A unique project has emerged, combining gaming and culture, with a functional handheld game that also serves as the Official 2026 Fiesta San Antonio Medal. This miniature Pac-Man game features a 1.69" ST7789 LCD screen and is controlled by tilt movements, allowing for an arcade-like experience in a palm-sized format.
Recently shared on the ESP32 subreddit by user aedile, the device utilizes an ESP32-C6 and boasts full Z80 CPU emulation, achieving gameplay at original arcade speeds with smooth 60 FPS graphics and authentic sound effects. The creator noted some challenges during demonstration due to the device's setup but maintained that the gaming experience is "wicked fun."
This project not only stands out as a conversation starter but also provides insight into the cultural significance of Fiesta medals, which are traditionally unique collectibles. The GitHub page accompanying the project offers detailed instructions for those interested in creating their own version, although users will need to source the Pac-Man ROM independently.