Kitronik ZIP96 Retro Gamer for Raspberry Pi Pico (5347)
Build your own retro game console and learn programming in a fun way! The Kitronik ZIP96 Retro Gamer is a programmable handheld game console designed for the Raspberry Pi Pico that combines classic retro gaming, electronics and programming. It is excellent for learning programming, classroom use and electronics hobbyists.
The ZIP96 contains 96 individually addressable RGB LEDs that form a 12 × 8 LED matrix. You can program your own games, animations and visual effects for the display. A built-in buzzer, vibration motor and six buttons make the gaming experience versatile.
Features and benefits
- 96 RGB-LED display: The 12 × 8 LED matrix enables programming colorful games, animations and graphics.
- Six control buttons: Four directional buttons and two action buttons provide traditional retro game controls.
- Built-in buzzer: Add beeps and sound effects to games.
- Vibration motor: Enables haptic feedback for game events.
- MicroPython programming: Kitronik’s MicroPython library and example code make developing your own games easier.
- Battery powered: Three AA battery holders allow gaming without an external power supply.
- Ergonomic design: The battery compartments on the underside also serve as grips.
- Expandability: Available GPIO connections enable building your own electronics projects.
- Pre-assembled: The PCB is delivered assembled, so you can start by adding the Raspberry Pi Pico, batteries and code.
Learn programming by playing
The Kitronik ZIP96 Retro Gamer offers a hands-on way to get familiar with Python programming, game logic and electronics. You can design your own retro games, program LED animations and use buttons, sound and vibration in game mechanics.
The device is suitable for classrooms, coding clubs and independent hobby use. Kitronik also provides teaching materials and ready MicroPython examples to make starting projects easier.
Technical specifications
- Manufacturer: Kitronik
- Product code: 5347
- Product model: ZIP96 Retro Gamer
- Compatibility: Raspberry Pi Pico
- Display: 96 addressable RGB LEDs
- Display layout: 12 × 8 LED matrix
- Buttons: 6 pcs (4 directional buttons and 2 action buttons)
- Sound: Integrated piezo buzzer
- Haptic feedback: Integrated vibration motor
- Power supply: 3 × AA batteries
- Operating voltage (LEDs and buzzer): 3.5–5.5 V
- GPIO connections: GP1, GP11, ADC1, ADC2 and GP18–GP21
- Pico connector: Low-profile 20-pin header strips
- Programming: MicroPython
- Dimensions: 141 × 60 mm
Getting started
The ZIP96 Retro Gamer is delivered pre-assembled. To get started you need a Raspberry Pi Pico microcontroller with soldered pin headers and three AA batteries.
Attach the Pico to the designated headers, install the batteries and upload your chosen MicroPython program. You can use Kitronik’s example code or start your own game project.
Note: Raspberry Pi Pico and AA batteries are not included and must be purchased separately.
Why choose the Kitronik ZIP96 Retro Gamer?
The Kitronik ZIP96 Retro Gamer combines gaming and learning into an inspiring package. It offers the opportunity to explore programming concretely and see the immediate effects of your code on the LED display, sounds and vibration feedback.
Design, program and play your own retro games with the Raspberry Pi Pico!
