Imagine transforming your beloved Lego Game Boy into a fully functional handheld console. Sounds like a retro gamer’s dream, right? But here’s where it gets controversial: the BrickBoy upgrade kit, which promises to bring your Lego creation to life, costs more than twice as much as the Lego Game Boy itself. Yes, you read that right—and this is the part most people miss—the BrickBoy doesn’t even include the Lego set, which retails for $60. So, why the hefty price tag?
Andrew Liszewski, a seasoned tech reporter with a lifelong passion for electronics, dives into the details. After its recent announcement and Kickstarter launch, the BrickBoy kit has sparked both excitement and skepticism. The Essential Kit, the most affordable option, is priced at €129 (around $150), but early backers can snag it for €99 ($115). Even at the discounted rate, it’s significantly pricier than Anbernic’s ready-to-play handheld emulators, which offer more features out of the box. Is the BrickBoy’s DIY charm worth the premium?
For those craving more functionality, the BrickBoy Gamer Kit supports Game Boy Color and Advance titles, Bluetooth headphones, and includes a rechargeable battery—all for €169 ($197). The Collector’s Edition, priced at €189 ($220), turns your Lego Game Boy into a displayable demo runner. But with shipping not expected until March 2026, the wait is as long as the price is high. And this is the part most people miss: while the BrickBoy relies on ROMs, eliminating the need for original game cartridges, its ergonomics and controls have raised eyebrows. Is it a collector’s dream or a practical gamer’s nightmare?
Compared to Natalie the Nerd’s upgrade kit, which requires sourcing original Nintendo chips for authenticity, the BrickBoy offers a more accessible but pricier alternative. But here’s the burning question: In a market flooded with affordable, plug-and-play emulators, does the BrickBoy justify its cost? Or is it a niche product for die-hard Lego and retro gaming enthusiasts? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—do you think the BrickBoy is a game-changer or a pricey gimmick?
