A console slightly bigger than a coin: here is the Arduboy Mini, the console based on Arduino

It’s not for big fingers, that’s for sure, the new console born from the mind of Kevin Bates and based on Arduino. It is a miniaturization of the original Arduboyalso by the same developer, which encloses a complete console in a very small space and supported by a continuously updated list of over 300 8-bit open source games.

The project takes shape on a small SoC based on a processor ATmega32u4 at 16 MHz on which a minuscule is installed 128 x 64 pixel monochrome OLED display. Frontally presents only 4 directional buttons and two action buttons that allow you to interact with the software.

Obviously it is not proposed as an alternative to the more common and powerful portable consoles – although it has been a while since we have seen anything new excluding Switch Lite – more like a nice gadget to always carry with you aimed above all at development and hacking enthusiasts.

Indeed, in reality it is the console that spurs you to explore the world of programming. Indeed, this will be delivered without a battery or speaker. The solder contacts are simply labeled to install the further components yourself. Alternatively, it is still possible to feed it through the USB Type-C port down.

Currently, the small device is available at Kickstarters at the price of $29. The goal was to raise $10,000 in funding, but it was easily surpassed within 13 hours of the campaign opening. However, deliveries are only expected from June 2023, in short, a few days after its launch, the Arduboy Mini is already a success.