# 32blit

> Embedded retro gaming SDK and handheld console

**Wikidata**: [Q114568853](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q114568853)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/32blit

## Summary
32blit is an open-source handheld gaming console and software development kit (SDK) designed for retro-inspired gaming. It combines open hardware and open-source software, allowing users to develop and play games on a compact, battery-powered device with a 320x240 IPS display.

## Key Facts
- **Instance of**: Handheld game console model and software development kit
- **Manufacturer**: Pimoroni
- **Announcement date**: May 14, 2019
- **Funding scheme**: Crowdfunding (Kickstarter)
- **CPUs**: STM32H750VB (480 MHz), RP2040, RP2350
- **Display**: 320x240 IPS panel with twisted nematic field effect (TN) technology
- **Storage**: 1 MB static RAM, 32 MB flash memory
- **Power source**: Rechargeable battery (1200 mAh)
- **Dimensions**: 150 mm (width) × 65 mm (height)
- **Weight**: 250 grams
- **Connectivity**: USB 2.0 Micro-B receptacle
- **Programming languages**: C, C++, Lua
- **License**: MIT License
- **Followed by**: Pimoroni PicoSystem

## FAQs
### Q: What is 32blit, and who makes it?
A: 32blit is an open-source handheld gaming console and SDK developed by Pimoroni. It was announced on May 14, 2019, and funded through crowdfunding.

### Q: What hardware specifications does 32blit have?
A: 32blit features CPUs like STM32H750VB (480 MHz), RP2040, and RP2350, a 320x240 IPS display, 1 MB static RAM, 32 MB flash memory, and a 1200 mAh rechargeable battery.

### Q: Can I develop games for 32blit?
A: Yes, 32blit includes an SDK with support for C, C++, and Lua, allowing users to create and play retro-style games.

### Q: How is 32blit different from other handheld consoles?
A: 32blit is unique as an open-source, modifiable device with a focus on retro gaming and developer-friendly features, such as its SDK and open hardware design.

### Q: What is the price and availability of 32blit?
A: The 32blit development kit was priced at £118.80 and is available through Pimoroni’s official store.

## Why It Matters
32blit stands out in the gaming hardware landscape by combining open-source principles with retro gaming aesthetics. Its open hardware and SDK make it accessible for developers to create and modify games, fostering a community-driven approach to gaming. The device’s compact size, battery-powered operation, and retro-inspired design cater to enthusiasts of classic gaming experiences. By leveraging crowdfunding and community support, 32blit demonstrates the potential for open-source hardware to bridge the gap between hobbyists and professional developers. Its legacy is further extended by the Pimoroni PicoSystem, which builds on its design philosophy.

## Notable For
- **Open-source design**: Combines open hardware and open-source software, allowing full modifiability.
- **Retro gaming focus**: Designed for classic gaming experiences with a 320x240 IPS display.
- **Developer-friendly SDK**: Supports C, C++, and Lua, making it accessible for game development.
- **Crowdfunded success**: Raised significant funding through Kickstarter, proving market demand.
- **Predecessor to PicoSystem**: Influenced Pimoroni’s later handheld, the PicoSystem, with its open-source ethos.

## Body
### Overview
32blit is an open-source handheld gaming console and SDK developed by Pimoroni. Launched in 2019 through crowdfunding, it was designed to offer a retro-inspired gaming experience with open hardware and software. The device features a 320x240 IPS display, multiple CPUs (STM32H750VB, RP2040, RP2350), and supports C, C++, and Lua for game development.

### Hardware Specifications
- **Display**: 320x240 IPS panel with twisted nematic field effect (TN) technology.
- **Storage**: 1 MB static RAM and 32 MB flash memory.
- **Power**: 1200 mAh rechargeable battery.
- **Dimensions**: 150 mm (width) × 65 mm (height), weighing 250 grams.
- **Connectivity**: USB 2.0 Micro-B receptacle.

### Software and Development
- **SDK**: Includes support for C, C++, and Lua, allowing users to develop and play games.
- **Open-source**: Licensed under the MIT License, enabling full modifiability.
- **Documentation**: Official SDK documentation is available on GitHub.

### Release and Reception
- **Announcement**: May 14, 2019.
- **Funding**: Successfully crowdfunded through Kickstarter, raising £93,480.
- **Price**: £118.80 for the development kit.
- **Community**: Supported by a Discord server (ID: 585101360362684422) and active developer community.

### Legacy
- **Follow-up**: Inspired the Pimoroni PicoSystem, which builds on its open-source principles.
- **Impact**: Demonstrated the viability of open-source hardware in gaming, attracting developers and enthusiasts.

## References

1. [Source](https://shop.pimoroni.com/products/32blit-dev-kit?variant=32337896865875)
2. [Source](https://web.archive.org/web/20220120110829/https://32blit.com/)
3. [Release 0.1.13. 2021](https://github.com/32blit/32blit-sdk/releases/tag/v0.1.13)
4. [Release 0.2.0. 2021](https://github.com/32blit/32blit-sdk/releases/tag/v0.2.0)
5. [Release 0.2.1. 2021](https://github.com/32blit/32blit-sdk/releases/tag/v0.2.1)
6. [Release 0.2.2. 2022](https://github.com/32blit/32blit-sdk/releases/tag/v0.2.2)
7. [Release 0.2.3. 2022](https://github.com/32blit/32blit-sdk/releases/tag/v0.2.3)
8. [Release 0.3.0. 2023](https://github.com/32blit/32blit-sdk/releases/tag/v0.3.0)
9. [Release 0.3.1. 2024](https://github.com/32blit/32blit-sdk/releases/tag/v0.3.1)
10. [Release 0.3.2. 2024](https://github.com/32blit/32blit-sdk/releases/tag/v0.3.2)
11. [Release 0.3.3. 2024](https://github.com/32blit/32blit-sdk/releases/tag/v0.3.3)
12. [Source](https://www.stuff.tv/hot-stuff/gaming/32blit-open-source-retro-style-handheld-wants-help-you-code-your-first-game/)
13. [Source](https://www.tomshardware.com/news/pimoroni-teases-rp2040-powered-picosystem-gaming-device)
14. [Source](https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/pimoroni/32blit-retro-inspired-handheld-with-open-source-fi/posts/2507657)
15. [Source](https://discord.com/channels/585101360362684422)