Discover TinyNES: A Miniature Nintendo Entertainment System with Real NES Chips
Have you ever dreamed of owning an original Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), but in a smaller and cooler form? Enter TinyNES, a remarkable creation that packs the authentic experience of the classic 8-bit NES into a tiny, compact design. This isn't just another cheap clone; TinyNES uses genuine chips from an original NES, providing an authentic gaming experience that fans have cherished for over 40 years.
TinyNES is designed with a keen eye for detail, featuring neatly socketed components that make it perfect for teardown and review. However, this mini marvel comes with its own set of challenges. To incorporate the ultra-rare RGB variants of real Nintendo chips, the designers added some unique sockets to the board, which require a special jumper board installation to function properly. If you're looking to improve video quality for capturing game footage, be prepared for a challenge, as the required RGB chips are extremely rare and not readily available, even on eBay.
The RGB chips compatible with TinyNES include all variants of RP2C03, RC2C03, and RC2C05. While RP2C04 chips are technically supported, they produce distorted output, so it's best to avoid them. Obtaining these chips often involves desoldering them from arcade machines like the Nintendo VS. System, PlayChoice-10, or the rare Japan-exclusive Famicom Titler console from Sharp.
Despite these challenges, TinyNES offers a unique and high-quality retro gaming experience. It's a pricey investment, but for collectors and enthusiasts, it’s a fascinating piece of hardware. In this video, we explore the TinyNES from top to bottom, including a detailed guide on installing the jumper board inside the console.
Creating this video was no easy task, with numerous challenges along the way. But we've persevered to bring you a comprehensive look at this extraordinary mini NES console. Can you guess which year each part was recorded? Watch the full video and find out!
Meet SparkYo, the premier small YouTube content creator specializing in 8-bit gaming and retro tech. SparkYo brings old electronics back to life or deconstructs them for your viewing pleasure, all while sharing his passion for everything from Super Mario to classic Nintendo systems. Whether it's a restoration project or a deep dive into retro gaming, SparkYo’s channel is a must-visit for anyone interested in vintage gaming.
Discover Thumby: The World's Smallest Gaming Console and STEM Marvel
Is Thumby the world's smallest working video game console? This tiny device is revolutionizing the gaming world, offering a unique blend of retro charm and modern programming capabilities. Not just a novelty item, Thumby is a fully functional console and an educational tool for aspiring Python programmers.
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the captivating world of Thumby, the miniature Game Boy created by TinyCircuits in Akron, Ohio. This tiny gaming marvel features a 72x40 monochrome OLED display, six functional buttons (including a D-pad), and supports two-player gaming with a Link cable (sold separately). Powered by a Raspberry Pi Pico RP2040 processor with 264 KB of SRAM, Thumby boasts more power than the original Game Boy—all within a compact size of just 30.5 x 17.8 x 7.6 mm.
Why Thumby is a Must-Have for Retro Gaming Enthusiasts
Thumby's compact size and nostalgic design make it a must-have for retro gaming enthusiasts. Despite its tiny dimensions, it packs a surprising punch with its retro-inspired OLED display. However, the low-resolution screen can be a double-edged sword, offering a charming vintage feel while also presenting challenges in distinguishing game elements, especially in fast-paced games.
Programming with Thumby: A STEM Experience
Thumby isn't just about gaming; it's also an excellent STEM tool for learning programming. The console allows users to create and upload games using Python, a popular language known for its simplicity and readability. While programming in a web browser isn't the most efficient for developing highly optimized games, it's perfect for beginners looking to dip their toes into game development. The experience of coding for Thumby offers valuable lessons in programming logic and problem-solving.
Explore Thumby's Game Library
Thumby comes pre-loaded with a variety of games, offering something for every type of gamer. Here's a closer look at some of the titles available:
Tiny Annelid (Snake): Relive the classic snake game in a whole new, miniaturized way.
Tinysaur Run: A tiny version of the Chrome Dino game, perfect for quick bursts of fun.
Royalty Fris Space Debris: A retro-inspired Asteroids game with a unique twist.
Thumby Tennis: A miniaturized Pong that challenges your reflexes.
Thumbgeon: A dungeon crawler that takes full advantage of Thumby's capabilities.
Tiny Blocks (Tetris): The beloved puzzle game, scaled down for Thumby's screen.
Thoom: An impressive port of DOOM, showcasing Thumby's gaming potential.
Brick'd (Breakout): A classic brick-breaking game reimagined for Thumby.
Journey 3Dg (Sonic 3D Blast): A tech demo that explores Thumby's 3D capabilities.
Mine Sweeper: A classic puzzle game that's perfect for Thumby's screen.
Micro 2048: The addictive number puzzle game in a portable format.
V Poker (5 Card Stud): A simple poker game that's surprisingly engaging.
Challenges and Quirks of Thumby
While Thumby offers a nostalgic and educational experience, it's not without its challenges. The small screen size and limited grayscale display can make gameplay difficult, especially for games that require quick reflexes or detailed visuals. Additionally, the console's tiny buttons may be uncomfortable for extended play sessions, particularly for those with larger hands. Despite these quirks, Thumby provides a unique and enjoyable gaming experience, especially for those who appreciate retro games and programming.
Thumby as a STEM Educational Tool
Beyond its gaming capabilities, Thumby serves as a valuable educational tool. Its programmability in Python makes it an ideal platform for teaching and learning programming concepts. Whether you're a seasoned programmer or a beginner, Thumby offers an engaging way to explore game design and development. Its compact size and simplicity make it a manageable and rewarding project for learners of all ages.
Final Thoughts: Is Thumby Worth It?
So, is Thumby worth the investment? The answer depends on your interests. If you're looking for a serious gaming device, Thumby's limitations may be frustrating. However, if you enjoy retro gaming, love unique gadgets, or want a fun way to learn programming, Thumby is a fantastic addition to your collection. Its unique blend of nostalgia, novelty, and educational value makes it a standout product in the world of miniature consoles.
For a more detailed look at Thumby's features and a comparison with the original Game Boy, check out SparkYo's full video review. And don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more tech reviews and retro gaming content!
About SparkYo
SparkYo is a leading YouTube content creator specializing in the restoration and modification of electronic gadgets. Known for his passion for 8-bit games and retro consoles, SparkYo's channel is a hub for tech enthusiasts and nostalgia seekers. From streaming events from his treehouse to exploring the latest tech innovations, SparkYo brings a unique and engaging perspective to the world of gaming and electronics.
Explore the full potential of Thumby, the world's smallest gaming console, in this in-depth guide. Whether you're a retro gaming fan, a tech enthusiast, or a programming newbie, Thumby offers a unique and educational experience that's hard to beat.
