Tag: retro gaming

  • 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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  • Anbernic RG34XX Handheld Refresh Leaks Amid RG34XX SP Rumors

    Anbernic RG34XX Handheld Refresh Leaks Amid RG34XX SP Rumors

    Anbernic has not brought out any new gaming handhelds this year, after previously releasing at least one new model each month in 2024. This time, the company has chosen to refresh the RG34XX by offering a Glacier color option (currently priced at $89.99 on Amazon), which is different from the color of the Game Boy Advance (GBA) that shares the same name.

    Exciting Rumors Surrounding RG34XX SP

    Recently, there have been whispers about Anbernic potentially expanding their RG34XX lineup with a new model called the RG34XX SP. This device might be one of several new clamshell gaming handhelds set to launch this year, alongside others like the Miyoo Flip V2 and the Retroid Pocket Flip 2. It’s possible that Anbernic will revisit the RG34XX before they introduce a completely new device to the market.

    New Color Options in the Works

    YouTuber Retro Gaming With Deadfred has shared that Anbernic is working on a new range of translucent colors for its Game Boy Advance-inspired handheld. Retro Handhelds has pointed out that one of these new colors looks similar to Nintendo’s Fuschia version of the GBA, which came out in April 2001. On the other hand, the turquoise option does not mimic any official Nintendo design; it seems to take cues from a glow-in-the-dark customized shell. However, there’s no indication that Anbernic’s version will glow in the dark as well.

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    Anbernic RG34XX Handheld Refresh Leaks Amid RG34XX SP RumorsAnbernic RG34XX Handheld Refresh Leaks Amid RG34XX SP Rumors
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  • R36H: Affordable Gaming Handheld with Dual Memory Card Slots

    R36H: Affordable Gaming Handheld with Dual Memory Card Slots

    The R36H marks a new player in the handheld gaming market. While its performance is somewhat limited, it is ideal for playing retro games from systems like the Nintendo Entertainment System, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS, PlayStation One, and PlayStation Portable. Like many portable retro consoles, the R36H operates on a modified version of Linux, which comes with a user-friendly interface. Additionally, it’s compatible with ArkOS.

    Technical Specs

    At its core, the device uses a Rockchip RK3566 SoC that features four Cortex-A53 cores, capable of reaching speeds up to 1.8 GHz. There are two memory card slots: the first is typically for the operating system, while the second is for extra game storage. Finding retro games online is usually straightforward, but downloading them can be tricky legally.

    User Experience

    The R36H includes all the necessary controls, such as two analog sticks, a D-pad, action buttons, and four shoulder buttons. Its 3.5-inch screen has a resolution of 640 x 480, providing a 4:3 aspect ratio. It charges through a USB-C port, and its replaceable 3,000 mAh battery can last up to 5 hours on a single charge. There’s also a second USB-C port that supports OTG functionality. Currently, the device can be imported for around $35, a significant discount from its suggested retail price of $95. However, be cautious, as shipping fees and potential taxes may apply.

    Where to Buy

    You can find the R36H on platforms like AliExpress, where it is available at an attractive price. Keep in mind that while the price is low, additional costs for shipping and duties might increase the final amount.

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    R36H: Affordable Gaming Handheld with Dual Memory Card SlotsR36H: Affordable Gaming Handheld with Dual Memory Card Slots

     

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  • Sipeed Tang Console: Play SNES & Sega Mega Drive for $69

    Sipeed Tang Console: Play SNES & Sega Mega Drive for $69

    Sipeed has unveiled its new field-programmable gate array (FPGA) development board, the Tang Console, following less than a year since their previous FPGA announcement. This board comes just after the launch of the SuperStation One, and it is designed to run games from classic consoles like the Commodore Amiga, Game Boy, NES, SNES, and Sega Mega Drive without needing software emulation, all thanks to its dedicated FPGA cores.

    Upcoming Features

    Sipeed has also indicated that they plan to add FPGA cores for MSX, NeoGeo, and even PlayStation 1 to the Tang Console. In a tribute to vintage gaming, the console will be housed in an acrylic case that will cover its 65 x 56 mm board. At present, Sipeed is offering two versions of the Tang Console, featuring 60k and 128k Look-Up Tables (LUTs).

    Connectivity and Pricing

    According to Sipeed, both models will support PCIe Gen 3, along with two GPIO headers and a mix of USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports. This setup is compatible with wired controllers such as the 8BitDo Ultimate, which is currently priced at $19.99 on Amazon, along with a variety of other I/O options. Pre-orders are expected to start shipping by the end of March, with introductory prices set at $69 for the 60k version and $99 for the 128k variant. For more information, check out Sipeed’s official website.

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    Sipeed Tang Console: Play SNES & Sega Mega Drive for $69Sipeed Tang Console: Play SNES & Sega Mega Drive for $69
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  • Sjgam M20 Pro: Retro Gaming Handheld with 7-Inch Display and Dock

    Sjgam M20 Pro: Retro Gaming Handheld with 7-Inch Display and Dock

    Handheld gaming consoles have become increasingly popular recently, with many new devices entering the market. Retro Handhelds has now introduced the Sjgam M20 Pro. This device boasts a sizeable 7-inch display, detachable controllers, and the ability to run over 30 emulators. However, it raises concerns about whether it can truly stand out in such a competitive arena, particularly given its design closely resembles that of Nintendo’s iconic handheld, the Switch—whose sequel has just been officially announced. This isn’t the first instance of Sjgam using a design that lacks originality; last year’s M21 had similar issues.

    Display and Performance Details

    The console is equipped with a 7-inch IPS display that offers a resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels. While the screen size is quite impressive for a handheld gadget, the resolution seems a bit outdated when compared to current options. It runs on the Rockchip RK3566, which is a cost-effective quad-core ARM Cortex-A55 processor, along with a Mali-G52 GPU. This setup should adequately handle older games, but performance may decline with more resource-intensive emulators like PSP and N64.

    Memory and Operating System

    The M20 Pro comes with 4GB of DDR4 RAM and allows for expandable storage of up to 128GB through a TF card slot. However, the base model is limited to just 8GB of internal storage. Operating on the Linux-based EmuELEC 4.3 system, this device is compatible with more than 30 emulators, including popular systems like PS1, PSP, and N64.

    Design and Accessories

    As previously mentioned, the M20 Pro looks very similar to the Nintendo Switch, featuring detachable controllers and a dock that allows for TV output via HDMI. The package also includes light guns and extra gamepads that closely resemble Sony’s PS5 DualSense controller. However, the build quality and durability of these accessories may raise concerns, and their effectiveness could vary based on personal preferences. Additionally, the handheld is powered by a 4000mAh battery.

    In conclusion, while the M20 Pro provides acceptable emulator support and accessory options, its outdated hardware and lack of unique features might restrict its attractiveness. For retro gaming enthusiasts on a budget, it could be a practical option, but overall, it may find it challenging to stand out in a market that is becoming increasingly crowded.

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    Sjgam M20 Pro: Retro Gaming Handheld with 7-Inch Display and DockSjgam M20 Pro: Retro Gaming Handheld with 7-Inch Display and Dock
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