Modder hacks together the smallest SNES emulator with a Raspberry Pi Zero, clay and superglue

A modder who regularly posts projects on the YouTube channel lyberty5 has created the world’s smallest Super Nintendo Entertainment System‬‬ emulator. The heart of the device is the Raspberry Pi Zero, on which a software emulator is loaded. This is connected to a USB hub meant for tablets. The set up is housed inside a plastic case, with a NES model built around the case using clay. Modelling paint, superglue and sandpaper was used to finish off the mod.

The build is fairly elaborate to replicate, although the instructions for the hardware are available in the video. A case of similar dimensions, can potentially be made with the use of 3D printers. Although a 3D printed version would look more accurate and cleanly cut, the clay based model adds a little playfulness to the mod. The final build takes up less space than one of the controllers from the original NES system, according to a report in Motherboard.

Nintendo had earlier this year announced plans to release a device called the Nintendo Classic Edition . The announcement followed on the heels of the success of Pokémon GO. NES titles would be pre-loaded into a tiny box called the Nintendo Classic Edition. A new cartridge cannot be installed. The modder lyberty5 has made a better, and smaller version of this announced device, although the Nintendo Classic Edition has an HDMI connector.

The mod by lyberty5 does not allow the insertion of actual cartridges, but unlike the Nintendo Classic Edition, new games can be loaded on to the console. While there has been some hype around the possible unveiling of the Nintendo NX in the next few days over the course of the Tokyo Game Show , the device is currently expected to land next year , with new titles including a Zelda game.