Taki Udon Demonstrates FPGA Game Boy Advance SP Prototype That Runs Original Cartridges

Retro developer Taki Udon previews an FPGA-powered clamshell handheld prototype running original Game Boy Advance physical cartridges with USB-C and microSD.

Retro hardware developer Taki Udon has shared new footage of an FPGA-based handheld designed to reproduce the Game Boy Advance experience while supporting original physical cartridges. The project, currently known as FPGBA SP or FPGA SP, received fresh coverage on October 13 after footage appeared showing a working prototype. The device uses a folding design strongly reminiscent of Nintendo's Game Boy Advance SP, complete with a compact clamshell body. The demonstrated prototype features a transparent blue casing and was shown running a Pokémon game from original cartridge hardware. According to its creator, the system accesses compatible Game Boy Advance cartridges directly rather than simply copying their ROM data into a conventional software emulator. The prototype also supports software loaded from SD cards and includes USB-C connectivity. Taki Udon has indicated that a non-clamshell FPGBA model is also being considered, although neither version has received a confirmed commercial release date. The developer hopes to achieve a retail price around $100, but that remains an engineering target rather than a guaranteed selling price. The project is particularly interesting because FPGA technology attempts to reproduce hardware behaviour through configurable digital logic rather than relying entirely on conventional software emulation. This can provide advantages in timing and compatibility, although the accuracy of the finished implementation will require independent testing. The Game Boy Advance SP remains one of Nintendo's most beloved handheld designs, but original units increasingly suffer from ageing batteries, worn components and display limitations. A modern FPGA replacement with cartridge compatibility could therefore appeal to both collectors and everyday players. For now, the hardware remains a promising prototype. At least somebody is trying to make a modern handheld that does not require purchasing another collection of identical-looking Android devices.