A DIY enthusiast known as Michael on Hackaday.io has created the Epic Minimalist Entertainment System (EMES), a handheld gaming console that’s about the size of a coin. This miniature model features a tiny screen, four buttons for control, and even uses swappable cartridges for game variety. Instead of placing the processing power within the console itself, he cleverly placed it within each cartridge. This approach allows for a more compact and modular design, making the EMES one of the smallest handheld consoles ever created.
The EMES uses an ATTiny10 microcontroller in each cartridge, providing the necessary processing power to run simple games. While the specs are modest (think 8MHz clock speed and 1KB of program/data flash), the console is capable of running classic games like Pong and Snake. Despite its small size, the EMES offers a surprisingly complete gaming experience. The four buttons provide adequate controls for navigating menus and playing games, while the small screen, though limited in resolution, is still capable of displaying basic graphics.
Epic Minimalist Entertainment System demonstration
It’s a far cry from the likes of the Steam Deck, ROG Ally, or even the Nintendo Game Boy, but it’s a neat little project that takes minimalism to the extreme.
The ups and downs
Its novelty and small size make it a standout gadget for collectors and those who appreciate unique technology. For DIY enthusiasts, building the EMES can be a rewarding. Additionally, its focus on classic games and its portability make it a great option for those who enjoy retro gaming and want to play on the go.
However, the EMES also has limitations. Due to its small size and limited hardware, it is only capable of running simple games. More complex games may be too demanding for the EMES’s processing power and small screen. Additionally, the effective playtime of the EMES may be relatively short, as it is powered by a small battery.
