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How To Build Your Own Retro Gaming Console With A Raspberry Pi
By GABRIEL MOSS
To build your own retro gaming console, consider using the Raspberry Pi 4, a device that is credit card thin and starts at an MSRP of $35, drastically less expensive than older devices like Sega Genesis. The entire process of getting your Pi ready for gaming will cost a bit more, give or take around $100 to $200, depending on which parts you choose.
Here’s what you'll want to purchase: a Raspberry Pi 4 case, which can be found on Amazon, and at least a 2.5A (or higher) power supply, if not included with the case. You’ll also need an HDMI cable to connect the Pi to your display, a micro SD card that's big enough to store your emulation software and games, a USB keyboard, and a USB controller.
Now, to get RetroPie loaded up and running on your device, download the software onto the SD card using another system with internet access and a micro SD card reader. If you're using a Windows PC or a Mac, you can easily download and save the most recent RetroPie disk image to your desktop and then write it to your SD card from there.
Once your micro SD card is mounted with RetroPie, plug it into your fully assembled Raspberry Pi 4 and begin the setup process in the software menu that appears. Make sure your controller is nearby, as you'll need it during the first boot process. If you're using a USB controller, make sure it's connected physically, then follow the instructions on-screen — happing gaming!