Tag: retro gaming

  • Commodore 64 Ultimate: New Edition with Modern & Classic Features

    Commodore 64 Ultimate: New Edition with Modern & Classic Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Commodore 64 Ultimate is a new version of the classic home computer, priced at $299.99, with shipping expected between October and November 2025.
    2. It is compatible with at least 99% of all 1980s and 1990s cartridges, games, and accessories, but uses an AMD Xilinx Artix-7 FPGA instead of the original processor.
    3. The system features 128 MB of DDR2 RAM, 16 MB of flash storage, and video output options through HDMI or DIN-8 connectors.
    4. Audio options include a 3.5mm jack and optical output, with built-in Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity; the keyboard has mechanical switches and RGB lighting.
    5. The package includes a USB stick with licensed video games, music, and demos, including a sequel to Jupiter Lander called Ascension.

    Historically, the Commodore 64 stands out as one of the most famous home computers. Now, there’s a new version called the Commodore 64 Ultimate that is up for pre-order. The price for this new edition is $299.99, and it is expected to ship between October and November 2025.

    Compatibility and Specifications

    The manufacturer claims that at least 99% of all cartridges, games, and accessories from the 1980s and 1990s will work with this system. It is worth noting that this model does not use the original processor; instead, it is powered by an AMD Xilinx Artix-7 FPGA. It comes equipped with 128 MB of DDR2 RAM and 16 MB of flash storage. Users can enjoy video output through HDMI or DIN-8 connectors, which lets them experience their favorite games on classic tube TVs. The system also supports USB storage devices and emulation for the cassette drive, which can be connected like a traditional data cassette or floppy disk drive.

    Audio and Connectivity Features

    For audio, it offers a 3.5mm jack and optical output via S/PDI, with both Ethernet and Wi-Fi built in. The keyboard maintains the original layout and features mechanical Gateron Pro 3.0 switches along with integrated RGB lighting. Additionally, the package includes a USB stick containing licensed video games, music, and demos, featuring a special sequel to Jupiter Lander called Ascension.

    Conclusion

    With this new release, Commodore aims to blend nostalgia with modern technology, ensuring that fans of the original Commodore 64 can enjoy their beloved games with updated features. The excitement around the Commodore 64 Ultimate is palpable, and many are eager to get their hands on it when it becomes available.

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    Commodore 64 Ultimate: New Edition with Modern & Classic FeaturesCommodore 64 Ultimate: New Edition with Modern & Classic Features

     

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  • X68000 Z2: New 8-Inch Retro CRT Monitor Released

    X68000 Z2: New 8-Inch Retro CRT Monitor Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Zuiki X68000 Z2 is an 8-inch LCD monitor with a 4:3 aspect ratio and a nostalgic CRT-like design.
    2. It features a resolution of 1024 x 768 pixels, a refresh rate of 60Hz, and connects via USB-C or HDMI, with power supplied through USB-C.
    3. Users can adjust brightness, contrast, and volume using buttons on the monitor.
    4. The design is inspired by the X68000 Z Super mini PC, which is priced at about $425 in Japan and runs retro software.
    5. The Zuiki X68000 Z2 is currently being crowdfunded on Kibidango for around $239, with no confirmation on global availability.

    The Zuiki X68000 Z2 is a brand new monitor that features an 8-inch LCD with a 4:3 aspect ratio. It has a curved acrylic screen along with a thicker case, giving it the nostalgic appearance and feel of a classic CRT monitor. Although the LCD might not have the fastest response times, it could potentially deliver better color accuracy and save power.

    Resolution and Connectivity

    This monitor boasts a resolution of 1024 x 768 pixels and operates at a refresh rate of 60Hz. It connects through USB-C or HDMI, but power is always supplied through USB-C. If the computer or laptop’s port can deliver 15 watts of power, there’s no need for an extra power adapter. Users can adjust brightness, contrast, and volume using buttons located on the monitor. The manufacturer still hasn’t confirmed the rest of the technical details.

    Design Inspiration

    The design of the monitor aims to complement the X68000 Z Super, a mini PC that is also seeking funding. This mini PC takes cues from Sharp’s X68000 series from 1991 and is priced starting at about $425 in Japan. Given its ARM Cortex-A7 quad-core processor and 512MB of RAM, it only has sufficient performance for running older retro software.

    At present, the Zuiki X68000 Z2 is being crowdfunded on the Japanese platform Kibidango, where it can be preordered for around $239. In comparison, the matching Zuiki X68000 Z Super mini PC is available for about $425. The manufacturer has not disclosed whether these products will be available globally in the future.

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    X68000 Z2: New 8-Inch Retro CRT Monitor ReleasedX68000 Z2: New 8-Inch Retro CRT Monitor Released

     

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  • BBC Breakfast Faces Criticism for Retrogaming Segment Setup

    BBC Breakfast Faces Criticism for Retrogaming Segment Setup

    Key Takeaways

    1. The BBC Breakfast segment highlighted the resurgence of retrogaming but featured an NES cartridge mistakenly placed in an SNES console.
    2. Viewers reacted with surprise and humor on social media, with many sharing jokes and comments on platforms like Reddit.
    3. The segment attracted approximately 6.5 million viewers, but the focus shifted from celebrating retro gaming to the mix-up.
    4. UKIE distanced itself from responsibility for the display error, clarifying that the studio team handled the setup independently.
    5. Despite the mishap, the incident raised awareness about retro gaming, although it became the main talking point overshadowing the original celebration.

    This morning’s segment on BBC Breakfast highlighted the comeback of retrogaming. However, things took a surprising twist when viewers noticed an NES Super Mario Bros. cartridge stuck inside a Super Nintendo Entertainment System.

    Online Reactions

    The blunder led to a mix of astonishment and mockery across social media platforms and among gamers. During the broadcast, Professor Nickle Poole (OBE), the Chief Executive of UKIE, showcased a variety of retro gaming devices. The display included a range of equipment, from a Sinclair ZX81 to a Nintendo Wii and an SNES.

    Viewership and Focus

    The segment attracted around 6.5 million viewers and aimed to celebrate the renewed interest in retro gaming consoles. Instead, the attention was diverted by an NES game awkwardly inserted into an SNES. By day’s end, many users flocked to r/gaming to share humorous comments like “I want to report a crime.”

    Community Reactions

    Reddit users had a blast with this error from the BBC. One commenter remarked, “the setup was either done by someone clueless about games or by an expert trying to mess with this subreddit.” Other commentators expressed their disappointment over the missing UK’s top-selling 16-bit console, the SEGA Mega Drive.

    UKIE’s Response

    Following the on-air error, UKIE quickly clarified that it was not responsible for the display setup and distanced itself from the mishap in a statement to VGC. They explained that the studio team managed the setup independently and that Poole had no control over it during the broadcast. UKIE noted, “For transparency, the studio team set up the in-studio display independently and handled the placement of the consoles—unfortunately, we couldn’t adjust it whilst on air.”

    Despite Poole’s appearance on BBC Breakfast, the gaffe succeeded in drawing attention to retro-gaming. However, it’s probable that Poole won’t easily forget the NES-SNES mix-up that overshadowed the segment.

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  • Retroid Flip 2: Dimensity 1100 Variant Offers Smooth PSP & GameCube Emulation

    Retroid Flip 2: Dimensity 1100 Variant Offers Smooth PSP & GameCube Emulation

    Key Takeaways

    1. The updated Retroid Pocket Flip 2 handheld console features a MediaTek Dimensity 1100 chip and is priced at $200, making it $30 cheaper than the Snapdragon 865 variant.
    2. The device performs well with retro emulators, supporting games from platforms like Game Boy Advance, PSP, and Dreamcast, and can run most GameCube and Wii games smoothly at double resolution.
    3. Benchmark tests show both chips (Dimensity 1100 and Snapdragon 865) have similar thermal efficiency and stability, with negligible differences in performance during the 3DMark Wild Life Stress Test.
    4. The Dimensity 1100 model has limitations in emulation flexibility, lacking support for custom GPU drivers and dual booting into Linux, which affects performance in more demanding games like PS2 and Switch titles.
    5. The Flip 2 supports USB-C docking for a solid experience with third-party adapters and allows for charging during gameplay, with battery life varying from 3 hours on heavy usage to 16 hours on lighter games.

    Retroid has launched an updated version of its Pocket Flip 2 handheld console, now powered by MediaTek’s Dimensity 1100 chip. Priced at US$200, it is US$30 cheaper than the Snapdragon 865 variant. The device maintains the familiar clamshell design, features a 5.5-inch 1080p AMOLED screen, and runs on Android 13.

    Performance with Retro Emulators

    In a hands-on review, Russ from Retro Game Corps tested the Dimensity 1100 model with various retro emulators. He found that it functioned well with systems like Game Boy Advance, PSP, and Dreamcast, and was able to run most GameCube and Wii games smoothly at double resolution.

    Benchmark Results

    During testing, Russ also executed the 3DMark Wild Life Stress Test, which is a GPU benchmark loop that lasts for 20 minutes. He noted negligible differences between the two chips, with both the Dimensity 1100 and Snapdragon 865 achieving a stability rate of 99.5%, staying below 30 °C, and experiencing battery drains of 10% and 9%, respectively. The thermal efficiency and handling under load were almost the same in this test.

    Emulation Support Limitations

    However, the Snapdragon version appears to have an advantage in terms of emulation flexibility. Russ mentioned that the Dimensity 1100 model does not support custom GPU drivers and cannot dual boot into Linux, which limits its ability to run more demanding platforms such as PS2 and Switch. In his gameplay tests, he noticed frame drops and visual glitches in games like God of War II and Wind Waker HD, problems that the Snapdragon variant managed to handle more effectively.

    Streaming and Android gaming performed well on both versions of the Flip 2, according to Russ. While the gameplay was generally enjoyable, he pointed out that the Dimensity model exhibited slightly higher video decoding latency, ranging from 8 to 10 ms compared to just 2 to 4 ms on the Snapdragon.

    Docking and Usability

    Docked mode continues to be available on the Flip 2 via USB-C, and based on testing from Retro Game Corps, the experience remains solid. Russ found that it worked well with both third-party adapters and Retroid’s official dock, which allows for charging during gameplay. He noted that with the lid shut and a Bluetooth controller attached, it effectively transforms the handheld into a compact Android console.

    For retro gaming and sixth-generation titles, the Dimensity 1100 Flip 2 seems like a good option. Russ describes it as responsive and capable, with the added advantage of USB-C video output for larger displays. Battery life can vary significantly based on usage: up to 16 hours for lighter games like GBA or SNES, around 6 to 8 hours for more demanding systems like GameCube and PS2, and just over 3 hours when running GPU benchmarks. In terms of specifications, it features 8GB of RAM, 128GB of storage, and is available in four colors.

    For a detailed examination of how the Dimensity variant performs in real-world emulation and gameplay, it’s worth checking out the full video from Retro Game Corps. The video offers a comprehensive breakdown of its strengths, weaknesses, and everything in between.

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    Retroid Flip 2: Dimensity 1100 Variant Offers Smooth PSP & GameCube Emulation
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  • Slim GamerCard: Raspberry Pi Handheld with Multiple Ports

    Slim GamerCard: Raspberry Pi Handheld with Multiple Ports

    Key Takeaways

    1. Slim and Lightweight Design: The GamerCard is only 6.5mm thick and weighs 100 grams, resembling a gift card for easy portability.

    2. Impressive Display and Performance: It features a 4.0-inch IPS display with 60fps, powered by a Raspberry Pi Zero 2W with a 64-bit quad-core processor.

    3. Control and Connectivity Options: The device includes multiple control pads, various ports (HDMI, USB, Qwiic), and Bluetooth 4.2 and Wi-Fi connectivity.

    4. Built-in Storage and Game Features: It has 128GB of built-in storage (no MicroSD slot) and comes with two pre-installed games optimized for the device, plus the ability to emulate classic games.

    5. Affordable Pricing: The GamerCard is priced at £125 (around $171), making it an accessible option for gamers.

    There are many handheld gaming devices out there, each with unique designs and sizes. While several fit nicely into your pocket, like the Retroid Pocket Mini V2, which you can find on Amazon for $269, they tend to be a bit bulky. However, the GamerCard stands out as a sleek option. This device is powered by Raspberry Pi and created by Grant Sinclair, who happens to be the nephew of Sir Clive Sinclair, the inventor of the ZX Spectrum computer that debuted in 1982.

    Slim and Light Design

    The GamerCard measures just 6.5mm in thickness, making it one of the thinnest handhelds around. It weighs only 100 grams, which adds to its appeal. Beyond its dimensions, the design itself is quite special. The GamerCard resembles a gift card, complete with a slot at the top that allows it to be hung on store hooks. A promotional video even shows it displayed in a supermarket alongside typical gift cards, but unfortunately, you won’t find the GamerCard in physical retail locations.

    Impressive Specifications

    In terms of technical specs, the GamerCard features a 4.0-inch square IPS display that runs at 60fps, boasting a pixel density of 254 PPI and protected by sapphire glass. The device operates on a Raspberry Pi Zero 2W, which is equipped with a 64-bit quad-core processor utilizing Cortex-A53 cores running at 1GHz, along with 512MB of SDRAM. It comes with 128GB of built-in storage, but it lacks a MicroSD card slot.

    The front sports two large silicone control pads, while the back has two smaller silicone pads that function as shoulder buttons. Additionally, there are two buttons on the upper right side for Select and Start, and a power button located on the upper left side. The GamerCard is also packed with various ports: on the right side, you’ll find an HDMI port, a Qwiic port, and USB ports for connecting peripherals if you want to use it as a Raspberry Pi-powered computer. At the bottom, there’s a USB-C port for charging the 1,600mAh battery.

    Additional Features and Pricing

    According to the product details, all control pads are coated with anti-bacterial material. Moreover, it includes an ultra-slim passive heat sink that rests on the processor. Other notable features consist of stereo front-facing mini speakers, micro LEDs to indicate battery charging status, as well as Bluetooth 4.2 and Wi-Fi connectivity.

    You can purchase the GamerCard right now for £125, which is about $171 or €145, directly from the manufacturer’s website. It comes with two pre-installed games that were originally made for the Nintendo Switch but have been optimized for the GamerCard. Plus, users will have the ability to emulate thousands of classic games on this device.

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  • 3dSen NES Emulator Launches Full Version for 3D Nintendo Games

    3dSen NES Emulator Launches Full Version for 3D Nintendo Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. 3D Transformation: The 3dSen NES emulator turns traditional 2D NES games into 3D experiences using voxel technology, enhancing graphics and gameplay.

    2. Availability and Pricing: 3dSen is available on Steam for $8.99, with a VR version called 3dSen VR priced at $14.99.

    3. Legal Compliance: The emulator does not include NES ROMs to avoid legal issues with Nintendo, although it requires users to supply their own compatible game files.

    4. Enhanced Features: 3dSen offers modern lighting, shadow effects, camera controls, and the ability to rewind or fast-forward gameplay, improving the overall gaming experience.

    5. Compatibility Limitations: The emulator has limited compatibility with games, and potential users may hesitate to buy it due to the availability of traditional free alternatives.

    Emulators bring old-school gaming back to life on modern PCs, mobile devices, or gaming consoles. These tools let people play Nintendo games with better graphics. Yet, the 3dSen NES emulator takes it a step further by turning traditional 2D games into a 3D experience using voxel technology. This software has moved out of early access and is now available on Steam at a special price of $8.99. For those into VR gaming, there is also 3dSen VR, which can be purchased for $14.99.

    Avoiding Legal Issues

    In an effort to steer clear of any potential legal actions from Nintendo, 3dSen doesn’t come with NES ROMs included. While the program is compatible with these files, not every game will render in 3D. Tran Vu Truc, the creator behind this project, has spent around a decade working on the NES emulator. The lengthy development has involved carefully crafting 3D versions of beloved Nintendo classics. As it stands, players can enjoy over 100 games, including Super Mario Bros., Final Fantasy, and Zelda, with an added layer of depth.

    Enhanced Gaming Experience

    3dSen goes beyond just converting low-res sprites to 3D models. The application also incorporates modern lighting, shadow effects, and even moving backgrounds. Users have the ability to control the camera, ensuring their characters are always visible. If a mistake happens, players can rewind or fast-forward through the gameplay. A save feature helps ease the pain of unexpected character deaths in NES games.

    Sometimes, retro gaming enthusiasts spend years waiting for Nintendo to upgrade their favorite games. Alternatively, if the company decides to offer emulated versions on Nintendo Switch Online, latency could become a problem. 3dSen enables users on Windows PCs, Linux systems, and Intel-based Macs to play enhanced NES ROMs directly on their devices.

    Limitations and Considerations

    The main downside of this program is its limited compatibility with games, even with a fallback 2D mode. Additionally, potential buyers might think twice before investing in the NES emulator when there are more traditional free alternatives available.

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  • Sipeed Tang Mega FPGA Board: Emulate SNES, Game Boy, PlayStation

    Sipeed Tang Mega FPGA Board: Emulate SNES, Game Boy, PlayStation

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Sipeed Tang Mega is a versatile FPGA platform for retro gaming, allowing accurate emulation of various classic systems.
    2. It has two versions, 138K and 60K, differing in execution units, memory, and processor specifications.
    3. The 138K model features an 800MHz RISC-V AE350 processor and 1GB of DDR3 RAM, while the 60K model has 512MB of RAM.
    4. Connectivity options include HDMI, microSD support, two USB 3.0 ports for gamepads, and expansion ports for additional components.
    5. The board is available for import starting around €74, excluding shipping costs.

    We often discuss devices designed for retro gaming, especially handheld ones. However, the new Sipeed Tang Mega stands out as it is not a conventional gaming handheld, but a versatile platform. It features an FPGA SoC, allowing for more accurate emulation. Users can access various cores, which are software packages containing instructions for the processor. These cores enable emulation of classic gaming systems like the Nintendo Entertainment System, SNES, different Game Boy versions, and even Sony’s PlayStation. Although it comes with comprehensive documentation, those wanting to dive straight into their favorite classic games might find a handheld gaming device more suitable than this FPGA board.

    Variants and Specifications

    Moving on, the Sipeed Tang Mega is available in two versions: 138K and 60K. These variants are quite distinct from each other. The number in the model name refers to execution units, which are actually lookup tables, not the execution units found in typical graphics cards. The SSRAM and BSRAM capacities also vary significantly between the two models. The Sipeed Tang Mega 138K features a RISC-V AE350 processor clocked at 800MHz and is equipped with 1GB of DDR3 memory, as opposed to the 512MB found in the other variant.

    Connectivity and Features

    You can connect monitors and TVs using HDMI, and there’s a 40-pin connector available for smaller displays. However, the FPGA board does not include built-in mass storage, but it does support microSD cards. Additionally, it has two USB 3.0 ports that can be used to connect gamepads. The dimensions of the Sipeed Tang Mega are 2.56 x 2.2 inches, and it comes with multiple expansion ports, including one for Game Boy Advance cartridges. You can also connect PCIe components through an FFC connector. Currently, the board can be imported for prices beginning around €74, not including shipping.

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    Sipeed Tang Mega FPGA Board: Emulate SNES, Game Boy, PlayStation

     

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  • Affordable Gaming Handheld Under $50 with Long Battery Life

    Affordable Gaming Handheld Under $50 with Long Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. The U8 handheld is designed for emulating and playing retro games, not for high-end gaming like the Asus ROG Ally X.
    2. It features a 4-inch IPS display with a resolution of 800 x 680 pixels and runs on an RK3326 SoC with 1GB of LPDDR4 RAM.
    3. The device operates on a modified Linux OS and can emulate games from systems like PSP and Game Boy Advance, but not all games may work perfectly.
    4. The U8 includes two joysticks, two shoulder buttons, a headphone jack, and has a battery life of up to 8 hours.
    5. It is available for order at prices starting at $39, with potential additional shipping and import fees from China.

    We’ve shared multiple times about cheaper gaming handhelds, many of which are from China. These devices are not as powerful as high-end handhelds like the Asus ROG Ally X, since they are made for emulating and playing retro games rather than handling the latest triple-A games. Yet, playing older games can be quite enjoyable, particularly when you’re on the move.

    Display and Specs

    The newly launched U8 handheld features a 4-inch IPS display with a resolution of 800 x 680 pixels. It runs on an RK3326 SoC that has four CPU cores operating at a maximum speed of 1.5GHz and is supported by 1GB of LPDDR4 RAM. As is common with budget retro handhelds, it lacks internal storage but includes two card slots. One microSD card is meant for the operating system, while the other is for game storage.

    Operating System and Compatibility

    Running on a specially modified Linux operating system, the U8 can emulate games from various systems, like Sony’s PSP and Nintendo’s Game Boy Advance, to name a couple. However, it’s important to note that not all games from these platforms may work flawlessly, and users should be mindful of copyright laws regarding these games.

    Controls and Battery Life

    This affordable retro handheld comes with two joysticks, two shoulder buttons, and a conventional headphone jack. Additionally, the USB Type-C port can be used for charging the 3,500mAh battery or to connect a gamepad or other controller. Finally, the U8 claims to have a battery life of up to 8 hours. You can now order the U8 handheld on Banggood, with prices starting at $39, not including shipping and import fees. Depending on where you are, shipping from China may take a few weeks.

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    Affordable Gaming Handheld Under $50 with Long Battery LifeAffordable Gaming Handheld Under $50 with Long Battery Life

     

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  • GKD Little: Leaked Image Shows Unique New Gaming Handheld Design

    GKD Little: Leaked Image Shows Unique New Gaming Handheld Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gaming handhelds are divided into two types: modern game systems (like Windows or SteamOS) and retro game systems.
    2. The GKD Little is a new handheld device focused on retro gaming, featuring limited information and a single analog stick.
    3. The GKD Little’s design includes a D-pad, four action buttons, and shoulder buttons, which may limit compatibility with modern 3D games.
    4. It is expected to use a 4.5-inch screen with a 1620 x 1080 pixel resolution, which may not suit older console games designed for a 4:3 aspect ratio.
    5. The launch date and pricing of the GKD Little are still unknown, and there are uncertainties about the project’s continuation and technical specifications.

    Gaming handhelds can be categorized into two main types. One type is designed to run modern games through systems like Windows or SteamOS, while the other focuses on older retro games. The new GKD Little seems to fit into the latter group, although information about this handheld is limited.

    Image Leak

    Recently, an image appeared on Discord, allegedly showing the future GKD Little. This device isn’t expected to change the landscape of handheld gaming dramatically. However, it does come with interesting features, notably a single analog stick. Without a second analog stick, it’s likely that many modern 3D games won’t work on it. The photo also displays a D-pad, four action buttons, and shoulder buttons.

    Specifications

    The design of the GKD Little seems to prioritize more than just functionality. Reports indicate that it will use the same screen as the Ayaneo Pocket Ace, which should be around 4.5 inches in size and have a resolution of 1620 x 1080 pixels. This yields an aspect ratio of 3:2, which may not be ideal for playing older console games that were originally designed for a 4:3 aspect ratio.

    At this moment, the launch date and pricing of the GKD Little remain uncertain. It’s possible that GKD might not continue with this project, or that the leaked image could be misleading. While details about the processor and other technical specs are not available yet, it is claimed that the handheld will be capable of emulating older consoles, extending up to the Sega Saturn and Dreamcast eras.

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  • Ayaneo Pocket Micro Classic: No Joysticks, Just Retro Gaming

    Ayaneo Pocket Micro Classic: No Joysticks, Just Retro Gaming

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nostalgic Design: The Ayaneo Pocket Micro Classic features a retro-inspired design with a fully button-driven interface, eliminating joysticks for a simplified gaming experience.

    2. Specifications: It is powered by a MediaTek Helio G99 processor, with options for 6GB or 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of storage, ensuring solid performance and ample storage for games.

    3. Display and Feedback: The device has a 3.5-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 960 × 640 pixels and includes haptic feedback through an X-axis linear motor, enhancing the gaming experience.

    4. Connectivity: The Pocket Micro Classic offers comprehensive connectivity options, including a USB Type-C port, USB 2.0 OTG port, and a microSD card slot for expandable storage.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The handheld starts at 1,249 yuan in China, with international early bird prices beginning at $179, and pre-orders are currently open for various models and configurations.

    Ayaneo has returned with a device that stirs up nostalgia, focusing on a straightforward design. The Pocket Micro Classic offers a fully button-driven experience, modernizing retro gaming aesthetics. With its compact 3.5-inch screen and a distinct throwback look, this handheld is sure to catch attention in the gaming market.

    Specifications of the Ayaneo Pocket Micro Classic

    Unlike many current handheld consoles that prioritize dual joysticks and comfort grips, Ayaneo is breaking the mold. The Pocket Micro Classic does away with joysticks altogether, featuring a responsive directional pad that functions similarly to a left joystick. It includes split L1/L2 and R1/R2 shoulder buttons that enhance the control scheme, guaranteeing precision without the risk of accidental inputs.

    This focus on buttons is not only about evoking nostalgia; it’s a conscious choice to simplify the gaming experience. Ayaneo asserts that this design aims to connect players with the “pure” spirit of retro gaming, where quick reflexes and button presses are key.

    Performance and Display

    Beneath its classic exterior, the Pocket Micro Classic is powered by MediaTek’s Helio G99 processor, with options for 6GB or 8GB of RAM and storage choices of up to 256GB using UFS 2.2. It also includes an active cooling fan to keep performance consistent, even during long gaming sessions.

    The handheld’s 3.5-inch IPS screen boasts a resolution of 960 × 640 pixels, providing clear visuals with a 3:2 aspect ratio, minimizing black borders while maximizing the display area. The device also utilizes an X-axis linear motor for haptic feedback, features a six-axis gyroscope, and supports dual-band Wi-Fi 5 along with Bluetooth 5.2.

    Connectivity and Design

    Designed for seamless connectivity, the handheld includes a USB Type-C port with OTG support for quick data transfer and charging, a USB 2.0 OTG port for extra peripherals, and a microSD card slot (SD 3.0) for additional storage capacity.

    Weighing in at just 227 grams and measuring 156mm x 63mm x 18mm, the Pocket Micro Classic is incredibly portable, easily fitting into your pocket. It is available in three colors: Retro Gold, Retro Grey, and Magic Black, each capturing the essence of classic gaming while presenting a modern finish.

    Pricing and Pre-Orders

    In China, the Ayaneo Pocket Micro Classic starts at 1,249 yuan for the 6GB+128GB version, while the 8GB+128GB variant is priced at 1,449 yuan. The premium 8GB+256GB models in Retro Grey and Retro Gold are listed at 1,649 yuan. Pre-orders for the handhelds are currently open.

    For those looking to purchase internationally, the early bird pricing begins at $179 for the base model. The 8GB+256GB versions are offered at $209 for the Magic Black and $239 for the Retro Grey and Retro Gold models. After the early bird phase, the retail prices for these higher-end models are anticipated to reach $269.

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    Ayaneo Pocket Micro Classic: No Joysticks, Just Retro GamingAyaneo Pocket Micro Classic: No Joysticks, Just Retro Gaming
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