PicoSystem is a pocket-sized handheld games console, built around Raspberry Pi’s RP2040 chip (that’s the little fella that’s the core of a Raspberry Pi Pico). Build custom games in a cute system featuring a dual-core microcontroller that can be programmed even by beginners – with a color screen and full controller setup. This handsome portable is great for folks who want to write video games or interactive art – and it can be coded in C, MicroPython thanks to Pimoroni’s great tutorials and examples.
Pimoroni has taken the dual-core RP2040 to the component spa and treated it to the full works: a big chunk of flash memory (16 MB!), a vibrant 240×240 IPS TFT screen, and a nice D-pad and buttons picked out by the most particular arcade enthusiasts. There’s also a piezo speaker for discreet retro bleeps and chirps and a rechargeable LiPo battery so you can take your homebrew games on the go.
The finished product looks and feels great – so Pimoroni couldn’t resist going all out on the build quality by adding a custom matte black anodized aluminum case with a handy wrist strap.
The folks behind Pimoroni think RP2040 has tons of potential as an experimental gaming platform, and they’re really looking forward to seeing what folks create.
Features
Powered by RP2040 (Dual Arm Cortex M0+ running at up to 133Mhz with 264kB of SRAM)
16MB of QSPI flash supporting XiP
1.54″ color SPI IPS LCD (240 x 240 pixels)
D-pad and buttons
525mAh LiPo battery (should be good for at least 6 hours of on-time)
Piezo buzzer/speaker
On/off power button
RGB LED
CNC milled aluminum case *swoon*
Wrist strap
Programmable and rechargeable via USB-C (cable not included)
Dimensions: 96.6 x 42.7 x 15.5mm (L x W x H, including buttons)
There are broken-out debug pins on the PCB for if you want to program PicoSystem with an external debugger, but you’ll have to remove the case (with the screws on the back) to get at them.
If you want to have a look at PicoSystem’s insides without having to take yours apart take a look at HackSpace’s dissection report.
Check out ETA Prime’s review for unboxing, teardown, and gameplay footage!
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