In a time not so long ago, physical game stores were a staple of the gaming community. These vibrant hubs were not only places to purchase the latest titles but also featured interactive kiosks where gamers could try out new consoles and handheld devices. These kiosks typically included a console, a display screen, and any necessary controllers. However, as technology advanced and the digital era took over, many of these nostalgic kiosks fell into disrepair or were discarded altogether, with only a handful escaping the fate of being scrapped.

One such fortunate survivor is a rare Game Boy kiosk that was recently rescued by The Retro Future after it was discovered at a construction site. Unfortunately, this piece of gaming history was found in a severely damaged condition, particularly the particle board which had suffered extensive degradation over the years.

These Game Boy kiosks were notable not only for their design but also for housing a special edition Game Boy, a highly sought-after collectible that has garnered significant interest among enthusiasts. The restoration project aimed to restore both the physical structure of the kiosk and its unique gaming capabilities, a process that required immense skill and dedication.

To begin the restoration, the team focused on salvaging as much of the original particle board as possible. They enlisted the help of a professional furniture restorer named Don, who provided invaluable expertise in repairing and patching the damaged material. This process became an educational showcase for effectively handling particle board, a material often criticized for its fragility but capable of being restored with the right techniques.

Once the boards were repaired, they were reassembled more securely than how the kiosk was initially constructed. The new assembly utilized updated fastening methods that not only improved durability but also allowed for easier disassembly if future repairs were needed. Fortunately, most of the plastic components of the kiosk remained intact, and the original Game Boy grey paint color was successfully matched, preserving its authentic look.

Another fascinating aspect of the restoration involved recreating a missing piece of artwork that adorned the kiosk. Luckily, reference images from existing kiosks were available, providing a valuable guide to replicate the artwork accurately. For a few metal pieces that were essential to secure the special Game Boy, a similar kiosk was used to take precise measurements.

After months of diligent work and careful restoration, the moment finally arrived. The kiosk was powered back on, instantly transporting those present back to the year 1990. The atmosphere was electrifying as the familiar sounds of Tetris began to play on the dim, green-and-black screen, reminding everyone of the joy and excitement of gaming in its earlier days. Hunched over the kiosk in the same manner as many did decades ago, players reveled in the nostalgia, celebrating the revival of a cherished piece of gaming history.