Imagine transforming your beloved Lego Game Boy into a fully functional handheld console. Sounds like a dream, right? But here’s where it gets controversial: the BrickBoy upgrade kit, which promises to do just that, comes with a price tag that’s more than double the cost of the Lego Game Boy itself. And this is the part most people miss—it doesn’t even include the Lego set in the package!
Andrew Liszewski, a seasoned tech reporter with a passion for gadgets since childhood, dives into the details of this intriguing yet pricey innovation. After its recent announcement and subsequent Kickstarter launch, the BrickBoy has sparked both excitement and skepticism among retro gaming enthusiasts. The kit, designed to bring Lego’s buildable Game Boy model to life through emulation, offers three versions—each with its own set of trade-offs.
The Essential Kit, the most affordable option at €129 (roughly $150), allows you to play classic Game Boy titles in grayscale with mono sound. Early backers can snag it for €99 ($115), but even at that price, it’s significantly pricier than Lego’s $60 Game Boy model, which you’ll need to purchase separately. Here’s the kicker: for less money, you could opt for Anbernic’s handheld emulators, which are more versatile and ready to use straight out of the box. Bold question: Is the BrickBoy’s DIY charm worth the premium?
Stepping up, the BrickBoy Gamer Kit adds support for Game Boy Color and Game Boy Advance games, Bluetooth headphone compatibility, and a rechargeable battery—all for €169 ($197). For the ultimate collectors, the Collector’s Edition turns the Lego Game Boy into a functional display piece running demos, priced at €189 ($220). All versions are slated to ship in March 2026, giving you plenty of time to decide if it’s worth the investment.
While the BrickBoy eliminates the need for original game cartridges (unlike Natalie the Nerd’s upgrade kit), its ergonomics and controls remain questionable. And this is where opinions diverge: Is the nostalgia factor enough to justify the cost, or does it fall short compared to more practical alternatives? Let’s spark a debate—would you splurge on the BrickBoy, or do you think it’s overpriced for what it offers? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
