In an era where technology and fashion industries increasingly intersect, designer Gustavo Bonzanini has brought us an astonishing innovation—a pair of AIR SNES retro gaming consoles that can be worn and run in. This unique gaming console is based on a modified Nike Air Max 90 sneaker, created to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the original Super Famicom’s release in Japan.
These sneakers represent a groundbreaking convergence of the gaming and footwear industries, serving as a perfect example of combining classic gaming with modern technology. Users can easily turn them into a functional gaming console by connecting via HDMI or RCA cables. However, instead of cramming the bulky original Super Famicom motherboard into the shoe, Bonzanini opted for the more compact Raspberry Pi Zero W single-board computer, which uses an emulator to achieve the goal of “gaming.” Although the performance of the Raspberry Pi Zero W is not top-tier, it is more than capable of smoothly emulating 16-bit SFC classic games, offering endless fun for nostalgic players.
To better integrate with the sneaker’s design, Bonzanini installed a customized RetroPie emulator UI on the single-board computer, ensuring the interface style matches the sneaker’s appearance. Even more ingeniously, the designer hid the electronic components inside the shoe tongue rather than the sole, preserving the shoe’s comfort and aesthetics. The top of the shoe tongue is also equipped with a Mini HDMI port and a set of RCA ports, allowing users to easily connect to older televisions, as if reliving the gaming days of the 1990s.
Additionally, the latest news reported that these sneakers are compatible with modified original SFC controllers. The controllers are equipped with 8BitDo’s modification kit and connect wirelessly via Bluetooth, enabling players to enjoy an unrestrained gaming experience. Although Bonzanini has no plans to commercialize these “wearable and runnable” sneakers, their creativity and design philosophy undoubtedly offer new inspiration for the technology and fashion industries.
The AIR SNES retro gaming console is more than just a pair of sneakers; it represents a new direction for the crossover industry, serving as a tribute to classic gaming culture. Through its unique design and innovative technology, it allows people to experience the joy of gaming even while on the move. This cross-disciplinary attempt inspires us to consider how elements from different industries can be integrated in the design of future tech products, creating items that are both fun and practical.
In this era of rapid technological advancement, innovation is not only reflected in functional improvements but also in how closely technology can be intertwined with people’s lives and culture. The AIR SNES retro gaming console is a prime example of this. It not only allows people to relive classics but also encourages industry professionals to think about the endless possibilities of technology and life in the future.
