Video: https://youtu.be/k6CHJ9VKTnY

Tutorial

1. Get the parts, install Arduino IDE, install drivers for Arduino (if you have Arduino clone AND you are using Windows)
2. Copy-paste the code into Arduino IDE
3. Install the LedControl library using Arduino IDE Library Manager
4. Wire everything up (see the Wiring Diagram)
5. Connect your Arduino and select it in Tools > Board and Tools > Port
6. Upload
7. (optional) Tweak the variables, explore the code 😉

Parts

Part Name	Amazon link	Note
Arduino NANO (clone)	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=arduino+nano	UNO can be used as well
LED Matrix	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=arduino+matrix+MAX7219	MAX7219 controlled 8x8 LED Matrix
Joystick	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=arduino+joystick+breakout
Potentiometer	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=10k+potentiometer	any 1k ohm to 100k ohm should be fine
Some wires	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=arduino+wires	12 wires needed
Breadboard	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=arduino+breadboard

Wiring diagram

Pin	Arduino NANO or UNO
Matrix CLK	10
Matrix CS	11
Matrix DIN	12
Joystick X	A2
Joystick Y	A3
Potentiometer	A7

The exact pin order for the matrix or joystick may be different from the one shown on the image, so please be intelligent and use the table above.

Forks

• Arduino snake with sound: https://github.com/der-pw/arduino-snake

Other videos

• Mine, old version: https://youtu.be/k6CHJ9VKTnY
• Build tutorial: https://youtu.be/u9vSvXD0lks
• Build tutorial, english: https://youtu.be/XmKCHVKZTkE
• Very nice LEGO case: https://youtu.be/4oAePbd0kgw
• French video: https://youtu.be/tpbvVYAhIFE