Combine 64 LEDs and an ATMega328 microcontroller with some tactile buttons and what do you get? A tiny gaming console that you can write your own games for, that’s what. There is also the added bonus of assembling the thing and soldering it all together allowing you to brag to your friends and gain those sweet nerd points.
The aptly named SixtyFourPixels is a kit designed by Hotchk155 and has already received several rave reviews from buyers. The kit is based around an 8×8 LED matrix that can display red, green, and orange. A tiny piezo speaker is also included to provide sound for the games. Thanks to the ATMega328’s use in several Arduino boards, you can write your own games in a snap with the Arduino IDE and then program the chip using an FTDI cable.
The microcontroller comes pre-programmed with several classic games including Space Invaders, Snake, Breakout, Four In A Row, and more. This kit is a great way to keep beginners interested in programming and to challenge the creativity of more experienced coders considering the limited resolution of the display. Hotchk155 has all of his games up on GitHub, you should contribute to the library!
