ClockworkPi GameShell

The ClockworkPi GameShell is a modular, open-source retro handheld launched in 2018, built for fans of classic gaming, DIY projects and creative hacking. Its vertical design and build-it-yourself approach make it as much a learning kit and collector's piece as a gaming device.

Inside sits an Allwinner R16-J SoC with four Cortex-A7 cores at 1.2 GHz, paired with a Mali-400 MP2 GPU at 500 MHz and 1 GB of DDR3 RAM. This hardware handles 8-bit and 16-bit systems with ease and reaches up to SNES FX titles and 3D PlayStation games at 60 FPS. Nintendo 64 and Nintendo DS are playable but can be laggy. The supported library is broad, covering Atari systems, Game Boy, Sega consoles, Neo Geo, MAME, MS-DOS, ScummVM, Pico-8 and many more.

The 2.7-inch TFT screen runs at 320 x 240 (QVGA) in a 4:3 aspect ratio, with about 148 PPI and a 60 Hz refresh rate. This format suits classic games as they were originally designed. There is no glass lens, only a screen protector.

Controls include a cross-style D-pad placed in the upper position and four face buttons, with no analog sticks and no rumble. L1, R1, L2 and R2 shoulder buttons come through the Shelf add-on. Menu, Power and Shift keys are joined by five programmable Lightbar buttons. The plastic body measures 136 x 85 x 24 mm and weighs 195 g, and front-facing dual stereo speakers deliver the sound.

The swappable 1020 mAh BL-5C battery can be replaced quickly, and charging is done over Micro USB. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, Micro HDMI video output and a 3.5mm headphone jack. Games are stored on a microSD card. Volume is adjusted with a button combination and brightness through the menu.

The GameShell runs the Linux-based Clockwork OS. Its open-source nature and modular hardware let you take apart, swap or modify components, which makes it very popular with maker and tinkering communities.

Ideal for: DIY enthusiasts, Linux fans and collectors who want a hands-on, customizable retro handheld focused on classic 8-bit and 16-bit gaming.