Resources

The project

Modern gaming is incredible—but sometimes, nothing beats the retro experience: no microtransactions, no endless updates, just pure classic gameplay. To recapture that feeling, I built a custom retro gaming station powered by a Raspberry Pi 5, complete with a 3D printed enclosure, retro mechanical keyboard, and a dedicated display.

Hardware

• Raspberry Pi 5 → compact yet powerful enough for smooth retro emulation.
• Retro mechanical keyboard → adds a true ‘90s vibe with tactile feedback.
• Edro display → slim HDMI/USB screen with crisp visuals (thanks to the project sponsor).
• Fasteners & inserts → M2 self-tapping screws, M3 bolts, and heat-set inserts for solid assembly.

CAD & 3D Printing

Designed in Fusion 360 using:

• Pre-made Raspberry Pi 5 STEP file for accuracy.
• Manual caliper measurements for keyboard + display.
• Custom enclosure design arranged like a mini desktop (not a laptop form factor).
  Printed in multiple parts, then joined with super glue, wood filler, sanding, and priming before finishing with a smooth top coat for that polished retro aesthetic.

Assembly

• Monitor mount secured with heat-set inserts + grub screws.
• Keyboard slotted & fixed with side screws (carefully torqued to protect plastic).
• Display mounted via HDMI → micro HDMI and USB-C → USB.
• Raspberry Pi secured using M2 screws.
• Final chassis fastened with M3 bolts.

Software Setup

• Installed Raspberry Pi OS.
• Configured emulation software for classic titles.
• Linked guides + resources (shared in the video description) to get started quickly.

Results

The finished build has a strong retro aesthetic, thanks to the color scheme and tactile keyboard. Gameplay is smooth, responsive, and the whole setup feels like stepping back into the 90s/early 2000s gaming era.

Areas for improvement → cable management (something to refine in v2).