It's an amazing day for 8-bit gaming. We're in 2026, and a brand new 8-bit console has just met its crowdfunding target. Yes, while everyone is getting excited for Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen, Clyde Schaffer is celebrating his new GameTank console meeting the $30,000 Crowd Supply target needed to make it a reality, and we couldn't be happier!
We spoke to Clyde on the Retro Dodo Podcast to get to know the man behind the machine. The GameTankisn't an FPGA or emulation-based console - it's original hardware with its own original games, a brand new machine that doesn't borrow from other consoles or replicate other machines. Clyde has been working as a console and games developer on this programme, with gamers around the world jumping at the chance to bring their own 8-bit creations to the GameTank.
And with games like Ganymede taking you straight back to the glory days of the '80s with its pixel-perfect visuals and amazing soundtrack, you can see why Clyde's console has become such a huge hit!
The GameTank dev kit, which is available to purchase on Crowd Supply for $299, comes with the console, a wired controller, a blank cartridge, and a ROM flasher to upload GameTank games written for the GameTank emulator online. There's also a physical copy of the game Accursed Fiend written specifically for the GameTank included too.
I love everything about this machine, and with free shipping in the US and international shipping only coming to $12, there's no reason why you can't get involved with some GameTank action too.
Huge congratulations to Clyde - you did it, and the Retro Gaming community is behind you! Head to Crowd Supply for more details!
