A new open-source console hardware project dubbed the GameTank, designed by Clydeware, is preparing for launch. The GameTank is a totally new platform, with its own game library and authentically restrictive hardware.
Unlike most retro consoles that rely on emulation or FPGA re-implementation of older chips, the GameTank uses twin MOS 6502-family CPUs and a purely logic-and-RAM architecture. This means no microcontrollers, no FPGA bitstreams. The main CPU is a WDC W65C02S running at 3.5MHz, while a second W65C02S at 14 MHz handles audio duties.
For graphics, the console uses a 128×128 framebuffer, aided by a hardware-accelerated blitter which copies graphics to the framebuffer every clock cycle at 3.5 MHz. The GameTank also breaks with typical 8-bit memory constraints. Its sprite/graphics RAM is 512 KB, while general-purpose RAM is 32 KB banked in 8 KB sections.
The lingo may be complex, but the ambition here is clear: this isn’t about reproducing classic consoles or playing old cartridge libraries. Instead, GameTank is intended to inspire new games built for this hardware. As our friends at Time Extension put it, it’s “a playground for software and hardware tinkerers alike”.
The system comes with open-source schematics, board files, 3D-print files, part lists, and an SDK based on the CC65 compiler for 6502 code. It uses cartridges (a custom 36-pin 0.1-inch format with 2 MB flash on the standard board) for game storage and outputs composite video via RCA rather than HDMI. There’s also an expansion port, a 26-pin backside exposing GPIO and system signals suitable for hardware hackers.
On the one hand, the technical architecture shows ambition. Using real 6502-family CPUs (used in systems like the Apple II, NES, etc) gives a tangible link to retro hardware while allowing modern flourishes (such as the large graphics RAM and a dedicated blitter).
On the other hand, the choice of composite output and fairly low resolution (128×128) might limit appeal for those expecting “modern” display support. A commenter on Tom’s Hardware wrote: “The decision to use a composite-only output was very poor… it automatically limits the market to people who still own displays that accept composite input.”
Given its open-source hardware/software ethos, this console is aimed less at the mainstream “play all your favorite retro games” crowd and more at homebrew developers, hobbyists, and hardware modders. Time will tell whether it finds a sufficient developer and user base to justify its ambitions.
Source: GameTank via Tom’s Hardware
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This is neat, but it’s pretty inaccessible for the majority of people, even if they wanted to check it out. Why make a console that only people with CRT’s or a Framemeister lying around can use? And even among those people, they would still need to know this thing even exists. They’re targeting a niche of a niche of a niche here. This should have been more like a Pico-8 Fantasy Console situation that you can play natively on PC’s or handhelds, with them then saying “Oh btw, we made design specs for a real one too just in case you have a CRT lying around you can hook it up and play it irl”. Unless this gets an emulator or something at launch, I can’t really see this taking off at all beyond an extremely niche community of a few dozen people.
Do newer TVs not have composite input any more?
Not really, no. It’s not a hard and fast rule, some cheaper models might but I both googled and checked 3 of my 4 household smart TVs because your comment intrigued me.
The cool thing with this from what I’m reading is it’s using parts that are the same or similar to existing retro consoles, and the schematics are openly shared. That means fpga and software emulators won’t be a big obstacle. It’s definitely niche as heck though
There is an emulator for it already for Windows, OsX, Linux, and one that runs natively in browsers. They have a link to it on the website and it’s free for anyone. Check it out: https://gametank.zone
Niche within a niche, but that’s their choice and clearly one with intention. In time world of crap being repackaged endlessly in minute iterations of minor hardware improvements, or premium rebuilds of old tech for the retro hordes, this is a refreshingly carefree take that gatekeeps its playing field by not even putting a gate in. You either know how to get in or you don’t bother 🙂
Ahhh, yes, useless garbage, e-waste, pointless crap…..
God forbid anyone enjoy their life.
Not really, e-waste. If you’re building it for yourself from the ground up. Since they’ve given out the files and the 3D print files. Either you can build your own or buy one as they become available. Which considering the their target demographic will be home brewers and the technically inclined. It’ll be a fun little project for some looking for something new to do.
As for it being mass produced in terms of E-waste I really wouldn’t hold my breath. At least this is a step above other supposed dedicated Retro consoles that are nothing more than vaporware.
Not really, e-waste. If you’re building it for yourself from the ground up. Since they’ve given out the files and the 3D print files. Either you can build your own or buy one as they become available. Which considering the their target demographic will be home brewers and the technically inclined. It’ll be a fun little project for some looking for something new to do.
As for it being mass produced in terms of E-waste I really wouldn’t hold my breath. At least this is a step above other supposed dedicated Retro consoles that are nothing more than vaporware.
I imagine that Brad is a Brad minus the d add the t.
Isn’t… using a CRT the point? I don’t understand the complaint about a retro thing going out of its way to be retro being retro. You could just create a retro styled indie game on PC or modern platforms otherwise, if you want a modern display and hardware.
That’s complaining about the thing being the thing it’s setting out to be in the first place.
I understand your point, but I see this as an interesting project build as an OG retro builder, but beyond buying the parts and 3d printing components and putting it all together, i would then have to hunt down a CRT to make the most of it. I have an RCA to HDMI adapter, but not sure if will for with this lower input resolution? If it does, we’re of to the races.
I understand your point, but I see this as an interesting project build as an OG retro builder, but beyond buying the parts and 3d printing components and putting it all together, i would then have to hunt down a CRT to make the most of it. I have an RCA to HDMI adapter, but not sure if will work for with this lower input resolution? If it does, we’re off to the races.
I would bet it works for any resolution a crt tv would work with
Release Date For Console 8 Bit
How cool it could be if this was an 8-bit with inexpensive hardware that can easily handle 8-bit content. Designed to work on modern displays and have small and large developers on an even playing field, creating brand new physical media.