Retroflag GPi CASE FAQ - Common GPi Questions and Answers

The Retroflag GPi Case is available for purchase on Amazon.

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Retroflag GPi CASE

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The Retroflag GPi Case weighs 6.4oz (183g) without a Pi Zero. With a Pi Zero or Zero W, the unit weighs 6.7oz (190g).

The Retroflag GPI Case dimensions are 5.3" x 3.1" x 1.25" (135mm x 81mm x 32mm). It's really close to the original Game Boy, which measures at 5.69" x 3.2" x 0.97" (144mm x 81mm x 24mm).

In short, no. The Retroflag GPi requires a Raspberry Pi Zero or Zero W to work. It's up to you to install RetroPie and load games (referred to as ROMs) onto the Pi Zero. If you're not sure where to start, check out this list of free and legal ROMs then visit our guide on How to Add ROMs to the GPi.

To assemble the GPi, connect the Pi Zero to the IO conversion board, and screw the cartridge together. Put the cartridge in the GPi Case. Place 3 AA batteries in the back of the case. You will need a microSD card with a RetroPie image flashed to it in order to use the GPi. Visit our guide for detailed instructions on How to Set Up and Use the GPi Case.

Be sure to check out our GPi setup video as well:

ROMs can be transferred to the GPi over a network or with the MicroSD card connected to a computer via USB. To transfer ROMs over the network, you will need to enable SSH. Transferring via USB will require a MicroSD to USB adapter.

We have a detailed guide on How to Add ROMs to the GPi that breaks down each process for both Windows and Mac users.

The Retroflag GPi uses 3 AA batteries. We recommend picking up a set of NiMH rechargeable batteries. The GPi also comes with a USB power adapter.

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NiMH rechargeable AA batteries

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The GPi batteries tend to last for several hours. Factors like screen brightness, processor demand, volume, and even battery type can impact the longevity of the battery life.

In our experience, the GPi can typically last for 3-5 hours on fully charged AA batteries.

Yes, you can use rechargeable batteries in the GPi. We recommend using these NiMH rechargeable batteries. The GPi Case requires 3 AA batteries to operate. If you want to play on the go, a set of rechargeable batteries is your most efficient option.

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NiMH rechargeable AA batteries

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No, the Retroflag GPi Case does not come with a Raspberry Pi Zero. You must separately purchase a Raspberry Pi Zero or Raspberry Pi Zero W to use with the GPi Case.

The Retroflag GPi Case requires a Raspberry Pi Zero or a Raspberry Pi Zero W to operate. The case does not come with a Raspberry Pi—be sure to order one when purchasing your case.

I recommend the Raspberry Pi Zero W, which comes with wireless capability. This will make configuring the GPi far easier.

The Retroflag GPi is a handheld system intended for emulating game files known as ROMs. There are many types of ROMs for a range of consoles and computer systems. If you're not sure where to get started, check out our list of free and legal ROMs.

The Retroflag GPi Case can use WiFi if it was assembled with a Raspberry Pi Zero W. WiFi can be used for over the network ROM transfers, OS updates, software installs, and more. If you're using a Raspberry Pi Zero, these features won't be available. Updates will need to be flashed to the GPi via USB.

The GPi relies on a Raspberry Pi Zero for processing power. The $5 computer may be small, but it packs an impressive punch. It easily emulates GameBoy and NES titles. In most cases, you can emulate Super Nintendo ROMs—but you may need to use frame skipping to improve performance.

The Retroflag GPi Case was released in the summer of 2019—with shipments going out by June.

Playing with friends is definitely on the table, you just need a few controllers. Getting set up is easy—check out this guide to learn how to add controllers to the Retroflag GPi.