# Engineers Build Fully Functional Nine-Foot Tall Game Boy Color A massive, playable replica brings childhood nostalgia to life through custom engineering and design. - **Source:** [Popular Science](https://www.popsci.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-11 - **Topic:** [technology](https://brifing.si/c/technology) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/70d213d0-1e6f-4214-8fcd-52dfc63c1080 ## Engineering a Giant Console Engineers Paige Powell and Nick Alvarez constructed a nine-foot-tall, 300-pound replica of the Nintendo Game Boy Color. The project required over 1,500 hours of labor within a makerspace. Unlike previous attempts, this massive device is fully functional, capable of playing classic titles like Pokémon and Donkey Kong using custom-written software. ## Professional Backgrounds Converge The duo met at a Davis, California makerspace while pursuing independent projects. Powell is a veteran prop designer known for her work with Meow Wolf, while Alvarez brings seven years of experience as an aerospace engineering manager. Their combined expertise in mechanical design and PCB circuitry proved essential for this ambitious build. ## Surpassing Previous World Records The team sought to improve upon a seven-foot record-holding model that lacked technical depth. While the previous version relied on plywood construction, Powell and Alvarez prioritized structural integrity and scale accuracy. They utilized CNC mills and 3D printers to ensure the device mirrored the original 1998 handheld’s geometry and aesthetic. ## Technical Challenges and Fabrication Creating the console’s complex, sloped back shell proved to be the most difficult physical task. Powell used CNC machines to shape the plywood body, though the process required significant manual carpentry for precision. Meanwhile, Alvarez engineered a custom display using HUB75 LED panels to achieve a pixel-perfect scale of the original. ## Software and Emulation Mechanics The giant console runs games via a specialized emulator rather than physical cartridges. Alvarez integrated a microcontroller to map the oversized buttons to the software. A unique feature automatically cycles through different games each time the device is powered on, allowing for a seamless experience for users interacting with the massive interface. ## Public Interaction and Durability The console debuted at events like Open Sauce and the Bay Area Maker Fair. Despite being subjected to physical abuse from children, including punching and kicking the buttons, the device remained fully operational. This durability serves as a testament to the high-quality engineering and robust materials used during the construction process. ## Empowering Women in Engineering For co-creator Paige Powell, the project serves a deeper purpose beyond technical achievement. She aims to challenge the male-dominated engineering landscape by showcasing women as primary builders. Powell hopes her visibility as a lead creator will inspire young girls to pursue hands-on fabrication and take credit for their own technical work. ## Future of the Goliath The creators are currently seeking a permanent home for their creation, ideally within a museum setting. While they hope to recoup some of their personal financial investment, they remain wary of private collectors. They prefer the device to remain accessible to the public, continuing to inspire future generations of makers and engineers. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.popsci.com/technology/giant-game-boy-color/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._