While working on GB Operator support for Game Boy Camera, we thought "Hey, wouldn't it be fun to get live feed from the Camera while it's connected to the device?"
Since first launching, users could already backup their photos with the GB Operator, or delete them permanently off the Camera's memory, but that day we decided to take it a step further. Some time and a couple of updates later, we are happy to announce that Playback v1.7.0 turns this idea into reality! Want to use your Game Boy Camera as a virtual webcam? Follow these simple steps below to get it running with OBS software.
1. Start the Emulation
Launch your Playback emulator and start the Game Boy Camera. Please note you need to use the mGBA core from the "Settings" → "Core Selector" screen. We also recommend disabling "Use Super Game Boy Borders" from "Emulator Settings" to have a larger picture.
2. Resize the Emulator Window
Resize the emulator window so that only the Game Boy Camera picture is visible. We recommend eliminating any extra UI for a cleaner look in OBS.
3. Open OBS and Create a New Source
Open OBS Studio, click the + in the Sources panel to add a new source, and choose macOS Screen Capture (or the equivalent for your system).
4. Set Capture Method and Window
In the new source’s Properties, set the following values:
- Method: Window Capture;
- Window: Select the Playback app.
5. Crop the Camera Image
To hide any UI elements and crop the image, follow these steps (make sure Lock Preview is disabled):
- Hover near the red border lines of the source;
- Hold Option (Mac) or Alt (Windows) while dragging to crop;
- Resize as needed to center the Game Boy Camera preview.
Tip: Before cropping, right-click the video output and go to Preview Scaling > Canvas (or Output) Resolution to improve clarity.
6. Start the Virtual Camera
Click Start Virtual Camera in OBS. Now your Game Boy Camera feed is available as a virtual webcam in any app that supports webcam input!
🎉 All done, congrats! Your Game Boy Camera is now broadcasting live. It's the perfect choice for retro-themed video chats, streams, creative projects or for that early Monday morning work meeting.