How to Convert a USB Flash Drive into a Portable Gaming Console

Many gamers are on the lookout for lightweight and compact retro gaming devices. The Linux-based Raspberry Pi 5 is a popular contender, but there’s an even more streamlined alternative: a portable gaming console created from a simple USB flash drive. While you’ll still need a PC to play games, this approach allows you to travel with less bulk. Here’s how to set it up for about $100.

Items You’ll Need…

• A USB flash drive: I’m using a 512GB SanDisk model, but any size (smaller or larger) will work.
• A compact wireless keyboard: I found an affordable option on Amazon for $10 that includes a compartment for storing your USB flash drive.
• A game controller: Many USB gamers recommend the 8BitDo Pro 2, which connects effortlessly to your PC via USB-C.

Steps to Set Up Your Portable Console…

Step 1: Set Up the OS on Your Flash Drive

To begin, you need to install the open-source operating system, Batocera, onto your USB drive. Follow these instructions:

• Insert your USB flash drive into your computer.
• Visit the Batocera website and download the x64 Windows version of the OS.
• Next, download BalenaEtcher, which you’ll need to transfer the Batocera OS to the USB drive.
• Open BalenaEtcher, select Flash from File, and choose the Batocera file you just downloaded.
• Select your USB flash drive and click Flash to install the OS.
• Once the flashing process is complete, close any pop-up windows that appear.

Step 2: Boot from Your USB Flash Drive

After installing the OS, you need to boot from the USB drive. If the first method doesn’t work, try the second.

Method 1

• Search for recovery options in the Windows start menu and click Restart now under Advanced Startup.
• Select Use a device and then choose UEFI: Removable Device to boot into Batocera. If this device isn’t listed, proceed to Method 2.

Method 2

• Shut down your PC and turn it back on.
• As your PC starts up, press the F12 key to access the BIOS menu.
• Choose UEFI: USB, Partition (your USB flash drive) as the boot device to enter Batocera.

Step 3: Add Games to Batocera

With Batocera now running, it’s time to add your game library. Batocera acts as an emulation frontend, supporting games from a wide variety of older consoles.

You can play games from platforms like PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, and Nintendo 3DS, among others. Some legal, free ROMs come preloaded with the OS, but you might want to add your own collection by following these steps:

• Press F1 in Batocera to access the file manager.
• Locate your ROM files on the computer, or connect any storage device that contains them.
• Highlight the files you wish to transfer, right-click them, and select ROMs from the menu.
• Paste the game files into the correct emulator folder under ROMs.
• Your games should now show up in Batocera. To add artwork, locate the game, press and hold the X button (the third button on your controller), and select Scrape. Ensure you are connected to the internet for this step.

With everything set up, you can now use your USB flash drive on any PC to play classic games. Typically, a mid-range PC will provide a solid experience with around 60 frames per second in most titles.

Important Notes

This entire process can also be done using an SD card or external hard drive instead of a USB flash drive. In my opinion, a USB drive is the most convenient option—perfectly sized without being cumbersome.

To maximize your Batocera experience, I recommend watching a few tutorial videos. These resources will help you navigate video settings and resolution adjustments for better game visuals. A valuable channel for such content is Batocera Nation on YouTube.

That’s all for now! Enjoy your journey into retro gaming!