Steam Deck and Game Boy Combined: The SteamBoy Was Created
The Steam Deck modding community has previously pushed the boundaries with storage and RAM upgrades, but this time things have gone a step further. A Reddit user named PhyFawkes disassembled the core components of Valve’s handheld computer and placed them in a vertical, rather small case reminiscent of the original Game Boy. Called SteamBoy, the device is currently more of a working prototype than a completed handheld console.
Does SteamBoy Actually Work?
SteamBoy uses actual Steam Deck components. The modder took the motherboard, battery, speakers, and button hardware from Valve’s device and placed them in the smaller case. A different, smaller panel was chosen because the Steam Deck’s own screen wouldn’t fit the size. A smaller fan was also needed to accommodate the cooling system within the case.
The biggest problem with the project right now is the screen. The new panel isn’t displaying an image yet because the Steam Deck hardware isn’t recognizing it properly. The developer believes the problem can be solved by preparing a special adapter and making some changes to the BIOS. Therefore, it’s not currently possible to use the device in a fully portable way.
However, the SteamBoy has been shown to actually power on. In the shared demonstration, the device operates by displaying an image to a television instead of its own screen. In other words, the core hardware of the Steam Deck is functioning inside a Game Boy-like case. If the screen problem is overcome, the project could become a much more useful and interesting portable system.
Of course, there are some question marks about fitting the Steam Deck hardware into such a small case. Due to the smaller fan, overheating and battery life could be serious issues, especially with demanding games. The SteamBoy isn’t a finished product intended for daily use yet. Nevertheless, even managing to run the full-size Steam Deck hardware in a Game Boy-sized case is enough to explain why the project has attracted so much attention.
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