Technology

Believe It or Not: Nintendo's Alarmo Can Play Doom, and Here's How!

2024-11-03

Author: Ying

Introduction

In an astonishing turn of events, it has recently been discovered that Nintendo's quirky Alarmo alarm clock is not just a morning wake-up tool—it can actually run the iconic video game, Doom! This delightful blend of nostalgia and innovation has captured the attention of gamers and tech enthusiasts alike.

Unexpected Devices

You might be surprised to learn that several unexpected devices, from John Deere tractors to Lego bricks, have also been able to run Doom, but the realization that Alarmo can do the same is truly remarkable. This leap in functionality was achieved by a brilliant hacker known as GaryOberNicht, who unveiled the hack on social platforms such as Mastodon and X.

Demo and Gameplay

In a captivating video demonstration, Gary shows how players can navigate the grimy digital realm of Doom by manipulating the Alarmo's mushroom-shaped button. Each press allows them to move, shoot, and unlock doors—transforming this adorable timepiece into a surprisingly engaging gaming device.

How It Works

Gary revealed that the entire process is surprisingly straightforward: "It’s possible to load the shareware version of Doom entirely from USB, without modifying the Alarmo." They have generously shared the software and a step-by-step guide on GitHub, making it accessible for any handy Alarmo owner who dares to venture into this unique modding experience.

The Hack's Origin

So how did this audacious maneuver come to fruition? According to Gary, the foundational work began when fellow hacker Spinda utilized a Flipper Zero to extract the Alarmo's firmware. Following that, Gary devised a clever method to use the USB-C port to link the Alarmo to custom firmware, effectively bypassing the need to alter the device itself.

Future Prospects

Given the ease with which this hack can be duplicated, it is likely that the Alarmo community may push the boundaries of its capabilities even further. Gamers are already speculating on what other classics could potentially be ported to this unconventional platform. However, all eyes are now on Nintendo. The gaming giant has been notoriously vigilant in protecting its intellectual property, and how it will respond to this emerging trend remains to be seen.

Conclusion

As the lines between everyday objects and gaming experiences blur, one thing is for sure—if you own an Alarmo and are craving a unique blend of gaming and practicality, now is the time to indulge your curiosity! Could this be a sign of a new wave of DIY gaming? Keep an eye out for what the future holds!