Sipeed Unveils FPGA-Based Handheld Game Console

Sipeed, a hardware company known for its innovative computers and development boards featuring RISC-V processors, is now venturing into the gaming sector with the announcement of a new project: a tiny, FPGA-based handheld game console. This upcoming device distinguishes itself by utilizing an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) instead of the conventional processors from x86, ARM, or RISC-V, making it a unique entry into the handheld gaming market.

The console is designed to emulate classic gaming hardware more faithfully by using an FPGA, which can be reprogrammed to mimic different instruction set architectures. This technology could allow games to run as if they were on the original hardware, avoiding the performance and compatibility issues often associated with software emulation. This approach has been seen in devices like the Analogue Pocket, which also employs FPGAs for emulation.

Sipeed’s upcoming handheld will feature a TangPrimer 25K core board equipped with a Gowin Arora 5 GW5A-LV25MG121 FPGA. Despite not being the top of the line in terms of performance, Sipeed suggests the device will be capable of emulating games from consoles such as the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance.

The hardware specifications for the prototype include a 2-inch LCD display with a resolution of 480 x 360 pixels, 32MB or 64MB of SDRAM, and a 1,500 mAh battery. The device is expected to be quite compact, with dimensions as small as 100 x 50 x 15mm. Sipeed is currently engaging with its community on social media to gather input on potential designs for the console.

Additionally, Sipeed has hinted at the development of a larger model with a screen size ranging from 3.5 to 4.5 inches, catering to users who prefer a bigger display.

As of now, there are no details available regarding the pricing or the release date of the Sipeed FPGA-based handheld game console. However, given that the TangPrimer 25K core board is at the heart of the device, it is anticipated that the final product will be affordably priced.

Source: Liliputing.