These Retro Handhelds Bring Arcade & Console Gaming to the Masses

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Retro handheld gaming devices have become increasingly popular lately, thanks to cheaper parts like screens and computers. However, there are now so many options that it can be hard to choose the right one. Each system has its strengths and weaknesses, with some focusing on a classic feel and others prioritizing performance. With hundreds of choices available, we’ve picked five of the best. We’ve chosen one standout device from five leading companies and are presenting them without ranking them in any specific order.

1) Ayaneo Pocket Air Mini

The Ayaneo Pocket Air Mini is a budget-friendly handheld gaming device that can play classic games from the late 90s and earlier. It’s small enough to fit in your pocket and features a comfortable 4.2-inch screen and controls. Currently, it’s only available to pre-order through an Indiegogo campaign. Despite being affordable, it’s surprisingly feature-rich, making it a great option for retro gaming fans. The price is around $70 to $80, depending on the specific model, and varies slightly due to exchange rates as it’s produced and sold in Hong Kong.

2) ModRetro Chromatic

The ModRetro Chromatic is a modern take on the classic Nintendo Game Boy, often considered the best handheld gaming system ever made. Unlike earlier models, it features a stylish metal case and can play both original Game Boy and Game Boy Color games. It captures the look and feel of the Game Boy Color while adding modern improvements, and even includes a new version of Tetris. It plays any game cartridge from either system perfectly and is a top contender among today’s handhelds. It’s available for $199.99 in a range of colors.

3) TRIMUI Brick

The TRIMUI Brick is a portable gaming device that gives off classic Game Boy vibes, but with modern technology. It’s small enough to fit in your pocket and has plenty of buttons to play almost any game from the pre-2000s era. It’s surprisingly good at running games from consoles like the N64, Dreamcast, and PlayStation. The controls are laid out like a Super Nintendo controller, with shoulder buttons on the back and four face buttons. You can even customize the shoulder buttons! Despite its size, it’s powerful enough for long gaming sessions. TRIMUI sells the Brick starting around $75, with the price varying based on how much storage you choose.

4) Retroid Pocket Flip 2

Nintendo has a long history of creating popular flip-style handheld gaming devices, starting with the Game & Watch back in the 1980s and continuing with the Game Boy Advance SP. If you enjoyed that classic design, the Retroid Pocket Flip 2 is a great choice. It features a large, vibrant 5.5-inch AMOLED screen and can play a wide variety of games. This updated model is a step up from previous versions, bringing many beloved titles back to portable play. It has 8 GB of RAM, which is plenty for most retro games, though it’s a bit expensive, costing between $180 and $210 depending on the configuration.

5) ANBERNIC RG477M

The ANBERNIC RG477M might not have the most exciting name, but it’s a well-built and powerful retro handheld gaming device with a stunning display. Featuring a 4.7-inch screen, 12 GB of RAM, and comfortable controls, it’s a great all-in-one solution for retro gaming fans. It can smoothly play games from the early 2000s and before, and its durable metal casing offers good protection. The main drawback is the price, which starts around $260 and varies depending on customizable options like RAM and color. Though made in China, you can easily buy it from US-based sellers.

Do you already have one of these, or are you thinking of getting one? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the discussion on the ComicBook Forum!

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2026-01-01 19:17