The Pico-Pal is the latest retro-inspired handheld console to join the scene, and it’s wearing its Game Boy Color influence on its sleeve right down to the transparent shell. But under that nostalgic exterior is a blend of modern components that make this tiny device stand out in the crowded world of throwback portables.
Pico-Pal brings a 1:1 screen and a Raspberry Pi chip combo
Unlike some pricier FPGA-powered devices like the ModRetro Chromatic or Funnyplaying’s kits, the Pico-Pal sticks to more accessible hardware. It runs on a Raspberry Pi RP2350B microcontroller, paired with an Espressif ESP32 that adds Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and 4 MB of onboard flash memory.
At the front, you’ll find a 2.6-inch 320×320 IPS screen with a 1:1 aspect ratio, an unusual but charming choice that sets it apart from the usual widescreen handhelds.
Designed for Game Boy Color emulation
Developer Peter Khouly has made it clear: the Pico-Pal isn’t trying to emulate everything under the sun. It’s optimized for Game Boy Color titles, making it more of a focused, dedicated experience than a catch-all emulator box.
That purpose-built approach is part of its charm. It doesn’t overreach, and that helps keep the form factor compact, the UI clean, and the battery life solid.
Pico-Pal highlights:
- Raspberry Pi RP2350B + Espressif ESP32
- 2.6″ IPS display (320×320, 1:1)
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support
- USB-C charging (5V/1.45A)
- 1,500 mAh Li-Po battery
- Transparent Game Boy Color-style case
- Optimized for GBC emulation
Launching soon via Crowd Supply
While no firm release date has been set, the Pico-Pal is officially listed as “launching soon” on Crowd Supply, with additional info and device photos already available. Those curious about the dev process can also follow Khouly’s detailed build log on his WordPress site.
For anyone looking to replay GBC classics on hardware that nails both the form and the function, the Pico-Pal might just hit that perfect sweet spot between nostalgia and simplicity.
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