This modder shrunk a Steam Deck down to Game Boy size

The Steam Boy is a remarkable custom creation born from a simple question posed by Reddit user PhyFawkes: could a Steam Deck be shrunk down to the size of a Game Boy? The answer, as it turns out, is a resounding yes. The resulting device is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the modding community.

At its core, the Steam Boy is essentially a Steam Deck shrunk down to fit inside a Game Boy-like chassis. This has been achieved through the use of a 3D-printed PETG shell, which cleverly accommodates the miniature motherboard, APU heatsink, fans, sizable battery, and internal speakers of the original Steam Deck. Ribbon cables have been used to connect various components, while the controls have been reduced to a D-pad, four traditional face buttons, two system buttons, a thumbstick, and a touchpad.

Despite the significant reduction in size, the Steam Boy still manages to retain a substantial amount of the original hardware within its compact frame. The components are stacked Tetris-style within the device, resulting in a bulkier appearance compared to the original Steam Deck, but still small enough to fit comfortably in a large jacket pocket.

One notable aspect of the Steam Boy is the presence of a 1200 x 1080 90 Hz OLED screen, which is a perfect fit for the Game Boy-inspired design. However, this feature is currently on hold pending further modifications, including an adapter board and a BIOS modification. Additionally, the Steam Boy currently features only one trigger, but PhyFawkes has indicated that another one is planned, given its strategic position on the motherboard.

The Steam Boy represents an exciting development in the world of Steam Machine mods, demonstrating the endless possibilities that arise when enthusiasts take an existing product and reimagine it for new applications. As the project continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how the Steam Boy develops and what other wild creations might emerge from this passionate community.