In an exciting twist for fans of the Playdate, the quirky indie game console, an unofficial mod is transforming it into an interactive robot pet. Playdate, known for its unique design and playful games, had previously garnered attention with its distinctive crank controller.
However, the latest innovation comes from a creative and enterprising character artist, Guillaume Loquin, who has taken matters into his own hands after Panic, the creators of Playdate, paused development on the official charging dock.
Loquin, a character artist at Ubisoft, developed an open-source kit called PlayBot that turns the Playdate console into a charming, responsive robot pet. The transformation requires a few basic components, including two wheels, a motor, a microcontroller, and a 3D-printed casing.
The PlayBot kit taps into the Playdate’s built-in accelerometer, microphone, and sensors, allowing it to interact with its environment in a way that adds an entirely new layer of fun to the game console.
For those who have the technical know-how, building PlayBot from the open-source kit is entirely possible. However, those without the skills to assemble the mod may soon find ready-made versions available for purchase on platforms like Etsy, as Loquin has sparked interest among makers and hobbyists alike.
The PlayBot mod isn’t just a gimmick — it brings a new dimension to the Playdate, turning the game console into an engaging, functional, and playful desktop companion.
In Loquin’s demonstration video, viewers can see the PlayBot react to different stimuli, showcasing its interactive features. The robot pet responds to a wake-up tap, a simple interaction that makes the Playdate come to life in a new way. It can navigate around corners, spin around in response to the Playdate’s crank, and avoid obstacles by steering itself away from the edge of a desk.
While it may not be performing tricks like playing fetch or doing wheelies, the PlayBot still offers a delightful and engaging experience for anyone who interacts with it.
One of the most notable features of PlayBot is its ability to interact with its surroundings and perform basic tasks that make it feel more like a real pet. It can scoot around your desk, carefully avoiding obstacles to prevent falling off the edge, making it both fun to watch and practical for those who enjoy having a bit of light-hearted entertainment at their desk.
The PlayBot is designed to be low-maintenance and practical. It’s powered by a rechargeable battery, and Loquin estimates that the PlayBot offers around 45 minutes of playtime on a single charge. This makes it ideal for quick, fun interactions, whether you’re taking a break from work or just looking for a little entertainment.
Though Playdate’s official charging dock development has been paused, the PlayBot mod offers a new and creative way for Playdate owners to interact with their device. By integrating the Playdate’s existing sensors and features, Loquin has created something both functional and fun, expanding the possibilities for what was originally a simple handheld gaming console.
Whether you’re a Playdate owner or simply someone who enjoys quirky gadgets, PlayBot is a charming addition that will likely continue to inspire other developers and makers to explore the untapped potential of the Playdate. With a little imagination and some technical know-how, the Playdate is now more than just a game console — it’s a companion that’s sure to brighten up any desk.
