ROG Xbox Ally User Basically Turns the Handheld into a Game Boy

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A gamer successfully transformed their ROG Xbox Ally handheld into a retro-style Game Boy. While the Ally can handle modern games, this creative modification is proving popular with fans of both Nintendo and Xbox.

The ROG Xbox Ally is a strong competitor to the Steam Deck, offering performance much closer to today’s gaming PCs and Xbox consoles than older handhelds like the original Game Boy. While most players use these powerful devices for current games, one fan decided to modify theirs to play games from the 1990s.

Gamer Turns Their ROG Xbox Ally into a Game Boy

A Reddit user named alanpep recently shared their cool project: turning an ROG Xbox Ally into a functional Game Boy! They combined the Ally with a device called the GB Operator, which lets you play original Game Boy cartridges on your PC. It took a bit of work to fit everything together, especially with the cartridge reader on the back of the Ally, but the final result looks great. They even managed to get a Game Boy Camera working, showing off a classic black-and-white image on the screen in its original 128×112 resolution.

The unique creation has sparked a lot of interest and fun reactions from fans, with many impressed by it. Some wondered why anyone would go to the trouble when it’s simpler to play Game Boy games on devices like the ROG Xbox Ally or by buying a used Game Boy Advance SP. The creator, Alanpep, admitted it wasn’t the most practical approach, but he built it for the challenge and enjoyment. He also particularly liked the authentic experience of physically inserting game cartridges, rather than just launching an emulator.

Game Boy Saves are Disappearing, but the Memories Remain

The original Game Boy, first released in 1990, remains popular with those who grew up playing it. However, being a fan can be frustrating because Game Boy cartridges contain batteries that are needed to save games. These batteries often die over time. Thankfully, a device called the GB Operator can help. It lets you back up the saved data on your cartridges, protecting your progress even if the battery fails, and it works whether you’re using an ROG Xbox Ally or not.

Many dedicated gamers have been repairing the game cartridges by replacing worn-out parts, effectively giving these classic games a new lease on life. With some technical skill and a soldering iron, it’s possible to replace the battery inside the cartridge, restoring the ability to save progress for years to come.

It’s true that not everyone owns old Game Boy games, but revisiting them is now easier than ever. Nintendo is slowly adding classic Game Boy titles to its Nintendo Switch Online service, letting players enjoy these games without needing any old cartridges or extra equipment. While the graphics and gameplay might seem dated, these retro games still offer a lot of fun and are worth trying out if you’re a Nintendo Switch Online subscriber.

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2026-01-31 13:04