When you're using a Raspberry Pi, you don't really need a case for it. I mean, sure, it's nice to have one to keep it protected from spills, drops, and dust, but it's not like a PC where you need a case to keep everything together. As such, when people use their Pis for retro gaming, sometimes they just plug it in as-is and they're done. And I accept that.

However, there is an even better solution: 3D print your own case. And not just any case, but an awesome retro gaming case that looks cool. Is it practical? No. Is it required? Absolutely not. Should you make one anyway? You know the answer to that.

4 The Nintendo GameCube Pi case nails the look just right

Looks like the real thing

First up, let's check out this case I found in January of this year. This case is shaped like a Nintendo GameCube, and fits a Raspberry Pi 3, 4, or 5. It does have vents on it to keep things cool, but you can install heat sinks yourself if you think you'll be gaming a lot on it.

You'll need a few screws to complete this project, and you also need to be careful as to which model you print out, as there's a specific model for each make of Raspberry Pi you wish to install within it. But once you've gotten it all printed out and set up, you'll have a cool miniature GameCube to have on your desk.

3 The PiStation 2 is perfect for PlayStation fans

Yes, it can stand upright

If you were more of a fan of Sony's consoles, you'll get more of a kick out of the PiStation 2. It takes a lot of the design elements of the PlayStation 2 and re-invents them to better suit the Raspberry Pi:

Introducing the PiStation 2, a cute little case for the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B and Pi 5, this model is themed around the Playstation 2 console from many of our childhoods

It is printed in 4 parts, the top part prints logo side down and i would recommend a textured plate for this but whatever you prefer will work, the top part requires tree supports to print correctly as there are small overhangs, the inside edges are chamfered to keep the amount of support required to a minimum

You'll need some glue to stick the USB accessories on, but otherwise, the case fits together by itself, no adhesives required.

2 The NinTastic puts the little SNES hinge to good use

It's very cute to boot

One of my favorite design decisions for retro Raspberry Pi cases is when the creator lets you insert your SD card into the same slot as the original console. So, when I saw the NinTastic, I knew I had to bring it up. This clever little piece lets you plug in your games under the front flap of this SNES look-alike, much like how people did when they played on the real thing. Plus, its teeny-tiny size lets you place it anywhere you like, and it won't take up too much room. I also love the Raspberry Pi logo on the underside acting as an air vent.

1 The Mini Arcade is a retro gamer's ultimate dream

Doesn't get much better than this

Finally, if you want your Raspberry Pi case to be more than just housing for your SBC, we have this excellent Mini Arcade project. Unfortunately, the buttons and joysticks aren't actual controllers, and you'll need a Bluetooth controller to play your games on it. However, the project also adds its own screen and speakers, meaning you don't need to wire it up to a screen to play your games.

Here's how the creator describes it:

Welcome to the Mini Arcadee Project - Build your own mini arcade with a 5 inch screen to play your favorite 80s and 90s console games! This model has been tested with Raspberry Pi3 and Pi4 and works very well. Using an AMS makes the printing of this model with indivual colors very easy. Just paint as required in your slicer. All parts have been printed with a layer height of 0.2mm.

There's a lot of work that goes into making one of these, but personally, I think the end result is well worth it.

Raspberry Pi gaming has never looked better

While a case is a great way to keep your SBC protected, why make do with the boring stuff? Now you have some excellent retro gaming case ideas the next time you want to bust out the classics once more.