By Dexerto | Created at 2026-08-11 14:27:56 | Updated at 2026-08-11 14:40:37
37 minutes ago
A modder has ripped the motherboard out of a Steam Deck and squeezed it into a custom Game Boy-shaped (and sized) shell to create what they’re calling a “SteamBoy.”
The project came to life when its creator contemplated the possibility of being able to fit the motherboard from Valve’s device into a smaller holder.
As it turns out, the idea of slimming down the Steam Deck proved to be very doable, with the result looking remarkably similar to Nintendo’s classic Game Boy.
SteamBoy squeezes Steam Deck hardware into Game Boy shell
The work-in-progress project was created by Reddit user Good-District1252, who has been documenting their progress.
While the device isn’t quite finished – the in-built screen doesn’t yet work – the SteamBoy already houses a functional LCD Steam Deck motherboard, battery, speakers and its face buttons inside a custom shell designed around the dimensions of Nintendo’s iconic handheld.
The modder also had to rethink the Steam Deck’s cooling system to fit the dramatically smaller form factor. They installed a tiny 30x7mm fan and heatsink inside a custom 3D-printed mount, while undervolting both the CPU and GPU to reduce heat generation.
According to the creator, the setup kept temperatures in the 70s while running Tunic and in the 80s while playing Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.
As for the screen, it has yet to be connected to the Steam Deck motherboard. Footage showing the SteamBoy running uses an external source to drive the display rather than the Deck itself.
Getting everything working together will require the creator to make a custom adapter between the motherboard and display, as well as modify the Steam Deck’s BIOS.
“The screen is not yet connected. It is admittedly still a large task to get it working,” they explained. “If/when I get that working, I’ll let you know my experience!”
While it’s not quite on the scale of making your own custom console, another Nintendo fan earlier revealed their genius idea to turn their physical collection of Wii games into an interactive menu.
