SMALLEST PORTABLE GAME ΒΟΥ And Wi-Fi Hacking Device

In the late 1980s and 1990s, the Game Boy redefined handheld entertainment. With its chunky buttons, monochrome screen, and pocket-sized design, it evolved from a toy into a cultural icon (see Fig. 1). For many, it was the first glimpse into portable electronics, sparking curiosity about gaming and the technology behind it. Decades later, the Game Boy continues to captivate retro gamers, engineers, and hobbyists, inspiring makers and hackers to reinvent its legacy.

- ASHWINI KUMAR SINHA

Building on that legacy, the Smallest Portable Game Boy Retro Console and WiFi Hacking Device (see Fig. 1) unites retro gaming charm with modern embedded technology. Powered by the ESP12F WiFi module (ESP8266), it enables retro-style gaming, WiFi scanning, deauthentication, and WiFi penetration testing. Its compact 4.5cm round PCB packs all essentials—an LDO regulator, capacitors, resistors, a battery connector with power switch, and tactile control buttons.

Display options include an OLED SSD1306 for a classic 90s look or a TFT LCD for modern visuals. Supported by open source libraries, the device allows development of custom games or deployment of prebuilt hacking tools, making it a versatile, retro-inspired, future-ready device for makers and security researchers.

The ESP12F chip delivers the processing power required for running Game Boy games while supporting WiFi hacking, making it ideal for dual-use designs. It provides sufficient I/O, memory, and a compact footprint that aligns with system requirements.

The design also offers flexibility in display options. Users can select an OLED display (over I²C) or a colour display such as the ST7789V round-edge, GC9A01, or any other compatible module. Both types can operate simultaneously, with OLED on I2C and colour displays on SPI.

Power regulation is managed by an LDO regulator, ensuring stable operation across all components.

All components are SMD to maintain a small, compact form factor, with only the buttons using through-hole footprints. Fig. 1 shows the author's prototype, while Fig. 2 compares the market-available Game Boy with the author's design. Required components are listed in the Bill of Materials (Table 1).

Design