YouTuber and DIYer Sudomod has just revealed mintyPi 2.0, a gaming device housed in an Altoids tin. The tiny handheld is powered by Raspberry Pi and even includes WiFi. When mintyPi first debuted it looked raw. The electrical innards were exposed and the screen hung loosely as it was not supported by a hinge.
MintyPi 2.0 fixed those aesthetic issues with 3D-printed parts. The hinge and colored housing on the second version were all printed from a computer. Sound comes from a USB sound card to ensure that the tiny device makes as much (clear and crisp) noise as possible. MintyPi 2.0 obviously can't play the latest and greatest games due to hardware limitations. However, it is able to play retro classics like "Donkey Kong Country" just fine.
Minty Retro Gaming Handhelds
MintyPi 2.0 Lets You Play 'Donkey Kong Country' in an Altoids Tin
Trend Themes
1. Retro Gaming Handhelds - The increasing demand for retro gaming handhelds opens up opportunities to create more innovative and aesthetically pleasing designs.
2. DIY Gaming Devices - The rise of DIY gaming devices such as mintyPi 2.0 presents an opportunity for businesses to create customizable gaming hardware kits for enthusiasts.
3. Miniaturization of Gaming Hardware - As seen in projects like mintyPi 2.0, miniaturization of gaming hardware has the potential to transform the gaming industry by making devices more portable and accessible.
Industry Implications
1. Electronics Manufacturing - Companies in electronics manufacturing can explore the demand for retro gaming hardware by producing novel, cutting-edge products.
2. 3D Printing - The increasing popularity of 3D printing presents an opportunity to manufacture aesthetically pleasing and functional gaming devices like mintyPi 2.0 for a niche market.
3. Gaming Industry - As DIY retro gaming devices grow in popularity, the gaming industry can embrace customization and personalization by offering hardware kits and customized devices for enthusiasts.