As the use of optical media in major game consoles declines, Emmet developed their own game console that works with CDs. The system uses classic CDs adhering to the Orange Book standard; rather than running modern AAA games, it focuses on content that is decades old. The single-board computer with an Intel N150 runs Batocera, a Linux distribution adapted for x86-based retro gaming. The wireless game controllers were built with BLE-enabled ESP32-S3s. The CDs do more than simply launch games; they also contain the ROM file and a shell script that places it in the correct emulator library. One of the project’s highlights is the custom CD labels and case artwork prepared by Emmet. The 3D-printed case further reinforces the console’s appearance. This project shows that optical media is attracting renewed interest for reasons such as nostalgia and convenient storage.
Why it matters
The project combines access to old games with a physical archival system rather than leaving it solely to emulation software. The ROM file and launch script added to the disc also define which emulator should be used and how the content should be used, simplifying the setup process. Instead of allowing digital files to get lost among folders and compatibility issues, this approach keeps the game and the information needed to run it on the same medium; it therefore appeals not only to retro gaming enthusiasts but also to those who want to build their own system. However, the limitation of the setup is that CD-based content remains restricted to older, x86-compatible titles rather than modern games requiring substantial hardware; the project’s value therefore lies less in offering an alternative to current consoles than in organizing past games in a personal, physical format.
Background
DIY is not a new name in the FikirPilot archive: we have published 5 news stories mentioning the name in the past 90 days; the latest was dated 30 September 2026.