A hardware modder has created a custom Game Boy Advance cartridge that turns the handheld system into a controller for the Nintendo Switch console. Gamers have created a variety of unique and interesting hardware modifications for the Nintendo Switch, including custom Switch docks and controllers based on other properties to modify completely different electronics to make it function with the console. Some of the more interesting hardware modifications are the ones that make other hardware act as a controller for the Switch.

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This custom cartridge was created by insideGadgets, a hardware modification group that specializes in gaming mods and prototypes for Nintendo systems, even selling some of these modified parts online. One of the latest products showcased on the group's social media was a new GBA Bluetooth TX cart. This allows players to connect their GBA as a Bluetooth controller to any gaming system they'd like, including the Nintendo Switch. A demonstration video was posted on Twitter that showed the cartridge being inserted into the GBA, where it was able to communicate with the Switch in order to play Super Mario Bros. Wonder.

GBA Bluetooth TX Cart Working with Nintendo Switch

The post notes that the custom cartridge makes the GBA console behave like an 8BitDo Zero 2 wireless controller, which means it is compatible with a gamer's PC, tablet, or smartphone as well. InsideGadgets also notes that gamers could pre-register and get an email notification about when the device will be available in stock, but note that due to the device's complexity, it will be a bit pricier than other modified devices available on the website, costing $92 USD according to the store page.

When asked if the cartridge would work with backwards compatible models of the Nintendo DS system, the account said yes, though there isn't any X/Y button support for it. Not only that, the Nintendo DS would also need a homebrew application in order to access the GBA cartridge itself. Regardless, this seems like a fun mod for enthusiasts of both the Nintendo Switch and Game Boy Advance.

nintendo-switch-game-console-handheld
Brand
Nintendo
Original Release Date
March 3, 2017

A late addition to the eighth console generation, the Nintendo Switch is a hybrid platform that can be experienced as a home or portable system. Launching with The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, the platform has amassed a wide selection of triple-A and indie titles. Since the console's debut, Nintendo has released two other models: the Switch Lite and OLED. 

Hardware Versions
Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite, Nintendo Switch OLED Model
Original MSRP (USD)
Switch: $299; Lite: $199.99; OLED: $349.99
Weight
Switch: 0.88 LBS; Lite: 0.61 LBS; OLED: 0.93 LBS