Gamepad Zero: A Raspberry Pi Retro Gaming Rig Inside an Original NES Controller
What's cooler than running all your favorite emulated games on a $10 computer? Putting that computer into an original NES controller, of course. Introducing: the Gamepad Zero.
I decided to install a Raspberry Pi Zero W (wireless) into an original Nintendo controller, solder the original controller's circuit board to the Pi's GPIO (general-purpose input/output) pins, and 3D print a new bottom half of the controller housing to store it all neatly. This allows us to play games using the original controller. Pretty neat. :)
New: Be sure to check out my followup to this guide -- the Super Gamepad Zero -- a Raspberry Pi retro gaming rig in an original Super Nintendo controller!
Don't have a 3D printer? No worries! Read on, and I'll explain several options for getting your model printed.
The Gamepad Zero connects directly to your TV or monitor using an HDMI cable and is powered using a normal Micro USB power supply. You can also connect a secondary bluetooth or wired USB controller. With ultimate portability in mind, you can now fit 5000+ retro games in your pocket, bring them over to a buddy's house, and plug right in.
This is a super simple, super fun build. If you're familiar with my PiCart build where I built a similar rig inside an NES cartridge, this might interest you! This build is even easier.
Today I'm going to show you how to make your own. I also created a full video for this build. Check it out below!
Watch the video:
Raspberry Pi Zero W | × | 1 | ||
MicroSD card, 32GB | × | 1 | ||
Mini HDMI to HDMI cable, 10ft | × | 1 | ||
Micro USB to USB cable, 10ft | × | 1 | ||
Soldering Iron | × | 1 | ||
Torx T8 screwdriver | × | 1 | ||
Torx T6 screwdriver | × | 1 | ||
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