ESP32-S3 is frequently used to emulate devices from the past, such as the Game Boy and Game Gear. In the project by HVT Lab and Huy Vector, the microcontroller is mounted on an open frame made of soldered brass rather than inside an enclosed case, with 2 mm transparent acrylic used to secure the buttons. The software is said to be based on Retro-Go, while various open-source projects ranging from NES to IBM PC can run on ESP32-S3.
Why it matters
This project shows that ESP32-S3 can be treated not only as an invisible component operating inside a ready-made device, but also as an emulation platform whose hardware choices are directly visible. The brass frame and acrylic button mounts reflect an approach in which the construction method is as much a part of the project as its functionality. The Retro-Go foundation and open-source software supporting systems from different eras make the project relevant both to those working on microcontroller-based emulation and to those interested in physical design. However, the available information does not detail the limitations this design, which does not use an enclosed case, may have in terms of everyday use and durability; this is also the main question left open when assessing the project.
Background
ESP32 is not a new name in the FikirPilot archive: over the past 90 days, we have published 2 news articles mentioning it, the most recent dated September 8, 2026.