The screen on the Game Boy is bright in my eyes. I press the button for Mario, but nothing happens. I try again, harder this time, but still just a static noise instead of the familiar beep of jumping. I flip through the games, each one ending with no sound or picture. The little speaker hums faintly, trying to make its tune heard but failing. I shake the handheld hoping it will work better, but it only makes more noise, like tiny bells jingling inside.

I put the Game Boy down and look around my room. A small puddle of light from outside shines through the window, making shapes dance on the wall as leaves flutter by. The sound of beeping keeps echoing in my ears, reminding me that the game isn’t working right now. I decide to try another game just in case, but every single one gives me only static and hums.

I guess I’ll have to find something else to do for a while. Maybe read a book or color in a picture instead of playing my Game Boy today.