GameBoy Emulator

This is a concept for a GameBoy emulator. It would be used on a mobile device. There is a big throwback to retro nowadays, and wanted to help young users experience it with a modern twist.

Gameboy is rendered fully to avoid any scaling issues. Some changes have been made to make it more accessible.

• D-pad is flat to provide an easier viewing angle
• On/Off switch is highlighted to help users turn device on/off
• Labels (on/off & phones) are given more contrast

While pressing, thumbs get in the way, and without any tactile feedback, users may not know if button has been pressed or not.

I found that the pressed state is not enough feedback for users, so subtle animations have been created for each button.

• D-pad has been given arrows
• Start/Select and A/B have been given red outlines

I wanted to create an experience in which users felt they had a Gameboy in their hands, on their phone.

To do this, I created 3 main states during the startup phase.

• Ejected - the console cannot be started and users need to tap the insert button or tap/drag the cartridge
• Inserted - In this state, users can turn on the power button and can start playing
• Ready - The title screen appears and the game is ready to be played

Version 1.0 - Goals (Current)

• Digitized Gameboy
• Digitized cartridges
• Cartridge use
• Button use
• On / off use
• Title animation
• Button animations
• User friendly

Version 2.0 - Goals

• Game selection
• Face plate selection
• Top menu
• Game animation
• Iterations from V1
• Screen dimmer