of retro games through emulation and comes preloaded with two multi-level action games optimized for it. Thanks to its Raspberry Pi foundation, it doubles as a battery-powered Linux terminal that can connect to external USB keyboards and mice, supporting broader uses beyond gaming. The device includes multiple ports unusual for handheld consoles: HDMI output, USB ports for peripherals, a Qwiic port for expansion, and USB-C for charging. This array allows it to function as a Raspberry Pi-powered computer, enhancing its maker/tinkerer appeal and educational potential.
The GamerCard integrates Bluetooth 4.2 and Wi-Fi for connectivity, stereo front-facing speakers, a 1600mAh rechargeable battery, and micro LEDs indicating battery status.
### Comparison with Traditional Handhelds
| Feature | GamerCard | Traditional Handhelds | |------------------|-------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------| | **Size & Weight**| Gift-card sized, ~6.5 mm thick, 100g | Larger, bulkier designs, plastic casings | | **Construction** | PCB sandwich, no casing, etched graphics | Plastic or metal casing, printed graphics | | **Controls** | Silicone pads front & back, minimal buttons | Physical buttons, D-pad, joysticks | | **Processor** | Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W (quad-core 1 GHz, 512MB RAM) | Custom or dedicated handheld gaming CPUs | | **Versatility** | Emulation gaming + Linux terminal + expansion ports | Primarily gaming-focused, limited expansion | | **Ports** | HDMI, USB, Qwiic, USB-C charging | Typically USB-C or proprietary charging + headphone jack | | **Connectivity** | Bluetooth 4.2, Wi-Fi | Varies, often Wi-Fi and Bluetooth |
### Summary
The GamerCard redefines handheld gaming devices by delivering a super-slim, modular, and environmentally friendly design combined with a unique control layout and versatile Raspberry Pi-powered computing capabilities not typically found in conventional handheld consoles. The device comes preloaded with arcade games and is designed for enthusiasts, collectors, and those who appreciate innovative design over pure gaming performance. However, the GamerCard's battery life can't match larger devices with more substantial power cells, and the square screen isn't ideal for all classic games designed for different aspect ratios. The device supports emulators like RetroPie, Recalbox, and Lakka, enabling it to play thousands of games from classic systems. The display is protected by sapphire glass and is sandwiched between layers in a patented PCB construction. When connected to peripherals, the GamerCard can transform into a complete Raspberry Pi-powered computer. The GamerCard is available at a £125 ($170) price point, positioning it as more of a premium curiosity than a mainstream gaming device.
[1] GamerCard Official Website: https://gamercard.io/ [2] TechRadar: https://www.techradar.com/news/gamercard-raspberry-pi-powered-handheld-console-is-the-size-of-a-retail-gift-card [3] Engadget: https://www.engadget.com/gamercard-raspberry-pi-handheld-console-128815143.html [4] Hackster.io: https://www.hackster.io/news/gamercard-raspberry-pi-handheld-console-is-the-size-of-a-retail-gift-card-62c28b25e629 [5] Tom's Hardware: https://www.tomshardware.com/news/gamercard-raspberry-pi-handheld-console,40544.html
Events such as gaming tournaments and technology conventions might showcase the innovative GamerCard, a handheld device that integrates smart-home-devices, gadgets, and cutting-edge technology, given its unique design, unconventional control scheme, and the versatility of its Raspberry Pi-powered capabilities. With this device, users can participate in gaming events using a pocket-sized console, explore the world of Linux terminals, and even connect external USB devices, allowing for a broader range of activities beyond conventional handheld gaming.
