The Rise of the Beth Deck: Custom Handheld Gaming and the Return of Classics

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The Rise of the Beth Deck: 3D-Printed Gaming Handhelds for the Future

In the ever-evolving landscape of handheld gaming, the introduction of the Beth Deck signals a fresh wave of innovation, illustrating the remarkable potential of modular design. This 3D-printed handheld gaming console, which can be assembled in as little as 15 minutes, invites gamers and tech enthusiasts alike to explore new horizons in customizability and upgradeability, utilizing the guts of a Framework laptop. The implications of such a device extend far beyond mere convenience; they resonate with the growing desire for personalized gaming experiences that cater to individual needs and preferences.

Beth Deck The future of handheld gaming is modular and customizable.

Unleashing Creativity with Framework’s Modular Design

The gaming handheld market has become a rich tapestry of designs, ranging from sleek and compact devices to bulkier models boasting superior performance. However, most internal components across even the best handheld gaming PCs offer a similar experience. Enter Beth Le, a visionary designer who has taken it upon themselves to blend technology with creativity. By leveraging the 13-inch mainboards from Framework, which are already well-known for their modularity, Beth has created a blueprint that allows for the assembly of a unique gaming handheld.

This innovation not only encourages DIY enthusiasts to dive into the world of handheld gaming but also allows for significant customization. The ability to integrate any of Framework’s 13-inch boards means that users can determine how powerful they want their device to be, unlocking a path to unprecedented performance tailored specifically to personal gaming preferences.

The Impressive Parts List

The project page for the Beth Deck outlines a robust parts list that includes:

6x M3x25mm button head screws
1x Easy SMX M05 Gaming controller
1x Waveshare 8-inch 800p touchscreen
1x USB-C dongle with multiple ports
Framework 13-inch mainboard and battery

While the complete cost amounts to roughly $150, excluding the Framework components and 3D printing materials, the long-term benefits of such a device are manifold. As technology advances, users can easily swap out their mainboard for newer, more powerful versions, significantly extending the life of their handheld and ensuring it remains current with evolving gaming technology.

Performance Considerations: A Balanced Perspective

Despite the impressive capabilities of the Beth Deck, prospective builders should consider the implications of opting for a Framework mainboard. Designed primarily for laptops, these boards lack the specialized configurations that traditional handhelds possess, particularly in terms of heating and power consumption. The absence of fan controls could lead to performance issues during extended gaming sessions, causing concern among those who prioritize stability and efficiency.

Furthermore, pricing for the more powerful 7840U board can be a significant barrier, retailing for around $699. When combined with the costs of the additional parts required, potential gamers may find themselves re-evaluating the cost-effectiveness of such a project.

“The whole thing can be assembled in about 15 minutes and disassembled in less than 2 minutes, with no soldering required.” - Beth Le

Revisiting an All-Time Classic: Red Dead Redemption on Handhelds

As handheld gaming technologies continue to advance, it’s a perfect time to revisit classic titles and experience them anew. One of the most exciting recent developments in the gaming world is the release of Red Dead Redemption on PC, which has been optimized for handheld PCs like the Asus ROG Ally X. This beloved open-world adventure has found a new lease on life, proving that some games are just too magnificent to remain in the shadows of previous hardware.

Initially appearing to suffer from the passage of time, the game has been excellently ported with support for modern technologies, including AMD FSR 3 and Nvidia DLSS enhancements. Offering an optimally smooth performance, this version runs without glitches or long load times, making it ideal for handheld gaming. After all, cozying up in bed with a gripping narrative set in the wild west is a dream for many gamers.

Red Dead Redemption Rediscover the wild west on a handheld device.

A Remarkable Port with Modern Amenities

Gamers have long awaited a proper PC version, and the port executed by Double Eleven has not only fulfilled this anticipation but done so with flair. Players can expect a solid performance, even on entry-level machines, ensuring that the game can reach the vast audience it deserves. While some may lament the lack of graphical upgrades, the intuitive gameplay and engaging storyline stand as a testament to the game’s lasting legacy.

On devices such as the Asus ROG Ally X, we can expect frame rates close to 50 fps on high-quality settings, a remarkable feat considering the age of the title. Modern enhancements have made this classic far more accessible, and the bumpy nostalgia ride of exploring its vast landscapes feels palpable in a more portable format.

Indie Horror: A Spooky Season Preview

As the gaming community gears up for the spooky season, there’s a wealth of indie horror titles capturing attention. Among them, Toilet Spiders promises to be an interesting entry into the genre, featuring a startling blend of humor and terror. Independent developers continue to blaze trails in creativity, with unique experiences that traditional gaming houses often overlook.

Revamping Windows with Bazzite

Moreover, as handheld gaming experiences evolve, the Bazzite Linux distribution brings an exciting opportunity for gamers struggling with the limitations of Windows. Designed for handheld PCs, including the ROG Ally X, Bazzite mimics the simplified interface of SteamOS, allowing users to dive straight into their games without the complexities of traditional desktop navigation.

Bazzite not only streamlines the gaming experience but also delivers a level of stability that Windows devices often lack. It grants access to essential features such as TDP management and controller integration, enhancing the overall user experience and challenging Windows to better adapt to a gaming-centric utility.

Conclusion: The Bright Future of Handheld Gaming

Both the Beth Deck and the enhanced Red Dead Redemption port highlight the incredible potential of handheld gaming devices. With a blend of user-driven customization, a revival of classic gameplay, and independent innovations, the future of portable gaming appears brimming with creativity and excitement. Whether you’re assembling your own device or revisiting past favorites, the world of handheld gaming is ripe for exploration—one uniquely crafted game at a time.

As the gaming industry continues to innovate, the prospects for unique, customizable devices like the Beth Deck remain promising. This burgeoning market of 3D-printed, modular gaming systems could change the way we perceive and enjoy handheld devices, paving the way for a new era of gaming.