The Arduino Nano acts as the core processor running the game logic, while the 0.96" OLED display renders the graphics including the bird, obstacles, and score. The analog joystick module reads player inputs; moving the joystick upward triggers the bird to flap upwards. The software continually checks for collision states between the bird, pipes, and ground to trigger game-over events, while successfully passing obstacles increments the score.
Why Build This
Enjoy a fun and nostalgic retro gaming project
Learn the fundamentals of microcontroller graphics and input handling
Gain hands-on experience assembling embedded electronics on a breadboard
Real-World Application
Projects like this build foundational skills in human-machine interface (HMI) design, embedded graphics rendering, and real-time input processing, which are useful in consumer electronics and custom handheld devices.
Skills You'll Learn
Wiring and interfacing an OLED display with Arduino
Reading analog and digital inputs from a joystick module
Implementing basic game physics and collision detection
Managing real-time score tracking and screen rendering
Safety Precautions
Ensure proper wiring connections and double-check VCC and GND pins before powering the circuit to prevent short circuits. Disconnect the power source when modifying circuit connections on the breadboard. Keep small components and wires away from young children to prevent choking hazards.
Technology Tags
ARDUINO NANO
OLED DISPLAY
JOYSTICK
RETRO GAMING
DIY ELECTRONICS
EMBEDDED SYSTEMS
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, other boards like the Arduino Uno can work, but the code and pin mappings may need adjustments to fit the Arduino Nano pinout used in the tutorial.
You can restart the game simply by moving the joystick after a collision has occurred.
The full code and schematic are available in the KitKraft GitHub repository linked in the tutorial.
This page is part of Kitkraft's Project Hub — a curated collection of electronics & robotics projects gathered from the maker community to help students and hobbyists discover and learn to build. Kitkraft does not claim authorship of the original project, and makes no representation as to the accuracy, completeness or safety of third-party source material. The summary and "How It Works" explanation above are AI-generated, rewritten with reference to the original tutorial — not a reproduction of it. Full credit and a direct link to the original source are provided above. If you're the original creator and have a concern about how your work is represented here, please contact us and we'll address it promptly.
