Welcome to the latest edition of Retro Handhelds Weekly. This week saw a bunch of news in both the world of hardware and software, our writing team continues to be on an absolute tear, and there’s even a surprise or two sprinkled in! So sit back, grab a cup of coffee, and catch up on what’s happened this week in the world of Retro Handhelds.
Hardware
If there’s one thing we know about retro handhelds, it’s that there is always something new around the corner. Seriously, it’s “worse” than smartphones, as some companies release new handhelds every other week. On the bright side, at least there’s no shortage of options.
Retroid Pocket 5
A week after teasing and announcing the Pocket Mini, the Retroid Pocket 5 was officially revealed. Since the initial teasers, Retroid has been trickling out bits of information, including the different color options, screen details, and much more. Check out our Retroid Pocket 5 roundup here.
MagicX XU Mini M Isn’t Using the RK3562 After All
Recently, sleuths on the Retro Handhelds Discord found that the XU Mini M is actually powered by the RK3326. What makes this problematic is that it was sold as relying on the previously unused RK3562. As it turns out, the “RK3562” is really just an overclocked version of the RK3326.
EmuDeck is Making a Retro Emulation Console
On the Indiegogo page created for the project, dragoonDorise has shared their ambitions of creating two iterations of an entire Linux-based console powered by Bazzite, the custom OS for the Steam Deck, and a separate docking station that can add more graphical power to the base unit.
AYANEO Kun and Next Lite at Best Buy
AYANEO is selling the Kun and Next Lite at Best Buy! Pretty wild. The Kun is already on sale. 🤔
Kun: https://t.co/NT2aOPbpRV
Next Lite: https://t.co/5kObcrBQM4
(aff links) pic.twitter.com/UCIFNy14Dr— Retro Handhelds (@RetroHandhelds) August 31, 2024
Although we’re looking forward to the release of the Pocket DMG, Micro, and Pocket EVO, Ayaneo is in the headlines for a different reason. Both the Ayaneo Next Lite and Ayaneo Kun are now available for purchase from Best Buy. Making things even better, the Kun is already on sale for $200 off.
MSI Claw 8 AI+ Spec Update
One of the more highly-anticipated Windows handhelds slated to arrive this year is the MSI Claw 8 AI+. Thanks to a recent leak, we now have more information about the device. Along with the Intel Core Ultra 200V, the Claw 8 AI+ will offer two Thunderbolt 4 ports, an M.2 2280 SSD, and a larger 8-inch 120Hz display.
Other Hardware News
- Get Ready! The Powkiddy RGB10X is Just Around the Corner!
- Taki MiSTER
- Nintendo ends New 3DS repair support
Software and Custom Firmware
Don’t get me wrong, hardware is definitely fun and exciting to talk about. But what good is an awesome handheld if it doesn’t even work? That’s where software and custom firmware come into play, so here’s everything you might’ve missed this week.
muOS 2405.3 Cool Beans: Roll On Edition
BEANS
Almost every one who is working on muOS has been really pushing it to the limit. This will most likely be the last Cool Beans version before we move to Banana (about fucking time right?)… We’ve got so much new stuff within the past week it’s insane what we can achieve as a community CFW. This is looking better and better for an October launch, so I’m pretty excited. For those who read these little messages there is a theme competition coming up in the next week or so for the new default Banana theme, so keep a look out!
Bazzite Gets a Keyboard-Less Installation Update
Epic Games via Junk-Store on Lenovo Legion Go running Bazzite
Bazzite is a must-have for pretty much anyone who wants to turn their Windows handhelds into a Steam Deck. However, one of the bigger annoyances with the installation process is that you needed a keyboard to get Bazzite installed. Thankfully, the Bazzite 3.7.0 update removes that requirement. Instead, you’ll just need to change the default password after you boot into Bazzite.
muOS Theme Library
Are you tired of using Discord to find new themes for your muOS-powered retro handhelds? Well, that’s no longer an issue as there’s a new Theme Library available right on the muOS website. Not only can you download the themes from here, but you’ll also be able to see a preview before making a decision.
From the Writers
While there’s always a lot of news to cover and talk about, we also try to take a step back and give everyone something a bit different to enjoy. These are the more editorial-styled articles that you might have missed over the course of this week.
RH Games: What We’re Playing This Week
There is never only one thing being played, but if I had to say where I’ve spent most of my time this past week, it would be Valfaris: Mecha Therion on PC and Steam Deck. The original game was a 2D action platformer, reminiscent of games like Black Thorne on the SNES.
GotX: Serene September Games Announced!
With the dawn of a new month comes new games for GotX. This month, the pleasure of delivering the news of this month’s games falls to me. The theme is Serene September. The weather is getting cooler, and the kids are going back to school. Why not take a minute to take in the sights and play some serene games?
Pokemon Unbound: The Very Best ROM hack
Unbound feels like a blend of all of those specific feelings. A story-driven game that looks almost edible, paired with the collect-athon nature of catching Pokemon. It scratches the itch for a classic entry in the Pokemon series, while also introducing new features that make it feel modern and exciting. There’s a reason Pokemon Unbound is almost unanimously agreed upon as the best ROM hack, but it should be known: it’s not just a good ROM hack, it may be in the best gaming experiences you’ll have.
How to Change Boot Video on Steam Deck
The Steam Deck is also a fan favorite thanks to the flexibility offered by Linux and SteamOS. Ever since the release of the original Steam Deck, Valve has continued to listen to custom feedback, implementing helpful, useful, and fun changes. One example of this is the ability to customize and change the boot video on your Steam Deck.
Mikhailov & Nefarious Go to Retro World Expo
In the Retro Handheld space, it is always important to remember the origins of the systems we emulate. While the retro game market gets more expensive every year, the Retro World Expo is still a fun trip down memory lane.
A1 Unicorn vs. RG Cube: Which One?
If this entire comparison sounds like me dogging on the ZPG A1 Unicorn that’s because, despite the comparison, the A1 is currently $30 cheaper than the RG Cube. That would be like comparing the RP2S to any of the $70 RK3566 handhelds. It’s a similar idea but with completely different pricing demographics. At the time of writing, the Unicorn is $130 on Aliexpress, while the RG Cube is $160 if you purchase it through the Ampown store or $166 from Anbernic.
My Plea to Powkiddy: A New RGB30
So this is a plea to you Powkiddy, hear us. We the lovers of your 1:1 wonder. Revise the device and address the concerns of users. Maybe a few new colors to push us over the edge? After that, it’s time for a full-on 2.0 system so you can plant their flag as the 1:1 kings with a mix of cool and quirk that we all love so well. You came sooooo close the first time, and I’m confident you’re the one who can get it right.
5 Games With Jobs to Play on Labor Day
Labor Day is a holiday in the USA that celebrates the economic achievements of workers. I thought it could be fun to discuss some retro games that have gameplay of you doing jobs in it. There are so many great options, so join me while I highlight 5 of my favorites. Luckily our Do Your Job June theme for GotM helped me find some good choices.
On the YouTubes
Don’t think that the writers are the only ones getting things done. Over the past week, Mikey gave us his take on the E6 Plus, Zu took us on an excellent deep dive exploring the RG40XXV, and Derek reviews the new Abxylute S9 telescopic controller.
Looking for Deals?
Another week, another set of deals to be had. This week, our favorite deal is for the RG40XX H, as it’s now down to $62, but you can also get the excellent GameSir Galileo G8 Plus for under $60. Plus, there are a bunch of great games available for free from Amazon Prime Gaming.
- Anbernic RG40XX H: $62
- Powkiddy RGB30: $56
- Anbernic RG35XX SP: $49
- Miyoo A30: $33
- TrimUI Smart Pro: $54
- R36S: $38
- Lenovo Legion Go (512GB):
$699$580 at Amazon - GameSir Galileo G8 Plus: $57
- Patriot LX Series 128GB microSD Card (5-Pack):
$36.99$29.99 - Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor, LEGO: The Lord of the Rings, Borderlands 2, and more for FREE from Amazon Prime Gaming
Retro Handhelds Deals of the Week
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