The Thumby Color, the successor to the original Thumby keychain-sized gaming console, is now available on Kickstarter. This updated version takes the form of a Nintendo Game Boy Advance and is powered by the more advanced RP2350 SoC, the same chip found in the $5 Raspberry Pi Pico 2. The Thumby Color features a 128 x 128 16-bit color display, offering more than five times the resolution of its predecessor. Additionally, it comes equipped with fully functional shoulder buttons and a rumble motor for a more immersive gaming experience.
The original Thumby launched around three years ago with an RP2040 chip, as used in the Raspberry Pi Pico. The concept proved so popular that it surpassed its initial funding goal with nearly a month remaining in its campaign. The Thumby Color appears to be following in its predecessor’s footsteps, having already exceeded 200% of its funding goal with 32 days left.
For those interested in programming, the Thumby Color is designed to be user-friendly, utilizing MicroPython for its games. The company behind the console also offers a free browser-based editor that simplifies the process of programming, uploading, and even playing games, making it easy to experiment with the Thumby Color.
Like the Raspberry Pi Pico 2, the Thumby Color lacks wireless connectivity, making it primarily a single-player console. However, two Thumby Colors can be connected via a USB-C to USB-C cable, allowing for direct head-to-head play, reminiscent of the original Link cable used with Nintendo handhelds.
The Thumby Color is available starting at $49 for the base pledge, which includes the tiny console in a purple case. A $100 pledge offers two Thumby Colors and a USB-C to USB-C cable for multiplayer gaming.
As with all crowdfunding projects, it’s important to remember that backing a project does not guarantee that you’ll receive a finished product. Supporting a campaign is an investment in the project’s success rather than a purchase of a retail item.
