Tag: Retro Gaming Handheld

  • Anbernic RG477V: Affordable Retro Handheld with PS2 & Wii U Emulation

    Anbernic RG477V: Affordable Retro Handheld with PS2 & Wii U Emulation

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Anbernic RG477V is a new vertical retro gaming handheld, competing with devices like the Retroid Pocket Classic and upcoming models.
    2. It features Hall effect joysticks, a 4.7-inch IPS display with 1,280 x 960 resolution, and a 120 Hz refresh rate for enhanced gaming experience.
    3. The RG477V is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8300 chipset, capable of emulating games up to Nintendo Wii U and PlayStation 2.
    4. It has a 5,500 mAh battery with 27 W charging, Bluetooth 5.3, and WiFi 6E connectivity, starting at $199.99 for the 128 GB model without a microSD slot.
    5. Anbernic will increase prices by $20 across the board starting December 23, 2023.


    The Anbernic RG477V has recently joined the growing list of vertical retro gaming handhelds. Its predecessor, the RG406V, which is currently priced at $195 on Amazon, mainly competed with the Ayaneo Pocket DMG. However, the RG477V now faces competition from the more budget-friendly Retroid Pocket Classic, along with the upcoming Pocket Vert and a speculated TrimUI Brick refresh.

    Pricing and Features

    The Retroid Pocket Classic offers a lower price point compared to the RG477V, yet it features the impressive Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 chipset. On the flip side, the RG477V boasts several advantages. For starters, it comes with Hall effect joysticks located beneath the ABXY buttons and a four-way dpad. Anbernic also enhances the experience with a 4.7-inch IPS display that has a resolution of 1,280 x 960 pixels and a 120 Hz refresh rate, allowing for Black Frame Insertion (BFI) while keeping gameplay at 60 FPS.

    Performance Insights

    At its core, the RG477V runs on a MediaTek Dimensity 8300 chipset. This hardware includes a Mali-G615 MP6 GPU and an octa-core CPU, featuring one Cortex-A715 and seven Cortex-A510 cores. With this power, the Dimensity 8300 is capable of emulating games up to the Nintendo Wii U and PlayStation 2, partly due to options for 6 GB or 8 GB of RAM.

    Battery and Connectivity

    Anbernic has also fitted the device with a substantial 5,500 mAh battery that supports charging up to 27 W. It includes a modem that provides Bluetooth 5.3 and WiFi 6E connectivity. The RG477V starts at $199.99 with 128 GB of storage but lacks a microSD card slot. For those looking for more memory, a variant with 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage is available for an additional $40, bringing the total to $269.99, which includes a 256 GB microSD card in either Black or Retro Grey. Anbernic plans to increase prices by $20 across the board starting December 23 at 10:00 UTC.

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  • Anbernic RG477V Review: Great Retro Gaming Handheld with GPU Issues

    Anbernic RG477V Review: Great Retro Gaming Handheld with GPU Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Construction and Size: The Anbernic RG477V is praised for its build quality and is noted as the largest vertical handheld device from Anbernic, featuring the biggest screen compared to its competitors.

    2. Comfort and Performance Issues: While comfortable to hold, the device weighs 339 grams and can heat up significantly in high performance mode, reaching 105 °C. An OTA update has resolved initial performance concerns.

    3. Emulation Capabilities: The RG477V performs well with retro games from systems like NES, SNES, and GameCube, but struggles with certain titles due to the Mali GPU, especially Nintendo Switch games and some PC games.

    4. Control Feedback: The controls are generally well-received, but the joysticks have a larger dead zone. Users are advised to switch between Vulkan and OpenGL for better gameplay experiences on certain games.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The RG477V launches on December 20th, starting at $219 for the base model (8GB RAM, 128GB storage) and $239 for the upgraded version (12GB RAM, 256GB storage), with a temporary $20 discount available initially.


    The Anbernic RG477V is the newest handheld gaming device from Anbernic. While its pricing and launch details have been shared before its December 20th release, early reviews of the RG477V have appeared online, uncovering some key information about the device.

    Positive Review Highlights

    One of the first reviews comes from Russ at the Retro Game Corps YouTube channel. He commends the construction of the device and even describes it as “likely the best vertical handheld” that Anbernic has crafted. When comparing it to other vertical handhelds like the Retroid Pocket Classic, which sells on Amazon for $149, Anbernic RG406V, Ayaneo Pocket DMG, and the Nintendo Game Boy DMG, the RG477V stands out as the biggest. This is not surprising given that it has the largest screen, too.

    Comfort and Controls

    Anbernic designed the RG477V to be comfortable to hold, even during long gaming sessions. However, with a weight of 339 grams, users should be cautious to not let it drop on their face while playing on their backs. The controls have received praise, although the joysticks’ dead zone is noted to be a bit too large and square. Nevertheless, they perform decently during gameplay.

    Russ pointed out that the Anbernic RG477V encountered a performance issue that caused the device to heat up significantly in high performance mode, reaching temperatures of 105 °C. It also struggled with the Wild Life Extreme Stress test, showing a major decline after the first loop. After informing Anbernic, they released an OTA update that resolved the issue in performance mode. In terms of performance, the RG477V is reported to be comparable to the Ayaneo Pocket DMG, which is priced nearly twice as much.

    Emulation Experience

    When it comes to retro game emulation, players should be prepared to see black bars while playing Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance games due to their 3:2 aspect ratios. However, games from NES, SNES, PS1, SEGA Genesis, Arcade, PS1, GameCube, and SEGA Dreamcast, which have a 4:3 aspect ratio like the Anbernic RG477V, should work well.

    The review mentions that the RG477V is well-suited for emulating GameCube and PS2 games at a resolution of up to 2.25x. However, the experience is hindered by the Mali GPU from the MediaTek Dimensity 8300 processor. For instance, while playing Mario Golf: Toadstool Tour, Mario disappears when using Vulkan, but shows up when switching to OpenGL. It’s recommended that gamers toggle between Vulkan and OpenGL for optimal play.

    The RG477V also faces challenges with certain Nintendo Switch games and delivers a less-than-stellar experience for PC games via Gamehub due to the Mali GPU. Interestingly, Russ encountered an issue with the Android version of Diablo Immortal, where the controls failed to respond. Despite this, many other Android games run smoothly on the handheld.

    Russ’s comprehensive 43-minute review shares additional crucial details, making it a must-watch for anyone considering the Anbernic RG477V.

    The Anbernic RG477V will be available for purchase starting December 20th, with prices beginning at $219 for the base model featuring 8GB RAM and 128GB of storage. The variant with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage will be priced at $239. After three days, Anbernic will discontinue the $20 discount, raising the prices to $239 and $259, respectively.

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  • Ayaneo’s Pocket Vert: Premium Analogue Pocket Emulation Teaser

    Ayaneo’s Pocket Vert: Premium Analogue Pocket Emulation Teaser

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ayaneo Pocket Vert is a new vertical gaming handheld, following the Pocket DMG.
    2. It features a 3.5-inch IPS display with a high resolution of 1,600 x 1,440 and 615 PPI for an enhanced gaming experience.
    3. The device is made with CNC aluminum housing, indicating premium build quality.
    4. The Pocket Vert may be priced similarly to high-end devices, like the Analogue Pocket, due to its premium materials and design.
    5. While specific pricing and availability details are not yet disclosed, the device is expected to have strong emulation capabilities, exceeding those of previous models.


    Ayaneo has disclosed additional information regarding its upcoming retro gaming handheld. Initially announced in July, the Pocket Vert marks the second vertical gaming device from the company, following the launch of the Pocket DMG last year. Consequently, the Pocket Vert is set to compete with the Retroid Pocket Classic, which currently retails for $134 on Amazon.

    Enhanced Experience

    Ayaneo has emphasized that the Pocket Vert will offer a superior experience compared to its predecessors. The device boasts a 3.5-inch IPS display with an impressive 615 PPI, owing to its native resolution of 1,600 x 1,440. It seems that Ayaneo is utilizing the same display technology as the Analogue Pocket, or at least something quite similar.

    Premium Build Quality

    Additionally, the Pocket Vert is constructed with a CNC aluminum housing, similar to the Anbernic RG477M. Notably, Analogue had released Aluminum Editions of the Pocket last year, which significantly raised its price to $499.99. The presence of diamond-cut shoulder buttons hints that the Pocket Vert might come with a hefty price tag as well.

    From the video shown below, the Pocket Vert appears quite similar to the Analogue Pocket. Sadly, details regarding pricing and availability are still not available. Furthermore, Ayaneo has not specified the chipset that powers the Pocket Vert. However, the indication that the device can emulate Game Boy titles at a 10x resolution suggests it will have more power than the MediaTek Helio G99-supported Pocket Micro or Pocket Micro Classic.

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  • Ayaneo Pocket Air Mini Campaign on Indiegogo Launches October 14

    Ayaneo Pocket Air Mini Campaign on Indiegogo Launches October 14

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo’s Pocket Air Mini, a retro gaming device, is now available for international pre-order through Indiegogo starting October 14, 2025.
    2. The device features a 4.2-inch display, MediaTek Helio G90T processor, and two configurations: 2GB RAM/32GB storage and 3GB RAM/64GB storage.
    3. Connectivity options include a Type-C port, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, and a MicroSD card slot.
    4. The starting price for the base model is $69.99, with limited-time offers before reaching retail prices of $89.99 for the 2GB variant and $99.99 for the 3GB variant.
    5. Subscribers to the product page will receive a free screen protector upon pre-ordering.


    It’s been several weeks since Ayaneo revealed the Pocket Air Mini, which is its latest affordable Android-based retro gaming device. While it has been available for pre-order in China, international customers have not had that opportunity until now.

    Changes in Pre-Order Plans

    Initially, Ayaneo had stated that pre-orders for the Pocket Air Mini would begin in mid-October for customers outside of China. However, the plan has shifted. Instead of using a crowdfunding platform, the handheld will be available for pre-order directly on its website. Recently, Ayaneo updated its strategy and announced that the Pocket Air Mini will now be offered through Indiegogo.

    In an announcement made on their Discord channel, Ayaneo confirmed that the Indiegogo campaign for the Pocket Air Mini will start at 8:00 AM EST on October 14, 2025. It was also mentioned that subscribers to the Pocket Air Mini page will be gifted a free screen protector. To subscribe, users need to go to the official product page and enter their email address in the designated field.

    Specifications and Features

    As previously mentioned, the Pocket Air Mini is set to feature a 4.2-inch display with a 4:3 aspect ratio, resolution of 1280 x 960, and brightness reaching 500 nits. It will be powered by MediaTek’s Helio G90T processor and will come in two configurations: one with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage, and another with 3GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. The device will be available in three colors: Aurora Black, Retro White, and Retro Power.

    For connectivity, Ayaneo includes a Type-C port, Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth 5.0. The Pocket Air Mini will also feature a MicroSD card slot, an audio jack, and a battery with a capacity of 4500mAh. Additionally, it boasts Hall Effect joysticks with RGB lighting, triggers, a cooling fan, and buttons arranged in Nintendo’s ABXY layout. Ayaneo plans to ship the device with a custom interface layered on top of Android 11, which they demoed a few weeks back.

    Pricing Information

    The starting price for the base model of the Pocket Air Mini is set at $69.99 for a limited time. After that, it will increase to $74.99 as the early bird price, before reaching a retail price of $89.99. For the 3GB RAM variant, the limited-time offer price will be $79.99, followed by an early bird price of $84.99, before arriving at a retail price of $99.99. Even at its retail price, the Pocket Air Mini remains the most affordable handheld from Ayaneo ever.

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  • BatleXP Flip: New Pocket Retro Handheld for N64 & PSP Emulation

    BatleXP Flip: New Pocket Retro Handheld for N64 & PSP Emulation

    Key Takeaways

    1. BatleXP has launched a new retro gaming handheld called the BatleXP Flip, inspired by the Anbernic RG34XX SP.
    2. The BatleXP Flip features the Allwinner H700 chipset, 2 GB of LPDDR4 RAM, and a 3,300 mAh battery.
    3. It has a 3.4-inch IPS display with a resolution of 720 x 480 pixels.
    4. The BatleXP Flip is available for $79.99 on Amazon in Black and Indigo colors.
    5. The device shares similar hardware and Linux system with Anbernic handhelds, indicating close competition in the market.


    Earlier this year, BatleXP made its debut in the retro gaming handheld market with the G350, a compact device featuring a 3.5-inch screen powered by the reliable Rockchip RK3326. As it turned out, the G350 has nearly identical hardware to the Anbernic RG35XX Pro. However, one key difference is that the RG35XX Pro comes with Wi-Fi, which the G350 does not have.

    Introduction of BatleXP Flip

    Now, BatleXP is launching a new retro gaming handheld called the BatleXP Flip. As shown in the video by Retro Gaming with Deadfred, the BatleXP Flip is even more similar to Anbernic handhelds than the G350 was. This time, the design takes inspiration from the RG34XX SP, which was introduced in May.

    Hardware and Features

    According to the YouTuber, the BatleXP Flip has the same hardware and Linux system as the Anbernic version. The device’s listing on Amazon highlights features like an Allwinner H700 chipset, 2 GB of LPDDR4 RAM, and a 3,300 mAh battery. It also sports a 3.4-inch IPS display with a resolution of 720 x 480 pixels, although it has a noticeable thick forehead. At present, the BatleXP Flip is available on Amazon for $79.99, with color choices of Black and Indigo.

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  • Anbernic RG476H: Release Details and Launch Offers Revealed

    Anbernic RG476H: Release Details and Launch Offers Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Anbernic RG476H will be available starting at $149.99, with color options in Black, Indigo, and Retro Grey.
    2. Pre-orders begin on September 19 at 10:00 UTC, with a price increase to $164.99 on September 22.
    3. Customers can add a 128 GB or 256 GB microSD card for an additional $15 or $30, respectively.
    4. The RG476H features a 4.7-inch, 960p, 120 Hz IPS display, a Unisoc T820 chipset, 8 GB of LPDDR4x RAM, and a 5,000 mAh battery.
    5. The RG476H combines features from the RG Slide and RG557, positioning it as a compact alternative to the Ayaneo Pocket AIR Mini.


    Anbernic has officially announced the release date and price for its new retro gaming handheld. Just a few days ago, the company released a complete unboxing video, coinciding with Russ from Retro Game Corps sharing his first impressions.

    Pricing Details

    Initially, there were speculations that Anbernic had reduced the price of the RG476H from an initial $174.99. However, the company has not confirmed that this was ever the intended price. Regardless, the official pricing aligns with earlier estimates. The RG476H will be available starting at $149.99, which does not include a microSD card, and comes in Black, Indigo, and Retro Grey color options.

    Availability and Options

    For those interested in storage options, the RG476H can also be purchased with either a 128 GB or 256 GB microSD card for an additional $15 and $30, respectively. Customers can begin ordering the latest handheld from Anbernic on September 19 at 10:00 UTC on the official website. It’s important to note that the prices will increase by $15 to a starting price of $164.99 on September 22 at 10:00 UTC.

    Product Features

    In conclusion, the RG476H brings together features from the RG Slide and RG557 (currently priced at $299 on Amazon) to offer a compact and stylish alternative to the upcoming Ayaneo Pocket AIR Mini. As mentioned before, the RG476H has a 4.7-inch, 960p, and 120 Hz IPS display with a 4:3 aspect ratio. Additionally, it is equipped with a Unisoc T820 chipset, 8 GB of LPDDR4x RAM, and a 5,000 mAh battery. For further information, please visit Anbernic’s website.

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  • Anbernic RG476H Unboxing and Impressions: New Retro Handheld

    Anbernic RG476H Unboxing and Impressions: New Retro Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic’s upcoming RG476H is expected to be priced between $149.99 and $164.99 after a 72-hour early bird offer.
    2. An official unboxing video for the RG476H has been released, indicating that a product launch is imminent.
    3. Pre-orders for the RG476H may begin by the end of this week.
    4. The RG476H is rumored to have good controls, a comfortable design, and a high-quality display, but joystick placement may need improvement.
    5. Emulation performance for Gamecube and PlayStation 2 games is currently not as strong as that of competing handheld devices.


    The upcoming release of Anbernic’s new retro gaming handheld seems to be just around the bend. Officially, Anbernic hasn’t stated when the RG476H will hit the market or what its price will be. Nonetheless, Retro Dodo revealed last week that the starting price for the device is likely to be $149.99, which could go up to $164.99 after a 72-hour early bird offer.

    Unboxing Video Released

    Recently, Anbernic shared an official unboxing video for the RG476H, which we have included below. It is common for the company to release such videos only a few days before launching a product. For instance, Anbernic released a similar video for the RG35XX Pro just three days before its official release (currently priced at $64.99 on Amazon).

    Pre-order Expectations

    Because of this pattern, we believe that pre-orders for the RG476H could open up by the end of this week. In the meantime, Russ from Retro Game Corps has put out a video sharing his first impressions of the RG476H, giving retro handheld enthusiasts an early look at what to expect from Anbernic’s new product.

    Performance Insights

    On one hand, the RG476H is rumored to have good controls, a comfy design, and a top-notch display. On the flip side, the placement of Anbernic’s joysticks could be better. Additionally, the decision to use a full glass front means that the RG476H is likely to attract fingerprints easily. Unfortunately, the emulation performance for Gamecube and PlayStation 2 games isn’t as good as competing handhelds at this time.

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  • Anbernic RG476H: New Premium Gaming Handheld vs Ayaneo Pocket AIR Mini

    Anbernic RG476H: New Premium Gaming Handheld vs Ayaneo Pocket AIR Mini

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic launched the RG477M, powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8300 chipset, featuring a 960p and 120 Hz IPS screen.
    2. The company is shifting focus to the RG476H, confirmed shortly after Ayaneo announced a similar device, the Pocket AIR Mini.
    3. The RG476H will come in three color options and will have a bezel-less screen, akin to the Retroid Pocket 5.
    4. No specifications for the RG476H have been released yet, but it is expected to run on Android.
    5. The RG476H is anticipated to have a display size of around 4.7 inches and performance comparable to the RG Slide or RG557.


    A little over a month ago, Anbernic launched the RG477M. This device is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8300 chipset, the same as in the RG557. It also includes a 960p and 120 Hz IPS screen, which is similar to the one found in the RG Slide (currently priced at $199.99 on Amazon). Although these models are quite new, Anbernic is already hinting at a new retro gaming handheld.

    New Developments

    Anbernic has shifted its focus to the RG476H, confirming its existence just one day after Ayaneo introduced the Pocket AIR Mini, which looks quite alike. Additionally, the MagicX Two48 is coming soon, featuring a design that bears a strong resemblance to the RG477M.

    Awaiting Specs

    As of now, Anbernic is not disclosing any specifications. However, they have mentioned that the RG476H will be available in three color choices and will feature a bezel-less screen, similar to the Retroid Pocket 5. It is likely that more information about this new sub-5-inch gaming console will be shared in the upcoming days. For now, it’s reasonable to guess that the RG476H will operate on Android, boasting approximately a 4.7-inch display and a chipset that matches the performance level of either the RG Slide or RG557.

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  • Affordable Gaming Handheld with IPS Display and Joysticks

    Affordable Gaming Handheld with IPS Display and Joysticks

    Key Takeaways

    1. The gaming handheld market is divided into two types: high-performance devices for modern games and budget-friendly retro emulators like the L35.
    2. The L35, priced under €30, is designed for emulating older games but struggles with more demanding titles like those from the Sony PSP.
    3. It features an RK3326 SoC with four Cortex-A35 cores, which can reach speeds of up to 1.5GHz, but has performance limitations.
    4. The L35 includes two joysticks, a D-pad, action buttons, four shoulder buttons, and a 3.5-inch IPS display.
    5. Additional features of the L35 are a 3,000mAh battery, USB-C charging, an SD card slot, a built-in speaker, and support for ArkOS and EmuELEC operating systems.


    The gaming handheld market is quite extensive and can be split into two main types. One type includes handheld devices that can run modern video games fairly well. An example of this is the Asus ROG Ally X, which we have previously reviewed. The other type is the L35, a retro gaming handheld that you can now find for less than €30 on Aliexpress. While it can’t handle current game releases, it is made to emulate games from various older platforms.

    Performance Considerations

    However, emulating games demands a system on chip (SoC) that offers a specific level of performance. The RK3326, featuring four Cortex-A35 cores that can reach speeds of up to 1.5GHz, does have some limitations in this area. While older systems like different Game Boy versions should run without problems, emulating games from the Sony PSP may present challenges, depending on the game title in question.

    Features and Specifications

    Regardless, this wallet-friendly handheld is equipped with two joysticks, a D-pad, action buttons, and four shoulder buttons in total. The back of the device has a textured finish, and it sports a 3.5-inch IPS display. As is standard, there’s an SD card slot, and it supports both ArkOS and EmuELEC operating systems. A built-in 1-watt speaker is included, along with a battery capacity of 3,000mAh. Finally, the L35 charges via USB-C and also includes a USB OTG port and a standard headphone jack.

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  • Action Pi: Retro Gaming Handheld with Linux Launching in July

    Action Pi: Retro Gaming Handheld with Linux Launching in July

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Helegaly Action Pi retro gaming handheld will be available for purchase starting July 5th at a budget-friendly price of $59.99.
    2. It is powered by an Allwinner A527 ARM SoC with 2 GB of LPDDR4 RAM and a Mali G57 GPU, offering decent performance for gaming.
    3. The device features a 4.02-inch IPS display with a resolution of 960 x 720, providing vibrant colors and high pixel density.
    4. It includes a 5,000 mAh battery for long usage, dual USB-C ports, mini HDMI, microSD, audio jack, and supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity.
    5. The base model comes with 16 GB of EMMC storage and includes a 64 GB microSD card, with a 128 GB microSD option available for an additional $5.


    Helegaly has introduced its Action Pi retro gaming handheld earlier this year. This device runs on the Linux-based Batocera operating system and comes with quite capable internals. The company has now announced that the Action Pi will be available for purchase starting the 5th of July, with a price that is quite budget-friendly.

    Hardware Features

    At the core of the Action Pi is the Allwinner A527 ARM SoC. This is the same chip used in the Cubie A5E SBC and offers decent performance due to its octa-core architecture, which features Cortex-A55 cores running at speeds of up to 2 GHz alongside 2 GB of LPDDR4 RAM. For graphics, it utilizes a Mali G57 integrated GPU.

    Display Quality

    The display is one of the key features of any good handheld. The Action Pi comes with a 4.02-inch IPS screen that has a resolution of 960 x 720, providing an impressive pixel density nearing 300 PPI and vibrant color representation, as noted by Retro Dodo.

    The device also includes a standard set of physical buttons and Hall-effect joysticks. According to reviews, the joysticks perform fairly well, although the L1/R1 trigger buttons are said to be somewhat “narrow,” as also reported by Retro Dodo.

    Battery and Connectivity

    The Action Pi is powered by a 5,000 mAh battery, which should provide several days of use on a single charge, thanks to its efficient internals. It offers a variety of ports, including dual USB-C, mini HDMI, microSD, and an audio jack. For wireless connectivity, it supports both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. The base model, which includes 16 GB of EMMC storage and comes with a 64 GB microSD card, is priced at $59.99, while the 128 GB microSD option is just $5 more.

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