Using Arduino with gaming
It’s not surprising that the Arduino community is packed to the brim with examples of gaming-related projects. Both activities tend to attract people with a love for problem-solving, technology, and getting immersed in one challenging activity for hours at a time.
The result is that there are tons of fascinating Arduino projects that revolve around video games. If you enjoy sitting back in your favorite gaming chair and plunging into a world of virtual recreation, you’ll love what we’re sharing here — and maybe you’ll find some inspiration for your next project.
Let’s dive into a few of the best examples of Arduino-driven gaming creations.
Arduino project ideas for gamers
A tiny gaming mouse
The right mouse can make a world of difference in the world of PC gaming — there’s a reason high-end gaming mouses (mice?) can sell for eye-watering amounts of money.
If you want the most finely-tuned, customized mouse possible, though, you’ll have to make it yourself. That’s exactly what Science Shack did with this project — an ultra-light gaming mouse made using Arduino.
Driven by an urge to learn just how tiny a mouse could get, Science Shack embarked on his mission. The result? A mouse that is only 18 cubic centimeters in volume and less than 10 grams in weight.
Check out the full video where Science Shack walks through the process, materials, and the end result.
Handheld toggle switches game
When it comes to gaming, more complex isn’t always better. In fact, the old retro-style, ultra-simple games like Space Invaders are still popular decades on.
In keeping with this philosophy, Redditor ToggleBoss decided to create a handheld gaming device operated by nothing more than a small set of toggles. The device features a simple yet satisfying game on a small LED screen.
ToggleBoss’s project was built with just a handful of components — Arduino code running on a NodeMCU, together with a pull-up resistor for switches and an SSD1306 OLED display..
An LED gaming platform for people with special needs
One of the great things about gaming is that it’s an activity that almost anyone can enjoy.
This is now even more true thanks to Alain Mauer, who constructed this LED gaming platform specifically for people with special needs.
Mauer was inspired to create the project to help his son, Scott, who is non-verbal autistic. Later, he realized it could be enjoyed by many more people, including those with movement restrictions.
The game is a simple, LED-based puzzle operated by easy-to-press buttons on the device. There is no time pressure, and the device is extremely robust and durable.
Best of all, the project is designed to be as easy to replicate as possible. It uses affordable and easily obtained components with the code developed using the Arduino IDE 2.
Arcade stacker game
Arcades may be associated with a bygone era, but that doesn’t mean we can’t replicate the same excitement and fun in our own homes.
Reddit user enlightened-creature built this arcade-esque stacker game with a 3D-printed case to capture the arcade vibe from anywhere. It’s built using a simple LED screen and some code and is easy to emulate — as proven here by another Arduino fan.
Exercise bike
In our busy, hustle-filled world, riding a stationary bike at home is one of the most convenient ways to get some exercise — saving the time and effort of hitting a gym or sports club.
But there’s one big problem… it’s boring. Programs like Peloton have evolved to help alleviate the tedium, but they’re expensive and not for everyone.
To solve the problem, Arduino user issaom decided to connect their exercise bike to the PC, transforming it as a controller for various driving simulator games. The pedals are, unsurprisingly, used to move forward, and a steering wheel is attached to the handlebars to change direction.
The project employs several components including an Arduino Nano and an Arduino Micro.
Take your gaming projects to the next level
With Arduino, it’s entirely possible to build projects just like these at home, with nothing more than a few easy-to-find components and some basic code.
The Arduino Project Hub is filled with similar examples, in any category you can think of and for all levels of experience. You can filter by project type and difficulty level, and even search for specific projects — plus there’s a specific section for interactive games. Check it out for inspiration and guidance.