Taiwan Gamer Completes 5-Year Retro Console Dream
After five years of dedicated work, a Taiwanese gaming enthusiast has realised their Famicom CRT project dream. These custom 'Oldtendo' units blend original consoles with authentic CRT displays.
Famicom CRT project dreams have become reality for one dedicated Taiwanese retro gaming enthusiast, who has spent five years perfecting an extraordinary tribute to Nintendo's classic consoles.
The remarkable 'Oldtendo' setup features four custom-built CRT television units seamlessly integrated with original Famicom and Super Famicom hardware, creating the kind of display stations that would have graced gaming shops during the 8-bit and 16-bit eras.
Credit: Yamafuda/X
According to social media posts documenting the journey, the creator remained steadfast in their vision to use authentic cathode-ray tube displays rather than modern LCD alternatives. This commitment to authenticity forms what they describe as a 'love letter' to retro gaming's golden age. Each unit maintains consistent dimensions and styling, creating a visually cohesive display that evokes genuine nostalgia for anyone who frequented arcades or electronics stores in the late 80s and early 90s.
A Taiwanese retro-gaming fan spent 5 years building a setup of 4 real CRT TVs fused with classic consoles — so anyone can play for free at exhibitions.
— Yamafuda - 山札 (@Yamafuda) November 1, 2025
Everyone told him to use LCDs. He refused.
It’s not for sale — it’s a love letter to retro gaming culture. 💾❤️#Oldtendo pic.twitter.com/BBPCncPodb
The consoles feature both wireless and wired controller options, while cartridge slots positioned at the front allow players to appreciate the classic game artwork during gameplay sessions. Furthermore, this attention to detail extends to the overall user experience, recreating the tactile satisfaction of inserting cartridges that defined childhood gaming memories for millions worldwide.
Currently, only four of these custom console-television hybrids exist, and none are available for commercial purchase. Instead, the creator has made them accessible for free public play at gaming exhibitions, serving as an interactive museum piece celebrating retro gaming culture. The project stands as a testament to preservation efforts that keep classic gaming hardware alive for new generations to experience.
Looking ahead, the creator has expressed hope that if the complex manufacturing process can be streamlined, these unique retro gaming stations might eventually become more widely available.
This remarkable achievement demonstrates how passion projects can become cultural touchstones, ensuring that the distinctive glow of CRT gaming continues to captivate audiences decades after these consoles first revolutionised home entertainment.
