Ultimate Gamification: Crafting a Mechanical Keyboard with Retro Game Boy Components

Highlights

An innovative DIY enthusiast has successfully redesigned a mechanical keyboard by utilizing components sourced from a Game Boy console, resulting in a remarkable synthesis of the iconic gadget's aesthetics and features and the exceptional ergonomics of a finely-crafted mechanical keyboard.

The TypeBoy keyboard showcases a split design and utilizes a specially designed cartridge named TypePak, which houses a keyboard controller PCB. It serves as a compelling testament to the creativity of DIY enthusiasts who not only pay tribute to vintage gaming consoles but also strive to enhance and advance existing technologies.

A gamer has ingeniously crafted a personalized mechanical keyboard using components from a Game Boy console. This skilled tech reviewer and DIY enthusiast successfully merged the captivating visuals and practicality of the iconic Nintendo Game Boy with the ergonomic excellence of a meticulously designed mechanical keyboard.

The Game Boy has long been a favorite among gaming enthusiasts and tech aficionados who relish in modifying and creating their own unique projects. Throughout the years, countless individuals have showcased their boundless innovation and creativity using this legendary video game console.

A Pokemon fan recently created SNES cartridges that enable gamers to enjoy popular Game Boy titles on their SNES consoles. Additionally, another fan designed special Game Boy Advance consoles in Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire themes. Now, joining the "customverse" is the TypeBoy, a creation by tech reviewer, DIYer, and Game Boy enthusiast FlatFootFox. The TypeBoy not only pays homage to the Game Boy in its name, but also in its design and functionality.

TheStuChef recently shared a Reddit post showcasing the TypeBoy by FlatFootFox. This mechanical wireless keyboard is split in two and features the iconic purple and gray color scheme of the classic Game Boy. Inspired by his work on the Sanni Open Source Cartridge Reader and tinkering with the Ergogen keyboard layout generator, FlatFootFox conceived the idea for the TypeBoy.

The TypeBoy is the result of combining two ideas, resulting in a unique gaming keyboard. Each half of the keyboard requires a custom-designed cartridge called the TypePak, also created by FlatFootFox. The TypePak features a custom keyboard controller PCB with excellent Bluetooth connectivity, a monochrome display, and a built-in LiPo battery. Users can simply plug in the cartridges, power up the keyboard, and connect it to their devices. The TypeBoy is a new addition to the wide range of gaming-themed custom mechanical keyboards.

The TypePak concept has the potential to allow gamers to have different keyboard setups that use the same keyboard controller. Not only does the TypeBoy have advanced circuitry, but its split design and cartridge functionality also provide portability, comfort, and an overall improved gaming experience. While many gamers strive to find the best mechanical gaming keyboards to enhance their skills, it's refreshing to see DIYers creating impressive modifications and builds that pay homage to classic consoles like the Game Boy.

Source: FlatFootFox