These Custom Nike Sneakers Let You Play Classic SNES Games

To mark the 35th anniversary of the Super Nintendo's debut in Japan (known there as the Super Famicom), designerGustavo Bonzaninihas crafted a remarkable tribute. Blending '90s style with cutting-edge tech, Bonzanini'sAIR SNESsneakers are a heavily customized take on theNike Air Max 90. While drawing inspiration from other gaming footwear like Bull Airs’ ShoeBoys, what sets Bonzanini’s creation apart is its dual purpose: it’s also a fully functional retro gaming console.

Considering the bulky nature of the original Super Nintendo and its cartridges,Bonzaniniwisely avoided the challenge of miniaturizing the console's actual hardware to fit within a wearable shoe. Instead, they embraced emulation, opting for a compactRaspberry Pi Zero W. This microcomputer offers ample processing power to run classic 16-bit SNES titles through theRetroPieemulator, whichBonzaninithoughtfully customized to complement the aesthetic of the sneakers themselves.

Intriguingly, the microcomputer isn't stashed in the sole of theAir Max 90. Instead, all the electronics, including a battery capable of providing up to 30 minutes of gameplay, are cleverly housed within the sneaker's tongue. While theRaspberry Pi Zero Wcomes with a built-in Mini HDMI port,Bonzaniniadded a small analog converter. This thoughtful detail ensures theAIR SNESconnects to a TV using classic RCA cables, truly embodying the "1990 feel" of the design.

Further enhancing the authentic experience, the sneakers are compatible with an original SNES gamepad. To minimize clutter and enhance usability,Bonzaninimodified the controller with an8BitDo Mod Kit, enabling it to connect wirelessly to theRaspberry Pivia Bluetooth. Given the burgeoning interest in both retro gaming nostalgia and sneaker culture, there's little question that demand for theAIR SNESwould be immense. However, it remains a unique, singular creation with no current intentions for commercial production.