Fans of different games creating concepts for special edition consoles is not new. One British graphic artist named XboxPope has become quite popular online for creating next-generation console ideas, such as a Mortal Kombat 11-themed PlayStation 5. However, those concepts usually extend into the future, whereas Tomek Dittrich has taken a more retro approach by creating a Nintendo Game Boy design for CD Projekt Red's upcoming Cyberpunk 2077.
The concept, which has playfully been called the Nightcity Cyber Boy, is a "retro gaming console of the future" according to Dittrich, who posted a short video showcasing the device alongside various related cartridges to Twitter today. Created in the open-source 3D software Blender, the Nightcity Cyber Boy is intricately detailed to look worn down and rusted, much like the technological aesthetic of Cyberpunk 2077, and when the cartridge is loaded up it plays the cinematic of Keanu Reeves' Johnny Silverhand taking off his sunglasses in that classic green filter.
Though not an official product, Dittrich's Game Boy concept fits right in with other tie-in merchandise announced for CD Projekt Red's open-world RPG, such as limited-edition Cyberpunk 2077 Nvidia GeForce graphics cards. The Polish creator, who advertises themselves as a former editor, podcaster, and streamer, certainly seems to have hit on something that speaks to many individuals wondering if they can pre-order the device in his Twitter comments.
The hype for Cyberpunk 2077, in spite of numerous delays and reports about CD Projekt Red's crunch culture, is palpable leading into its release, and the developer has been capitalizing on that with more than just graphics cards. Secretlab is working on Cyberpunk 2077 gaming chairs, and an anime based on the video game and the tabletop games will be coming to Netflix in 2022.
Dittrich is also not the only fan who has been creating their own content related to the highly-anticipated game — nor the only one making retro-style homages. A YouTuber named Bearly Regal created a Cyberpunk 2077 PS1 demake using Media Molecule's Dreams and uploaded a video showcasing the project in January.
Angling a creation toward the Game Boy is certainly unique in the realm of special-edition console concepts, but it makes sense given how popular the handheld device is to this day. Earlier this month, WayForward announced the original Game Boy Color Shantae will be re-released through Limited Run Games, a blessing for those who want to get their hands on the currently rare, expensive cartridge.
Cyberpunk 2077 is set to release November 19 for PC, PS4, and Xbox One, with Stadia, PS5, and Xbox Series X versions to follow.