Bring classic technology back to life by taking an old Game Boy and transforming it through hands-on electronics exploration and restoration work.
Skill Level: Beginner; no prior experience necessary.
What You'll Be Creating: A completely refurbished and upcycled vintage Game Boy with modern upgrades.
What You'll Be Learning: CNC machining, soldering techniques, component cleaning, and rewiring fundamentals.
What's Included in the Workshop? All materials and tools are provided at no additional cost.
-
A Vintage Game Boy: We supply a Game Boy that requires restoration work and is ready for an upgrade. THE GAME BOY IS INCLUDED IN THE WORKSHOP PRICE.
-
CNC Router Training: Gain hands-on experience operating a CNC router to create space for the new LCD screen installation.
-
Professional Instruction: Receive detailed guidance and step-by-step support from experienced makers throughout the entire process.
What You Can Expect:
These classic Game Boy DMGs have been abandoned for decades and suffer from broken screens and corroded battery contacts, but after completing this workshop, they will be revitalized and ready for another three decades of gaming enjoyment. We begin by completely disassembling your Game Boy down to its core component: the motherboard. As we work to restore electrical flow through these circuits, we will discuss fundamental analog electronics principles, Ohm's Law, and the proper use of multimeters.
You will then learn to operate a CNC router, which we'll use to machine the Game Boy shell so it can accommodate the modern LCD screen you'll be installing inside it.
While the reshaped shells undergo thorough cleaning, reassembly commences with basic electronics soldering as the critical first step in the process. After soldering is complete, you'll methodically screw each component back into place within the shells.
The final result is a stunning restored Game Boy DMG featuring a backlit LCD display that far surpasses the original design. These devices become instant conversation pieces and provide hours of 8-bit retro gaming entertainment with classics including Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon. Plus, you'll have the satisfaction of explaining to everyone that you personally built your Game Boy from scratch.
