he BitBoy One is an upcoming Bitcoin-focused handheld gaming device first teased earlier this year by developer Ordz Games. Bringing together gaming, blockchain functionality, and cryptocurrency capabilities, it seeks to provide a new kind of all-in-one entertainment and finance device for the crypto community.
Hardware Specs and Design
Under the hood, the BitBoy One is powered by a popular retro gaming emulation chip - the Rockchip RK3566. This should allow it to emulate systems like the original Game Boy, Nintendo DS, and older PlayStation games. The device also packs 4GB of RAM, 32GB of internal storage that can be expanded via a 256GB microSD card slot, and a 3,500mAh battery.
In terms of design, the BitBoy One takes clear inspiration from the original Game Boy. It sports a 3.45-inch 640x480 resolution touchscreen, clickable analog sticks, and various action buttons. The overall clamshell shape and button layout aim to feel familiar to retro gamers. Finished in a Bitcoin-themed black and copper color scheme, Ordz Games says the device was engineered to be durable and portable.
Games and Blockchain Functionality
The BitBoy One will come pre-loaded with games from Ordz Games like Ordz City, Ordz Heroes, and Ordz Snake - all reimagined for the blockchain with play-to-earn mechanics. Users can also load other retro titles via emulation from systems like the Game Boy, Game Boy Color, NES, and SNES. Beyond just gaming, the handheld promises additional crypto and DeFi functionality.
It will double as a Bitcoin hardware wallet thanks to apps like XVERSE and Uniswap being accessible via the device. By keeping the BitBoy One powered on, owners can also mine tokens through "decentralized physical infrastructure networks" or DePINs as another passive income stream. Combined with an estimated pricing of around $500, these multi-purpose features aim to set it apart from traditional emulation handhelds.
Release Date and Pre-Orders
Ordz Games has tentatively scheduled the BitBoy One for release sometime in the fourth quarter of 2024. Pre-orders are slated to begin opening this month, with the developer targeting a $500 price point. While more expensive than typical retro handheld emulators, proponents argue the added cryptocurrency, mining, and blockchain-based gaming functionality could help justify the higher costs. Backers are encouraged to wishlist the product and follow any pre-sale announcements from Ordz Games over the coming months.
