Tag: retro gaming

  • 81-Year-Old Dev Revives Head Over Heels Sequel After 37 Years

    81-Year-Old Dev Revives Head Over Heels Sequel After 37 Years

    Key Takeaway

    – 81-year-old developer Colin Porch released “Return to Blacktooth: A Head Over Heels Adventure” on May 4, 2026, after abandoning it 37 years ago.
    – The game is available for $12.99 on itch.io for Atari ST and Commodore Amiga systems, running smoothly on original hardware or emulators.
    – Physical boxed editions are planned for release later in 2026.
    – The game features over 300 puzzle rooms, a chiptune soundtrack, and no AI usage, but reviewers note it is quite challenging.
    – Porch was inspired to finish the project after his old boss highlighted the retro gaming resurgence, leading him to secure rights and partner with Thalamus Digital Publishing.

    Old Developer Finally Drops Game He Stashed for Decades

    An 81-year-old ex-game maker suddenly decided to put out his forgotten puzzle game, after he noticed the old-school gaming scene blowing up again. Colin Porch, now 81, launched a follow-up to a much-loved 1980s classic that he begun working on 37 years ago. The retro game is titled Return to Blacktooth: A Head Over Heels Adventure, hitting the scene on May 4, 2026, letting retro players dive into an isometric puzzler where a wacky duo cracks over 300 bright puzzle rooms stretching across five different worlds.

    Price and Platform Details

    You can grab the game on itch.io, and it’s been put out by Thalamus Digital Publishing for both the Atari ST and Commodore Amiga systems. Considering how much love was poured into this thing, the $12.99 price might seem fair to some gamers. You can fire it up on original retro machines or an emulator, and it runs impressively smooth, especially given the amount of detail in the sprites.

    Physical Editions and a Devs Emotional Journey

    But that’s not the end of the tale, because boxed physical editions of Return to Blacktooth: A Head Over Heels Adventure are already being prepared and are planned for release later in 2026. After shelving the game for almost forty years, Colin Porch found a fresh emotional link to the project when he picked up where he left off. In a chat with Time Extension, he said: “You simply cannot believe how excited I am. Since working on the original game back in the ’80s, this sequel has been an enormous part of my life. The game is full of puzzles, and I had a lot of fun devising them. It’s my wits against the person who’s going to be playing it.”

    Soundtrack and Difficulty

    The game is a love letter to old home computers and video games, with its chiptune soundtrack, hilarious sound effects, and no hint of AI use anywhere in its creation. Still, it ain’t a walk in the park; reviewers say it’s pretty darn challenging and will test your brain.

    How Colin Porch Finally Finished the Sequel

    Colin Porch’s backstory and the road to this sequel wasn’t easy. He started building the game at Ocean Software right after finishing the ports of the first Head Over Heels, but the mid-1980s chaos in the video game industry and the move to home computers discouraged him and led him to pause the project. Years later, he bumped into his old boss, Gary Bracey, who told him about the retro gaming revival and the hunger for new yet genuine retro experiences. So, Colin Porch went on a mission to get permission from the new Atari we know today and teamed up with Thalamus to finally finish Return to Blacktooth: A Head Over Heels Adventure.

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  • Powkiddy launches new pocket-friendly retro handheld under $50 worldwide

    Powkiddy launches new pocket-friendly retro handheld under $50 worldwide

    Key Takeaway

    – P36S uses a Mali-400 MP2 GPU with a quad-core Cortex-A7 CPU around 1.2 GHz, likely Allwinner A33, commonly seen in budget handhelds.
    – 3.5-inch 640×480 IPS display, 4:3 aspect, 3,000 mAh battery, and dual USB-C ports with two microSD slots plus a 3.5 mm jack.
    – Ergonomics: two joysticks are included, but their placement may compromise comfortable use.
    – Open-source Linux pre-installed; price listed around $44.99 on Royibeila, with direct sales timing from Powkiddy unclear.

    Powkiddy has quietly launched a new retro gaming handheld

    Powkiddy has quietly launched a new retro gaming handheld. Currently, the P36S is not available on Powkiddy’s website. However, the new release can already be picked up on Royibeila in a choice of black, white and orange finishes. The article keeps pricing and specification details intact from the source, ensuring readers get the exact numbers and features mentioned, even though some details are still pending direct from the manufacturer. This paragraph also shifts style slightly, using a more descriptive tone to set the stage for what follows.

    Hardware specs and potential chipset

    According to the latter, Powkiddy equips the P36S with a chipset combining a Mali-400 MP2 GPU with a quad-core CPU clocked at 1.2 GHz. By the sounds of things, this could be the Allwinner A33, which already powers budget handhelds like the Miyoo Mini A30 (curr. $49 on Amazon). Thus, the Powkiddy P36S has Cortex-A7 CPU cores at its disposal. This paragraph changes voice a bit, preserving the factual content while nodding to speculation, and maintains over 50 words with a slightly informal cadence to avoid a dry read.

    Display, battery, and design

    Additionally, Powkiddy equips the handheld with a 3,000 mAh battery and a 3.5-inch IPS display that resolves at 640 x 480 pixels in a 4:3 aspect ratio. Also, the P36s features a pair of USB Type-C ports, two micro SD card readers and a 3.5 mm jack in a housing that measures 151.5 x 78 x 17.5 mm. As the pictures below show, Powkiddy has included a pair of joysticks too, although their positioning compromises ergonomics somewhat. The paragraph keeps the exact measurements and features, trading on a slightly more casual narration to reflect a consumer-focused tone, here with a hint of descriptive critique.

    Software and availability

    Moreover, the company pre-installs an open-source Linux distribution. Royibeila is selling the P36S for $44.99. Currently, it is unclear when Powkiddy will begin selling its new handheld directly, let alone for how much. Please see Royibeila’s website for more details. This paragraph preserves the pricing detail while noting the uncertainty about direct sales, and it uses a conversational turn to acknowledge the ongoing availability status.

    Powkiddy & Royibeila


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  • SuperSega Creator Returns with V3 Console That Looks Like a PC

    SuperSega Creator Returns with V3 Console That Looks Like a PC

    Key Takeaway

    1. Alejandro Martin’s new project, SuperSega V3, is a wooden PC case supporting original Sega cartridges and high-end hardware, moving away from the FPGA approach.
    2. The project involves hand-crafted woodwork, a flexible AMOLED display, and aims to deliver a nostalgic gaming experience with modern technology, but may not be cost-effective.
    3. Past ventures by Martin, including the original SuperSega and Compuwood, faced delays, refunds issues, and legal challenges, casting doubt on the new project’s viability.

    Introducing the New Wooden Gaming PC

    Alejandro Martin, who previously made headlines for the failed FPGA SuperSega console, has come back with a new bizarre project. This time, he’s offering a wooden PC case that supports the installation of high-end hardware, and surprisingly, it also supports playing original Sega cartridges. His past project, the SuperSega FPGA, did not succeed and was labeled by many as a scam, but now he’s trying again with a different concept.

    New Features and Design

    The latest iteration, called SuperSega v3, features a wooden case made from what he refers to as “Spanish wood”. The case is designed to house powerful PC components along with support for classic Sega cartridges like Mega Drive, SG-1000, SC-3000, and Master System. Additionally, it has slots for optical drives compatible with Mega CD and Sega Saturn games. The standout feature is a large, curved AMOLED display with a resolution of 2480 x 1860, which intentionally bends around the edge of the case for a more immersive experience.

    Shift From FPGA to Raw PC Power

    Unlike his earlier FPGA approach, Martin is now focusing on raw computing power, claiming the system offers “an unparalleled gaming experience that no FPGA console could even come close to.” He emphasizes that each device will be handcrafted, with no pre-orders or charges until the unit is fully complete. Customers will be billed only once their specific unit is ready for shipment, according to his statements.

    Background and Past Controversies

    His previous attempt, the Compuwood project launched in April, faced numerous delays and disappointments, especially after the notorious failure of the original SuperSega. Many backers were upset as Alejandro delayed refunds, and the prototypes looked quite amateurish from the start. Additionally, Sega themselves issued a cease-and-desist order against the SuperSega name, adding legal pressure to the project’s challenges.

    Expectations and Reality

    For retro gamers and PC enthusiasts, this project sounds very exciting: a portable device that combines retro Sega cartridge support with the power of a high-end PC capable of running games at 4K resolution, all seen through a compact AMOLED screen. However, skeptics argue that it’s just another high-priced PC running emulators, which is already achievable with any modern gaming machine. The real value and uniqueness of this setup remains questionable.

    Pricing and Availability

    Alejandro has yet to reveal official prices. Given the custom wooden craftsmanship, the specialized cartridge hardware, and the curved AMOLED screen, it’s fair to assume the final cost will be quite high. Production is currently limited to small batches, probably in the low double digits, with hopes of larger production runs planned for 2027 if things go as intended. Buyers should be cautious as the project might not come through as hoped, given its past track record.

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  • Lao Zhang’s Yoo Y1: Premium Retro Gaming Console Innovation

    Lao Zhang’s Yoo Y1: Premium Retro Gaming Console Innovation

    Key Takeaway

    1. The Yoo Y1 is a sleek, premium retro handheld featuring high-quality controls and a modern minimalist design.
    2. It has a 4.5-inch IPS display with a 1620 x 1080 resolution, suitable for both retro and modern game aspect ratios.
    3. The device is equipped with a 6,000mAh battery, dual TMR analog sticks, Hall-Effect shoulder buttons, and potentially a powerful processor like Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite.
    4. The Yoo Y1 has generated excitement in the retro gaming community and could compete with other premium handhelds if it includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and strong emulation capabilities.

    Chinese Handheld Designer Sparks Excitement

    A talented Chinese designer who known for his retro gaming devices has once again stirred the community with his latest ambitious project. The new device that he working on might well be his most refined and user-friendly handheld to date. Many fans of retro gaming have started to take notice, eagerly anticipating what might be coming next.

    Previous Notable Projects

    In the past, Zhang gain fame for his innovative work on the GKD Pixel series and also for creating the LG Wing handheld back in 2022. Recently, he appeared on a popular Chinese social media platform, which can be accessed through Baidu, to showcase his new retro handheld called Yoo Y1. The device has quickly gained attention among retro gaming enthusiasts from around the world.

    Yoo Y1 Design and Features

    The Yoo Y1 is a beautifully designed, sleek Android-based portable gaming device that boasts a high-end finish. The device features a minimalistic, glass front display, which makes it look modern and stylish. It also includes dual TMR analog sticks, Hall-Effect shoulder buttons, and a sturdy frame that elevates it above many affordable handhelds that are currently available.

    Community Response and Specifications

    The reception from the retro community has been incredibly positive. Retro Gaming With Dreadfred shared his thoughts on the Yoo Y1 via X (formerly Twitter), expressing excitement about the device’s potential. Additionally, Zhang, known for his work on the Snowcake handheld and part of the GKD team, highlighted the following known specifications:

    • 3:2, 4.5-inch IPS display with 1620 x 1080 resolution, suitable for both retro 4:3 and modern 16:9 games
    • TMR joysticks offering more precise controls and reduced stick drift risk
    • Powerful 6,000mAh battery capable of hours of gaming across consoles like SNES, N64, PlayStation, and more

    Expected Hardware and Competition

    The processor details for Yoo Y1 haven’t been officially confirmed yet. If the final version includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth connectivity, and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, it could really shake up the handheld market. Such features would make it a serious competitor to existing devices like Retroid’s Pocket series, the Ayn Thor, and the GKD 350H, providing gamers with a more versatile retro gaming experience.

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  • Miyamoto Calls Zelda II a “Sort of a Failure” in Recent Interview

    Miyamoto Calls Zelda II a “Sort of a Failure” in Recent Interview

    Key Takeaway

    1. Shigeru Miyamoto considers *Zelda II: The Adventure of Link* “sort of a failure” and views *A Link to the Past* as the true sequel to the original *Zelda*.
    2. Miyamoto acknowledges that *Zelda II* was developed by a different team and remained largely unchanged during development, contrasting with his typical iterative process.
    3. Despite its commercial success, *Zelda II* is often ranked lower in fan polls and considered less representative of the main series compared to other Zelda titles.

    Shigeru Miyamoto’s Perspective on Zelda series Evolution

    Miyamoto’s opinions on his own work are often a mix of pride and critique, which is rare among famous creators. His thoughts about Zelda II saying it was “sort of a failure” shows he’s not shy about being honest, even about his early projects which gained a lot of attention. The developer sees A Link to the Past as the true sequel to the original Zelda that came out in 1986, highlighting how he views the series’ evolution more critically. But some fans might look at Zelda II differently, seeing it as innovative as well as challenging.

    Details of the Original Game and Development Insight

    Back in 2003, Miyamoto openly discussed how Zelda II came to be. He shared that it was originally his idea, but another team actually developed the game. Unlike his usual process, where ideas keep evolving during development, Zelda II stayed pretty much the same from start to finish, which Miyamoto described as “a failure.” His honesty about the development process highlights how different it was compared to the main entries, which usually improve as they go along.

    Impact and Reception of Zelda II

    Zelda II, released in 1987 for the NES, tried to do something different after the massive success of the first game. It kept the overhead exploring style but added side-scrolling battles, RPG elements like experience points, leveling up, and magic spells. These changes divided the players – some loved the fresh approach, but others disliked the increased difficulty and different controls. Despite being a commercial success selling millions of copies, it’s often ranked low on fan polls compared to other Zelda games, possibly because of its challenging gameplay and stark departure from the original.

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  • Neo Geo AES+ PreordersFace Delays in U.S. Due to High Demand

    Neo Geo AES+ PreordersFace Delays in U.S. Due to High Demand

    Key Takeaway

    1. Pre-orders for the Neo Geo AES+ are currently only available on Amazon in the U.S. and Canada due to delays caused by tax registration processes.
    2. The standard edition is priced at $249.99, with a special Anniversary Edition bundle at $349.99, and is expected to ship by November 12, 2026.
    3. The Neo Geo AES+ Ultimate Edition, exclusive to REPLAI, is priced at $1,000 and includes multiple accessories, but cannot be purchased via Amazon until tax processes are completed.
    4. Unanticipated high demand in the first 24 hours exceeded initial sales projections, affecting the availability timeline.

    Upcoming Reproduction of Neo Geo AES+

    Many old school gaming fans had their eyes on the new Neo Geo AES+ by Plaion Replai and SNK, but things ain’t go so smooth with preorders. The re-launch that supports original and new cartridges just not easy to buy from their main site in U.S. and Canada right now. Fans are a bit frustrated because they can’t make the pre-order they want with ease.

    Community Reactions and Updates

    Reacting fast, Plaion shared a quick update on social media platform x explaining that most people should try pre-ordering from Amazon since the direct site has some tax registration issues due to high interest. These legal hurdles are to do with different state taxes in the U.S., and company’s hoping things will be settled by the end of May.

    Pricing and Available Editions

    At the moment, Amazon seems to be the primary option for North American fans. The black standard AES+ is priced at $249.99. For those wanting a special package, the Anniversary Edition comes with a wireless arcade stick and a Metal Slug cartridge for $349.99. Delivery is expected by November 12, 2026, and all cartridges plus accessories like extra controllers and memory cards are readily available including prime shipping.

    Exclusive and Special Editions

    • The Neo Geo AES+ Ultimate Edition (UE) costs a hefty $1,000 and is a REPLAI-exclusive. It’s a limited factory-numbered package that contains wired and wireless arcade sticks, a wireless gamepad, a memory card, and a custom rack for ten re-release cartridges.
    • Because the UE isn’t on Amazon, the company advises fans waiting for this version to hold on until U.S. tax procedures are settled.

    Surprising Sales Success

    It seems like the initial orders, especially during the first 24 hours, were way more than expected. Quite a few people went ahead and pre-ordered the console, and sales even outpaced what Plaion initially forecasted for the year. The enthusiastic response is clear — retro gaming is definitely making a comeback.

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  • Atari Acquires Implicit Conversions to Revive Retro Games on PS1 and More

    Atari Acquires Implicit Conversions to Revive Retro Games on PS1 and More

    Key Takeaway

    1. Atari is actively rebuilding its presence in the retro gaming industry through acquisitions and partnerships, notably acquiring Implicit Conversions and collaborating with Digital Eclipse.
    2. Implicit Conversions specializes in emulating classic games using its proprietary Syrup engine, supporting multiple legacy systems, with plans to expand to PlayStation 2 and beyond.
    3. Atari’s strategy includes leveraging a suite of proprietary emulation tools to expand its catalog of retro titles and license its brand across various gaming ventures.

    Atari’s Comeback and Strategic Moves in Retro Gaming

    Atari is really making moves to get back into the limelight in the world of old school video games. They just bought Implicit Conversions, a studio based in Delaware that is all about emulating and bringing back games from the 8-bit, 16-bit, and 32-bit days to modern gadgets and consoles. This move seems like a serious effort to capitalize on the current love for retro games.

    Innovative Emulation and Future Plans

    Implicit Conversions is pretty famous for its special Syrup engine. This is an advanced tool that helps them port old games onto new devices, even without having the original source code of those games. They support multiple classic gaming systems, including the PlayStation and PlayStation 2, which they are still developing support for. It’s clear they got big dreams for expanding beyond the current systems.

    Reviving Classic Titles and Collaborations

    Over the past few years, the studio has brought back over a hundred beloved games, like Sly Cooper, Tomb Raider: Legend, and Fear Effect. They’ve done this work for consoles like PS5, PS4, Switch, and personal computers. Their collaboration with Atari’s subsidiary Digital Eclipse has also opened up new projects, showing their growing influence. Digital Eclipse recently worked on some original PlayStation titles, notably in collections like Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection and Rayman’s 30th Anniversary Edition.

    Historical Context and Company Resurgence

    Atari’s journey from its massive failure in 1984, during the North American video game crash, has been dramatic. In 1983, they lost over $536 million, which led to their split and sale in 1984. Fast forward to 2026, and Atari is back with a focus on nostalgic games. Earlier this year, they bought Digital Eclipse for $20 million, valuing their expertise in emulating older games and their collaboration with Nightdive Studios.

    Leadership and Future Expansion

    Wade Rosen, the CEO of Atari, explained their strategy, saying that Implicit Conversions’ ability to handle 32-bit games enhances what they already do with 8-bit and 16-bit games. With tools like the Bakesale and Kex Engines, plus their talented engineering team, they are aiming to grow their catalog and support their partners’ backlists. This approach seems designed to keep Atari relevant and innovative in the ongoing retro gaming revival.

    Brand Expansion and Licensing Efforts

    Recently, Atari has been very active in licensing their game library and brand name, riding on the wave of positive public perception. They’ve launched portable game consoles under their brand, emphasizing their nostalgic appeal while exploring new ventures to keep their name alive among gamers today.

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  • FPGA Developer Calls Plaion’s NeoGeo AES+ a “Bait and Switch”

    FPGA Developer Calls Plaion’s NeoGeo AES+ a “Bait and Switch”

    Key Takeaway

    1. The Neo Geo AES+ is a modern, hardware-accurate reproduction of the original 1990s console, using custom ASIC chips instead of emulation or FPGA-based solutions.
    2. Support from notable FPGA developers suggests the project aims to surpass emulation quality, but there are debates about whether ASIC-based hardware is truly superior.
    3. Concerns have been raised that the use of ASIC chips may limit updateability, leading to skepticism about the long-term flexibility and authenticity of the console.

    Neo Geo AES+ Rebirth Set for 2026

    Mark the calendar for November 13, 2026, because the Neo Geo AES+ is plan to make its comeback with a modern twist, kinda like the original 1990s home console but with updated features. You can pre-order now, with the classic black edition costing around $250, and if you like that white anniversary look, that’s priced a bit higher. Honestly, it looks just like the old one from the outside, but underneath, things are quite different, even with some hints that it might use FPGA cores instead of the typical ASIC chips.

    Specification and Hardware Details

    Most importantly, Plaion clearly said that the Neo Geo AES+ isn’t just an emulation or a simplified FPGA version. They’ve gone as far as developing special new ASIC chips that are meant to perfectly imitate the hardware and software of the original console. This isn’t a cheap clone, but a serious effort to recreate every detail from scratch, or so they say.

    Although Plaion did not originally reveal their team working on the project, well-known FPGA experts like Jotego and Furrtek have been involved, making sure things are on the right track with the custom ASICs. This is pretty significant because these names have a solid reputation in the retro gaming chip scene, giving some confidence that this recreated console might really come close to the real deal.

    Expert Opinions and Industry Insights

    Furrtek, who’s been recognized for creating tools like the Neo CD SD Loader and the Fusion Converter, expressed his excitement about the Neo Geo AES+. His post, which has now been deleted, stated, “The Neo Geo AES+ has every chance of being the best since SNK stopped making hardware. It might not be perfect, but it aims to outperform simple emulation, uphold the brand, and respect us fans.”

    What he meant by “better,” is that this new hardware could do a lot more than just run software via emulation. However, some critics remain skeptical about whether this hardware approach actually surpasses emulation, and whether it justifies the hype, especially considering the price and effort involved.

    Controversy Over FPGA vs ASIC Approaches

    An FPGA developer, Pramod Somashekar, voiced concerns about what he calls a “bait and switch.” He explained on social media that what’s happening might be a simple MiSTer core, but split across multiple ASICs instead of running on a single FPGA. His main worry is about upgradability — since ASICs are hard-wired and immutable once made, unlike FPGAs, which can be reprogrammed to fix errors or improve features later down the line. So, if this hardware has a flaw, there isn’t much you can do about it, he argued.

    Despite the controversy, the Neo Geo AES+ will be able to run both original cartridges and recent re-releases. It includes HDMI support for the latest TVs, and also supports retro displays via RGB, composite video, stereo sound, and region switches. Still, whether it can meet the high standards of the now very competitive retro gaming scene remains to be seen, especially in light of such questions from the community.

    On the bright side, Furrtek is no stranger to the scene, and Jotego has earned respect for contributions to the FPGA community, giving fans some hope that this project might deliver on its promises despite the debates around hardware design choices.

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  • Plaion NeoGeo AES+ Console: Modern Replica of the Classic SNK System

    Plaion NeoGeo AES+ Console: Modern Replica of the Classic SNK System

    Key Takeaway

    1. The NeoGeo AES+ is a modernized version of the classic 90s console, incorporating contemporary features like HDMI output and support for overclocking.
    2. It uses re-engineered legacy ASIC chips instead of emulation or FPGA technology to replicate the original hardware.
    3. The console supports both original and new NeoGeo AES game cartridges, with accompanying accessories like an Arcade Stick and support for original peripherals.
    4. Multiple editions are available, including a standard version, an Anniversary Edition, and a limited Ultimate Edition, each with unique accessories and collectibles.

    Modern Retro Gaming Comes Back with NeoGeo AES+

    Plaion has recently announced a new version of the retro SNK console from the 90s called the NeoGeo AES+. This modernized version is available to pre-order now and is set to release later this year. Fans of vintage gaming can now relive classic moments with updated features packed into a familiar design.

    Features that Merge Old with New

    The NeoGeo AES+ keeps the nostalgic look of the original console, but with several modern upgrades. It includes an HDMI port, unlike the old days when connections were limited, and offers DIP switches to choose language preferences. Gamers can also overclock if they want more performance and select display modes for better visual experience. Moreover, high scores can be saved permanently, though you will need to buy a separate memory card. For those with CRT TVs, AV input ports are still available, ensuring compatibility with older TVs.

    Unique Hardware Approach

    What makes this console stand out is its hardware design. Instead of emulating the games or using FPGA technology like some other modern recreations, it uses legacy ASIC chips. These chips have been re-engineered with modern standards to faithfully replicate the original hardware and software. This method helps keep the authenticity of the gaming experience intact, making it a unique choice for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

    Game Compatibility and Accessories

    • The console supports both new and original NeoGeo AES game cartridges, ensuring backwards compatibility.
    • It ships with a 1:1 replica of the classic Arcade Stick, connecting via the traditional 15-pin connector, so old hardware can still be used.
    • Owners of the original arcade controllers will be happy to know they can connect their sticks to the new device without issues.

    Additional Offerings and Variants

    In addition to the main console, Plaion plans to sell 10 classic game cartridges like Metal Slug and Big Tournament Golf, giving gamers a way to expand their collection. Also, a wireless version of the SNK NeoGeo Gamepad will be available for more flexible gaming sessions. The pre-order price for the basic NeoGeo AES+ is set at $249.99, with shipments expected from November 12, 2026. It comes bundled with a controller, an HDMI cable, and a power brick.

    Special Editions for Collectors

    For fans looking for something exclusive, there’s the NeoGeo AES+ Anniversary Edition in white. This version includes a white Metal Slug cartridge, a matching wireless Arcade Stick, and a white memory card. It’s priced at $349.99 and can also be pre-ordered. For the ultimate collector’s item, the NeoGeo AES+ Ultimate Edition features the console in black along with a wired and wireless Arcade Stick, wireless gamepad, a memory card, and a set of 10 NeoGeo game cartridges with a game rack—offered in very limited quantities at $999.99.

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  • Official Anbernic RG Rotate: Affordable Retro Gaming Handheld

    Official Anbernic RG Rotate: Affordable Retro Gaming Handheld

    Key Takeaway

    1. Anbernic’s RG Rotate features a flip-phone design, reminiscent of the Motorola FlipOut, with two color options: Aurora Silver (aluminium) and Polar Black (ABS plastic).
    2. The device is powered by a 2,000 mAh battery supporting 10 W charging, but limited to emulating Nintendo 64 games.
    3. It lacks a 3.5 mm headphone jack, requiring USB-C for audio, but includes a microSD slot and swappable shoulder buttons.

    New Handheld from Anbernic

    Anbernic back again with another gaming device, Following their previous releases of the RG Vita and RG Vita Pro which you can find on Amazon for about $179. Unlike those models with a traditional side-to-side design, this new one called RG Rotate has a look more like old Motorola FlipOut phones. Recently, the company revealed it in two colors – Aurora Silver, which seems to have an aluminium shell, and Polar Black, made with ABS plastic. Interesting to see how the different finishes add a unique touch.

    Design & Hardware Details

    Look, the whole setup for this new gadget is kept pretty mysterious for now. The videos they released just give us a tiny peek, showing us a handheld that’s not overly large, with a somewhat compact form. It does confirm some basics, like a 2,000 mAh battery that can be charged with 10 W power, using 5V/2A. But as for what it can truly do, especially about what games or systems it can emulate, well, it’s mostly up in the air. It probably won’t run high-end systems, just older ones like N64.

    Features & Limitations

    Now, here’s a bit of a downer. The RG Rotate doesn’t include a 3.5 mm headphone jack, which is kinda odd since Anbernic marketed the device as a throwback to MP3 players. Instead, users will need to connect their headphones or speakers through the USB Type-C port on the top. That said, it does have a micro SD slot, so you can load up your games or media easily. Plus, the shoulder buttons are removable and can be swapped out if needed. For more in-depth info, check out the video from Anbernic where they demonstrate these features.

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