What is a GBbook?

GBbook is a custom physical Game Boy cartridge that lets you read complete books directly on your Game Boy. Choose a classic work, select a title from our catalog, or send your own compatible text and turn the console into a pocket-sized reading device. Each cartridge contains one complete book and comes in a cassette-style case with custom artwork, designed and assembled by NOW IN TIME.

Compatible with original Nintendo Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, Game Boy Advance SP, Game Boy Pocket, Game Boy Light, Game Boy Player on Game Cube, and recent third-party consoles that can read these cartridges, like Analogue Pocket. Not compatible with Nintendo Game Boy DMG, DS, DSi, 3DS, or later Nintendo systems.

How does a Game Boy book cartridge work?

The book appears on the screen in small portions of text, one screen at a time. You read using the buttons, with a steady and natural rhythm, without scrolling or jumping around. It’s a different kind of reading experience, slower and more intentional, where each page becomes a small pause. As a person with ADHD, I find that reading in this format helps me stay inside the text without my attention drifting.

What comes with your GBbook cartridge?

You receive a fully working Game Boy cartridge with one complete book already loaded and ready to read. Each cartridge contains a single book. The cartridge comes in a cassette-style box, with custom graphics and instructions, designed as a collectible object. An original gift for people who love books, retro gaming, and objects that feel slightly out of time.

Game Boy compatibility

Compatible with original Nintendo Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, Game Boy Advance SP, Game Boy Pocket, Game Boy Light, Game Boy Player on Game Cube, and recent third-party consoles that can read these cartridges, like Analogue Pocket. Not compatible with Nintendo Game Boy DMG, DS, DSi, 3DS, or later Nintendo systems.

Choose a book for your Game Boy

Classic literature available for GBbook

In the personalization field, write the title of the book you want in the cartridge. You can choose a literary classic, any public domain work, a book in any language, or you can send us your own digital file (PDF or text). Converting your personal file does not involve any extra cost. If you’re not sure whether a book is suitable, you can message us before ordering.

Discounts

Complete your collection and save. When purchasing more than one cartridge, you can use the coupon TRILOGY.

GBbook FAQ

• Because the cartridges and shells are vintage or repurposed items, small cosmetic marks may be present.
• The included text is a public domain work adapted for Game Boy and does not constitute a modern critical edition. Transcription inconsistencies may be present.
• International customs fees and import duties for the United States are now paid in advance and included in the shipping cost. Any other destination country’s taxes, fees, and duties are not included.
• More info is available in the FAQ.