Video gaming remains popular and profitable, and you don’t need an expensive handheld PC to enjoy it. With Apple now allowing emulators in the App Store, there are many new games to explore, some of which are tricky to play on a flat screen. While game controllers for iPhones can help, carrying an extra accessory isn’t always convenient. That’s where this clever iPhone accessory comes in: it’s a GameBoy-like controller when needed and a quirky protective case when not.
Some iPhone-compatible game controllers attach to the phone but only work if you hold it sideways like a Nintendo Switch. These controllers can’t stay on the phone permanently, so you need to carry them separately. This can be inconvenient if you suddenly want to play a game, as you’ll need to attach, turn on, and pair the controller. Additionally, this landscape orientation is mainly suited for modern games, not for older ones.
GameBaby addresses this issue by combining innovation with a nod to gaming history. It’s a two-part case that slides onto the top and bottom of the phone. The key feature is that you can flip the bottom half to reveal working buttons laid out like classic handheld consoles, especially inspired by the GameBoy.
The buttons on the GameBaby case cover the lower half of the iPhone screen, providing direct input without the lag of Bluetooth or USB connections. There are no batteries to worry about—just a layer of buttons that offer a more tactile experience than tapping on glass. When you’re finished playing, just slide the case off, flip it, and return to your regular activities.
The GameBaby design is great for emulators that play retro games from old consoles like NES and GameBoy. It works best with the Delta emulator on iOS, and Bitmo Lab offers custom skins to match the button layout. However, it’s only available for the iPhone 15 Pro Max and the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro Max, and comes in a banana yellow and white color scheme.
