Hands-On with GameBaby, Bitmo Lab’s Clever Case That Turns Your iPhone Into a Retro Handheld

Bitmo Lab’s much-anticipated GameBaby, a protective iPhone case that also serves as a retro gaming controller, has finally been released. First, attach it to your iPhone 15 Pro Max, 16 Pro Max, or the newer 17 series by sliding the top portion over your phone, making sure the volume buttons on the side are secure, and then snap the bottom part on from the bottom up.

The physical inputs on this device are a key part of its appeal, with a directional pad on the left and the A and B face buttons on the right. The shoulder buttons, marked L and R, are conveniently located on the upper edge. Below the face buttons, you’ll find choose and start buttons, a menu shortcut on one side, and a few additional things to discover.

So, when you hit one of these buttons, how does the screen underneath light up? It’s actually pretty cool, because there are conductive silicone pads underneath that provide sharp feedback, similar to an old-school membrane switch or two. Pressing the buttons feels fairly balanced, neither too easy or too difficult, and it’s also reasonably accurate, especially in fast-paced games like racing or platformers.

Delta, the free emulator app is a great match for this thing. Download a custom controller skin from the Bitmo Lab website and import it into Delta. It’s an excellent all-around package because it allows you to correctly map the buttons, positions the on-screen menus exactly where you want them (above the overlay), and even unlocks some additional capabilities such as quick save states. Without the skin, the inputs don’t match up as well, limiting what you can accomplish with several of the functions.

It’s compatible with all of the most recent iPhone models, including the 15 Pro Max, 16 Pro Max, and new 17 series. There are two color options: classic yellow and a new grey vintage color scheme; some models even include metal-capped face buttons for extra durability. Plus, it functions with tempered glass screen protectors without the need for charging or connection; everything runs directly from your phone’s battery and speakers.

The GameBaby costs $40, which includes just the basic case and a manual to get you started. Keep in mind that this isn’t heavy-duty armor plating; rather, it’s more of a mild “accident-proofing” type of protection. However, the raised corners serve to prevent your phone from being dropped on its face.