Engineer develops FPGA-based Game Boy console with native cartridge ripping and 1080p output

Introducing the SGBC Console

Thomas Sanfourche, a French electronics engineer, has developed the SGBC, a new console designed to play Nintendo Game Boy cartridges. The SGBC utilizes a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) to replicate the original Game Boy's hardware logic, allowing for native cartridge playback.

Key Features for Retro Gamers

Beyond playing games, the SGBC includes a built-in function to rip Game Boy cartridge ROMs directly to a microSD card, enabling digital preservation of game collections. It also offers 1080p video output with 16:9 aspect ratio and integer scaling via HDMI, ensuring pixel-perfect display on modern screens. Connectivity options include an SNES controller port and a Game Boy Link port for multiplayer and trading functionalities.

FPGA Implementation Details

The console's core relies on an FPGA chip, which is configured to emulate the Game Boy's CPU and other components. While the specific integrated circuits consolidated into the FPGA have not been detailed, the approach aims to provide an authentic hardware replication experience.

Project Origin and Development

Sanfourche developed the SGBC as his final-year project during his electronics engineering studies in Taiwan. Initially discouraged by professors who questioned the project's utility, he was later motivated to continue and potentially market the device after a conversation with a retro product seller active in the local retro gaming community.