I'm always planning for some random dude on the street to ask if I've heard of some obscure game from the 80s and then pull out a handheld with that game on it. In reality, I play 3 games a year and lose interest in about half of them.
I remember this the very first time I downloaded a “complete” MAME distribution many many years ago. I had the choice of 10,000 games and no idea what to play.
I always appreciate reviewers that do these ' x months later' or '1 year later' follow-up reviews. One reviewer that does it a lot in the tech world is MKBDH for things like phone reviews, and they're always interesting as the technology climate is always changing. I hope Russ does them more often.
Your example of why we still play our Retro games is spot on. It’s the whole reason I picked up your channel as well as the device’s you test and recommend. Great way to capture the community.
Once I got my RG Nano I quickly realized exactly what I wanted it for This is a machine well designed for play-anywhere puzzle games, tried Metroid on it, awful experience, but Tetris, Dr. Mario, Kirby Block Ball, or any of the Picross titles, awesome to play it anywhere Anything that doesn’t require reaction time (Pokémon) like you mentioned, or turn-by-turn based RPG etc are also delightful
I didn't download Mario Brothers picross on the 3ds until I already had an XL and that game is the only game I play in full screen mode rather than original resolution mode because it's too small so I can't imagine playing that game on an original 3DS let alone one of these super tiny things.
@@medmondsr edit: this comment and my first comment where jokes What version on the original Gameboy. Tetris plus has got a good puzzle mode. Tetris deluxe has color and different music plus you can move the pieces faster. Hatris has hats and is kinda like Yoshi.
honestly, given the size and resolution limitations, they should have only had 2 buttons on it and have it be optimized for consoles like NES, GB, GC, Neogeo pocket/color/GG, etc. Even if it has the power to run more, there's really no point. They could have brought the price down using a weaker processor.
Exactly, that's what I use it for. I also have a retro handheld with a VMU shell that I use for those same consoles. Such a shame, it would have been great to have something even smaller.
I like your point about a focused experience. So many retro consoles sell themselves with the pitch that they can hold thousands of games, and that’s a bit overwhelming to me. Granted, I don’t think a single gaming experience was Anbernic’s vision behind the Nano, but it’s a cool way to use it.
I don't mind the thousands of games (more is more end of the day), but there needs to be two things in devices ideally: 1) A Favourites list. So users can trim that down instead of browsing. 2) A game state hardboot option in addition to sleep mode. So tap a power button once instead of long press, it'll take you straight to last session just like you would already have the cartridge in.
Which is why I find it a shame this didn't drop the two face buttons, and becomes more like a gameboy. It's not great for PS1 and up, because they are generally more text heavy. Gameboy suits the square dimension screen far better ⬜. And the games are more simple, designed to curb eye strain on its small screens. By dropping two buttons, they could make the two A and B buttons much larger and thus more comfortable in the hands.
Found exactly what you did with use case. Playing jrpgs from gb/gbc/gba one at a time, playing mostly one handed, is amazing. It lived in my pocket as I leave the house and I play on my commute, then leave it in my pocket all day. I own multiple other devices but the ease of not having to faff around with larger devices in my heavy work bag and dealing with cases etc while changing trains makes a huge difference. I've played more with my nano than any of my other devices
Imho, this and the Funkey S are exactly what the FKS team went for: everyday carry micro console for 5-10 minutes short bursts of gameplay. That's it. Yes, you can play for longer sessions on one hand, but that's not really the point: battery life is too short, screen size makes you squint after a while, etc. This use case and the screen size also make it so the best libraries are GB, GBC and some GameGear and Neo Geo Pocket Colour games like rpgs, card games or puzzle games there.
6:03 I have a weird comfortability in making the best of the worst kind of situation. Growing up, I didn't exactly have a stable home. My parents would often lose one house or another by not paying the bills/rent, food would be tight sometimes due to only one parent working while the other drank, and just all sorts of stupid shit that probably sounds more depressing than I found it. In some strange way, I just... don't mind it. We once moved into this place which was just... _awful._ One room literally had piss stained on the floors, we had to stain over it, the windows weren't set up properly so when it rained real hard one time water trickled down into the wall paint to create a giant bubble of water next to the power plug, the massive window in the "kitchen" was just this shoddy, poorly-attached thing that went wild whenever wind struck it during a stormy day, we got snowed in heavily because of the location one window and had to have our friendly farming neighbors the Mennonites dig us out with one of their tractor machines and it's just a whole mess of things. _I fucking loved that place._ The first few days we moved in there it was chock full of flies and it was horrible, we had to drink out of cups with straws to prevent them from getting into anything and be careful while eating food, but I just pulled out my Zombie Survival Guide book and flipped through it, sitting in my room which faced the sun during the daylight hours and roasted my room way too much. It was like a vacation for me. Yes, I know that sounds insane, but I really did like it. My family always freaks out over the tiniest things that go wrong in life and I just shrug it off. Like yeah, maybe we'll lose our home again one day and maybe we'll get tossed into some dirt-hole with no heating like we did when we first moved into our childhood home, but we've got blankets, some thermals to wear and a functional car if it gets really bad, so it's all good! Life is messy. Sometimes you just have to stop worrying about it and focus on the solution. Then just... deal with it as it comes. No point in getting stressed out over it, that's just a distraction that chips away years from your life. Wherever I end up, I'm gonna enjoy myself. Or try to.
I bought one and took it on holiday (vacation) with me recently. Was great on the 4-hour flight - I played old GameBoy green-screen games I used to love. On holiday, I didn’t pick it up once, but on the flight back, I played again. It’s a great boredom buster and so small you can leave it in a shirt pocket.
Your videos are really great. It made me get back into retro gaming. I recently bought a Miyoo Mini Plus. I would love to see a video to hear what your favorite retro games are.
i've said it before, itd be great if someone made an os for these sort of hand helds were you essentially load a playlist. where you boot it up and it starts the first game on the list, and then when you finish it you can move onto the next game. not only does this make it a more user friendly experience for adults who dont want to be daunted by choice, but it will make it more practical for if you want to give one of these to a kid who wont necessarily understand all the buttons or the who user interface. this hardware in particular is perfect for kid sized hands.
IT’S ALMOST LIKE THE POKEMON COMAPNY SHOULD MAKE A TINY LITTLE GUY THAT PLAYS ONE OF THE OLD POKEMON GAMES LIKE THE GAME & WATCHES DID FOR MARIO AND ZELDA 😡 Edit: 8:45 oh god my own name jump scare 😳
First, I love these sorts of videos that come back and re-review a product. A lot of reviews are rushed out to get all the hits early and I feel like nuance is missed. Also, especially with hardware, things get worn out and break. And that often isn't noticeable in even the first 6 months of owning a product. Second, too old for Pokemon? I was 27 when I started playing. Ain't nobody too old for nuthin 😅
You know... that logic of it being a "Pokemon Crystal machine" is part of what gets me excited about these retro-design handhelds in general. One of the reasons I was and am so enthusiastic about the Anbernic RG35XX (and specifically its Plus version) is that it can be a fairly reliable PS1 machine. Yes, it's a good all-in-one system and I do like being able to play NES, SNES, maybe even N64 games to some point as well as PSP titles, but more than anything, I wanted one as a PS1 portable emulator. It's why I sought out handhelds and found your original video on the Anbernic RG35XX and it's why I looked up and found the Plus model while hoping to find a more advanced wifi-capable version that thankfully appeared to have fixed most of my small complaints. There is something incredibly satisfying about looking up a piece of hardware for a specific purpose. In Nintendo's case, the little collectible systems (like the Mario one you showed off in the beginning of the video) are mostly just to collect. They're novelties people buy not to play the games, but because they just like having them, but you are right in that there are similarities in *why* people like having them. It's just... _exciting._ Expensive, but exciting.
I really like using the mp3 player on it! I put a good playlist on it, and used the adapter to plug it into my car. For some reason, it sounds better than when I plug my smart phone into it
I'm not really an audiophile so I don't know the exact terminology to use here. It sounded clearer despite using the same files. It was also louder. I'd use my phone at full volume, and I'd adjust the car volume to like level 25 to hear it as loud as I like. With the nano at full volume, I only have to tune my car stereo to like 17 to get the same final volume. @@Duypham-ks5ne
Single use case here as well. I started up Pokémon Trading Card Game 2 in Retroarch (so there's fast-forward) and that's basically all I've been playing on it. Very comfortable to just go in-and-out on a whim. It's nice to just stick to one game, and I'm pretty far in by now. Have had hours of sessions some times too. Form factor is not as detrimental as some would make it out to be.
"Let's face it, I'm just a little bit too old for Pokemon." I can't say that I agree with that sentiment. Anyone I know that played Pokemon as a child has also played them as an adult, and I know many adults that only got into Pokemon after they "grew up." You're never too old to enjoy doing what you love, whatever it may be.
The 280V is a much better option from my perspective. Not saying the Nano is a bad handheld. There are some that can actually play games on the Nano and enjoy it, maybe they have smaller hands. I'd say it's neat for what it is, super portable and etc.
Came here to say the RG280V also. You don't need a case with it and they're plentiful enough to find that I just bought two just in case one breaks (which it won't).
If the RG280V did auto save state on sleep , auto shutdown after 60s of sleep, and auto load state on boot up, I would agree with you. As it stands, that is a small feature that really does a lot to change the way I approach a device. Never have to worry about whether to sleep or shut down. Never pick up the device to find the battery drained because I slept it instead of shutting it all the way down a week ago. I wish every emulation handheld worked like that and I don't understand why they don't.
"He also put it in his mouth- I'm not going to do that" I was so invested in this review that that comment completely caught me off guard and made me laugh.
My Nano's use case is as one of my most used handhelds, if I have to microwave something or I'm waiting during long matchmaking or loading for a game, or stuck out the house waiting. I also have fun with it in longer sessions personally, I find it comfortable for SRPGs like Fire Emblem or FFTA. I saw you have it linked in the description but Drum's CFW also allows fast forward with picoarch cores. It takes a bit to get that stuff set up but it lets you do FFWD pretty well on most systems besides SNES if you wanted to try that out.
I love my RG Nano. Also custom firmware is already available. I’m using DrUm78’s CFW and it’s much better than stock. The biggest improvement IMO is the ability to switch to better and more compatible emulators ie gambatte instead of gnuboy. It does take some work though.
I can see this as a really good single screen style retro arcade machine. Like, Arkanoid, Galaga, maybe Missle Command, OG Mario Bros. Very easy "you got a minute" kind of games
Got it today, such a fun console. Surprised how not overly cramped it feels despite the size and how well most of the games play, though yeah, you have to set expectations on what games you SHOULD play on it. Not everything will work great but for what it is, I'd say it's the best micro console out there.
Rg nano h (horizontal) would sell like crazy even if it kept the same dimensions. Imagine that portability but with space for your fingers. Maybe even move start and select to top center above the screen on the top face.
I came to the same realizations as you with my Miyoo Mini. Sometimes I'd feel like carrying a larger device out, and ultimately not playing it, to be a waste of effort, but something this small, it becomes inconsequential whether you end up playing it or not. The Miyoo Mini isn't durable, but with a soft case just large enough, it's well protected enough. It won't work in pants pockets, but jacket pockets are fine, and if you carry a day bag anyway, that works as well.
Can you elaborate on how the miyoo mini isn't durable? He never mentioned how in the video and can't say I've heard this about the particular handheld. I just throw mine my pocket usually and it's held up fine... So far. Now I'm wondering if it's the wisest choice! 😅
The Fun Key S is basically the same except it’s even faster in and out of the game with opening and closing the lid. I was surprised myself how much I end up playing with this thing, even bursts of 1minute are a thing for me now. It’s amazing!
Came here to say this, and agreed! The funKey is even smaller, and that little moment of satisfaction when you commit to playing it as you open the shell is so satisfying. Same goes for that moment that the shell closes and because it snaps shut it really solidifies the end of the gaming experience each time.
I started somewhat applying that to my RG35XX, decided to just keep GBA and gameboy roms on it since the device is shaped to play mobile and also saw myself enjoying my device unlike before where I just turned it on and doomscrolled through all my systems and didnt really commit to anything. Funny story I gave one of these as a gift preloaded with my same library and the person told me she has been really enjoying the device. All she played in 2 weeks has been pokemon pinball ruby & sapphire, which is what kinda inspired me to clean up my library.
An excellent second look review, thanks for the update! I play mine a lot, yet I also get excellent battery performance…wow! Also, I just installed the DrUm78 CFW, and it boots up in 4 seconds! 😎
Hey Russ, I bought a Nano based on your review. I agree with your revelation that the Nano has a specific use case and it’s really best used for short gaming sessions. I really love it although I wish all the cover art for the games library was present. Perhaps the pending custom firmware options that are coming will address this aesthetic misstep, I certainly hope so.
Oh my God I didn't know that there is some kind of sleep feature by holding down the button. THANK YOU! Will there be another video if there is a better OS out there?
My thoughts are that the good old Trimui Model S still has all these benefits with the addition of a more comfortable form factor, slightly better screen size and shape. It's still tiny enough to forget in your pocket (indeed, it's thinner) and still has the ability to sleep while in a game and wake back to that game or instantly turn off power and resume from last played with X.
Got my funkey s on my car keys. It already has the new funkeyOS on it, which lets you select favorite games, and by pressing start it will only show your favorites to cycle through (and the 60hz is awesome too). Love being able to power it on by just opening it, play my game on my walk up to work, and then shut it to save where I left off. just by the power of these small 30 second sessions, I've been able to beat pokemon red ver, and I'm half way through Crystal right now ^^ They were built for byte sized game sessions.
I think it's more ideal for the simplicity of gameboy or Atari games. So games for 5 minutes on the go (and gameboy games were designed with small experiences in mind).
Loving the Pedro The Lion Shirt! I have exactly that design as a sweatshirt. Bazan is an all time great musician. And you always make great videos! You've helped me out so much. Thanks Russ.
Something you've hit upon that I think is a profound point: being "forced to enjoy" one title was pretty much my relationship with console gaming until I went to university. When I had a game bought for me by my parents, that was *it* for the next few months, whether it was any good or not - so I had to play it. I think across my ownership of a Super NES from the ages of 12 to 17, I owned only eight or nine games...? Whereas now - spoilt bastard that I am - every once in a while I'll log into the Xbox or PlayStation stores and buy eight or nine games at once, download them, and probably never play them. And yet, teenage-me spent *much* more time gaming (we called it "playing", in them days...), and having much more fun, on a fraction of the budget. TL;DR - too much choice is bad.
I love mine. As an adult male, I can hold it fine and see the screen just fine but I’m probably in the minority. It’s great for GBC and GBA games but I just learned about PICO 8 and those games are great to play on this as well!
I agree 100% with you. I bought it knowing it’d be best used for playing GB and GBC games and couldn’t be happier with it. One handed rpgs really are a treat one this.
Russ my man, it’s been a while! :) The single-game focused experience is the reason why I love my FunKey S so much. Also, I’ll personally take the act of closing the screen after a short gaming session over the aluminum build of the RG Nano. ;)
I recently picked up one of these for less than $50, including shipping and tax. And I did exactly what you recommended, it's my pokemon crystal machine. I grew up playing gold. This is my first time playing crystal. I carry this everywhere as it fits perfectly in my small jean pocket. Doctors office, waiting for my wife while in the car, short break at work, etc. This isn't too bad at all and is great for short bursts of game play.
Love mine put custom firmware on it the same day haven't looked back or played on any of my other anbernic, it's small and perfect runs lovely and the sound is very impressive for its size , been playing my way through doom and Pokémon games again
Still not worth the price that is supposedly due to the metal shell (even if the metal mold really cause that much and they not making 2x or higher profit just from the metal shell alone). This thing needs to be data frog priced to be even worth considering. Will you bew reviewing the powkiddy rgb10 max 3 pro?
Really good points here, I totally wouldn't mind simply playing one game at a time on it, just like a Game & Watch! And to always have it somewhere on me, cuz it's totally small enough for that, just like you said yourself! Great re-review :)
Can you make a video on Drum78 Funkey OS installation and the benefits also a walkthrough of obscure systems emulated such as Atari, NeoGeo Pocket, Wonderswan, Pokemini etc
I also really like that it has a sleep timer as well. If I'm playing and fall asleep 😅, it turns off and doesn't kill the battery and lose my progress. You can just stop and return back exactly where you were.
I’m not really into this thing because of the size but I would probably pick one up if they were discounted and I was in the right mood. I think I would just load it up with Gameboy, GBA, and Gamegear stuff. Things that work on a small screen and I would just stick to those 3 or 4 libraries
So pretty much as Russ uses it lol. With my miyoo mini plus I get game ADHD and keep switching games because i can't decide what to play out of the 150ish games I have on there
Great video! I have a Funkey and even though I initially got it for mostly GBA games, it did actually end up becoming the one-game device that you described here. I spend most of time playing Racing Lagoon (PS1 racing RPG) on it and its actually wonderful for jumping right in and out of a single game's world, especially RPGs.
Just got one today for a good price used, and I am loving it ! Sure it's a bit impractical for systems outside of GB/GBC/GG but the fact that it even rus PS1 at all is wild to me. I think you put it best that this works best as a one game system, I'm also trying to play through pokemon crystal on this and the one-handed experience on it is excellent. Only caveat is I wish the battery life was better when playing GB/GBC because 2 hours for PS1 yet only 2.5-3 hours for others systems seems a bit odd, but regardless I'm loving it.
I think a comparison between the RG nano and the RG280V would be nice. Those two are the rugged and small offerings of Anbernic. Also, the RG280V is substantially more resistant than the Miyoo Mini. So that's probably the more natural comparison.
I'll second this motion to do a side by side comparison video of the RG280 and the Nano. I have both and love them both for a small game system to take with me in my pocket
When I had a gameboy, the beauty of it was that when the game cart was in the system, I could turn it on, and it boots me into the game I'm playing straight away. I'm gaming within a few seconds. I think these systems would be handy if they had a hard boot, not just a standby mode (although that is handy too). So the current save state, is saves to the hardware instead of a flash memory cache thing. That way, I can leave it turned off for ages, then boot it up and use it just as before without worrying about battery draining on idle.
I’m kinda glad I didn’t pull the trigger on this right around when I was looking at these Retroid pocket announced the 2S so I went with that instead, I’d still like to grab one tho at a cheaper price point
I wish anbernic had this level of quality in the Rg35xx. I would love an aluminum Rg35xx without those sloped buttons on the back so it sat in the pocket better.
This is something I realized long ago. To many choices makes a person unhappy. You spend so much time choosing, then after a decision is made, you'll doubt yourself, still considering the other options. It's an endless spiral of despair really. I recently picked up an evercade vs, knowing the carts could be hacked easily and customized at will, so I started making small curated selections instead of straight up rom dumps.. it makes me appreciate what I'm playing a whole lot more, and find myself more interested in returning to said game.
The recent sale for $30ish made this a really great value. I pull it out waiting in line at the store or whatever. It's currently my dedicated red version device. GBA is a little miserable on it, so I'm not sure if I'll stick to it or get a GKD pixel down the line, but it's great for all the reasons you mentioned. I got a little keyfob case it fits into right on my keyring and any time I need to kill 2 minutes I've got something right there and ready in my pocket without the bulk/weight of a 405m or RP3+. Honestly the lowered commitment to a serious experience makes it pretty appealing. It's become my go to for those short burst sessions.
These re review videos that you do where find the unique use for these handheld devices are your best videos and I always try watch them over your others. Your personal stories from the viewpoint of a father really fits with us older gamers playing these retro devices. These small devices are great for one handed dad gaming while I hold the baby with my other hand or if I wrap around and hold the baby with two. I am using ambernic to play Pokemon brown version currently in this way.
I absolutely love my RG Nano. It is built really well, the color is great (have the red one as well). I primarily got it as a very small portable music player so I can use my headphones so I don't have to use my phone or tablet, and it does really well with that. I listen to so much music now, though the downside is you have to have the high quality mp3/wav/flac files to transfer over. The bonus that I can play GB/GBC and Neo Geo Pocket (Color) stuff is great too. It is kind of everything I wanted from the FunKey S and more.
Just pulled the trigger on one. I already have a "normal size" emulator (RG351mp) but was looking at something small and pocketable without extra bulk, mainly for playing OG Gameboy/GBC games, including the original Pokemon games. Reminds me of those Nintendo Mini Classics keychains I had as a kid, would be cool if somehow those old game & watch type games could be emulated on this. Update: Nano came in today. Yes, it's really tiny, but it's perfect for what I was going after - playing Gameboy classic and color games as well as Gamegear, Neo Geo. Everything else is pretty much bonus, been playing with it quite a bit today reliving some childhood classics and surprisingly, my hands didn't cramp up - tried RPG, platformer, and even fighting games. More challenging but great little "edc" game device when you want to travel light.
Stock OS is JUNK! DrUm78's custom OS is the way to go. AnberDICK playing hardball not releasing source code to an OPEN SOURCE OS or helping out DrUm78 with his custom OS.
I got Metroid 2 for Christmas when I was 8 years old, I beat it a few days later. Might be a little late for that one, but Metroid 2 sure was amazing on the Super Game Boy. The first thing I did when I got the Super Game Boy for Christmas when I was 11 was use it to play Metroid 2. Still my favorite Metroid.
Considering this is mainly going to play Gameboy and Gameboy advance games it would be really nice if they just had A and B button and used the extra space to make the buttons larger.
They should have went with a gba micro design. It would be slightly larger, more ergonomic, and somewhat more capable of playing platformers and action titles. It's still would be majorly pocketable. Between the RG300X or gba micro size would be ideal.
If you use the emulator on the main OS (not the retroFE) you can enable fast forward. Also, I bought this device to use just as you described in this video and as a result I’ve been actually playing more that I would on my bigger anbernic device
I really like this idea of "one game system", which is why I always like when a handheld has a function to boot run back into the game you were playing. You can just stay on that one game until you beat it (or get tired of it). As for RG Nano, I just wish the screen was a bit bigger and the device was a bit flatter (it's small, but it's chunky), but even as is it's a good way to pass some time here and there.
Agree with you 100%! The Nano is currently my dedicated Mr Driller machine. It’s Always in my pocket even though most days I don’t actually play it. I also love the Feel of the device in my pocket, it’s almost a fidget device - I find myself just pressing the buttons and rubbing my fingers over the ridges on the back of the device inside my pocket. Yes I just realised how suss that sounded! Am I weird?! 😬
The fun irony of all of these retro emulators is that even though we can play thousands of games, the less games we have on them, the more fun we get😅
Managing a huge library geTs kind of exhausting.
I'm always planning for some random dude on the street to ask if I've heard of some obscure game from the 80s and then pull out a handheld with that game on it. In reality, I play 3 games a year and lose interest in about half of them.
Very true!
Lol right, almost like we cant focus and actually play them when you have so many games.
I remember this the very first time I downloaded a “complete” MAME distribution many many years ago. I had the choice of 10,000 games and no idea what to play.
I really enjoy these second look reviews. They add a lot of value and give a real world use case. Love the perspective
I agree.
Custom firmware changes so many of these Chinese handhelds.
I always appreciate reviewers that do these ' x months later' or '1 year later' follow-up reviews. One reviewer that does it a lot in the tech world is MKBDH for things like phone reviews, and they're always interesting as the technology climate is always changing. I hope Russ does them more often.
Id like to see if the 1st gen of these retro consoles still hold up, or if those devices died. The LDK, Pocket Go, RG99..
@@emaheiwa8174
I still have a GP2X, Dingoo a320 & OpenPandora handheld.
I think real world use cases are the most important reviews of all.
Your example of why we still play our Retro games is spot on. It’s the whole reason I picked up your channel as well as the device’s you test and recommend. Great way to capture the community.
Once I got my RG Nano I quickly realized exactly what I wanted it for
This is a machine well designed for play-anywhere puzzle games, tried Metroid on it, awful experience, but Tetris, Dr. Mario, Kirby Block Ball, or any of the Picross titles, awesome to play it anywhere
Anything that doesn’t require reaction time (Pokémon) like you mentioned, or turn-by-turn based RPG etc are also delightful
I didn't download Mario Brothers picross on the 3ds until I already had an XL and that game is the only game I play in full screen mode rather than original resolution mode because it's too small so I can't imagine playing that game on an original 3DS let alone one of these super tiny things.
Oooo Tetris is probably the perfect game for this
@@medmondsr but which version of Tetris that's the question?
@@bland9876 original gameboy 😁
@@medmondsr edit: this comment and my first comment where jokes
What version on the original Gameboy. Tetris plus has got a good puzzle mode. Tetris deluxe has color and different music plus you can move the pieces faster. Hatris has hats and is kinda like Yoshi.
"It's a little bit better than staring at a wall" -RGC quote for the back of the RG Nano box
Love the trip down memory lane with your 'living in mom's basement' Pokemon Crystal story!
Love your videos man.
honestly, given the size and resolution limitations, they should have only had 2 buttons on it and have it be optimized for consoles like NES, GB, GC, Neogeo pocket/color/GG, etc. Even if it has the power to run more, there's really no point. They could have brought the price down using a weaker processor.
True.
Except it was a clone of the *Funkey S.*
Even the 1:1 aspect ratio screen.
This, and a bigger d-pad
Exactly, that's what I use it for. I also have a retro handheld with a VMU shell that I use for those same consoles. Such a shame, it would have been great to have something even smaller.
I was playing policenaut on mine.. I need the extra buttons for it
Absolutely agreed
I like your point about a focused experience. So many retro consoles sell themselves with the pitch that they can hold thousands of games, and that’s a bit overwhelming to me. Granted, I don’t think a single gaming experience was Anbernic’s vision behind the Nano, but it’s a cool way to use it.
Yeah, it's great to have the option to add a bunch of games, but trimming the list to a core five or even one is a great way to do it
My reaction everytime I get a device with 1,000's of games: Oh cool, so many games! Annnnyway, back to SMB3
I don't mind the thousands of games (more is more end of the day), but there needs to be two things in devices ideally:
1) A Favourites list. So users can trim that down instead of browsing.
2) A game state hardboot option in addition to sleep mode. So tap a power button once instead of long press, it'll take you straight to last session just like you would already have the cartridge in.
Huge fan of the idea of curating your experience for each specific device. Not every device needs 1000s of games on it!
Great content as always.
Which is why I find it a shame this didn't drop the two face buttons, and becomes more like a gameboy. It's not great for PS1 and up, because they are generally more text heavy. Gameboy suits the square dimension screen far better ⬜. And the games are more simple, designed to curb eye strain on its small screens. By dropping two buttons, they could make the two A and B buttons much larger and thus more comfortable in the hands.
yup! I have a few handhelds for that reason!
@@godzillagorilla986 pleaase share!!!!
I would love to see companies like Anbernic make console-specific devices like a GB/GBC with the right aspect ratio screen for it and 2 button layout.
Found exactly what you did with use case. Playing jrpgs from gb/gbc/gba one at a time, playing mostly one handed, is amazing. It lived in my pocket as I leave the house and I play on my commute, then leave it in my pocket all day. I own multiple other devices but the ease of not having to faff around with larger devices in my heavy work bag and dealing with cases etc while changing trains makes a huge difference. I've played more with my nano than any of my other devices
Bro you’re the type of guys who is playing with his crootch
Imho, this and the Funkey S are exactly what the FKS team went for: everyday carry micro console for 5-10 minutes short bursts of gameplay. That's it. Yes, you can play for longer sessions on one hand, but that's not really the point: battery life is too short, screen size makes you squint after a while, etc.
This use case and the screen size also make it so the best libraries are GB, GBC and some GameGear and Neo Geo Pocket Colour games like rpgs, card games or puzzle games there.
6:03 I have a weird comfortability in making the best of the worst kind of situation. Growing up, I didn't exactly have a stable home. My parents would often lose one house or another by not paying the bills/rent, food would be tight sometimes due to only one parent working while the other drank, and just all sorts of stupid shit that probably sounds more depressing than I found it.
In some strange way, I just... don't mind it. We once moved into this place which was just... _awful._ One room literally had piss stained on the floors, we had to stain over it, the windows weren't set up properly so when it rained real hard one time water trickled down into the wall paint to create a giant bubble of water next to the power plug, the massive window in the "kitchen" was just this shoddy, poorly-attached thing that went wild whenever wind struck it during a stormy day, we got snowed in heavily because of the location one window and had to have our friendly farming neighbors the Mennonites dig us out with one of their tractor machines and it's just a whole mess of things.
_I fucking loved that place._ The first few days we moved in there it was chock full of flies and it was horrible, we had to drink out of cups with straws to prevent them from getting into anything and be careful while eating food, but I just pulled out my Zombie Survival Guide book and flipped through it, sitting in my room which faced the sun during the daylight hours and roasted my room way too much. It was like a vacation for me.
Yes, I know that sounds insane, but I really did like it. My family always freaks out over the tiniest things that go wrong in life and I just shrug it off. Like yeah, maybe we'll lose our home again one day and maybe we'll get tossed into some dirt-hole with no heating like we did when we first moved into our childhood home, but we've got blankets, some thermals to wear and a functional car if it gets really bad, so it's all good! Life is messy. Sometimes you just have to stop worrying about it and focus on the solution. Then just... deal with it as it comes. No point in getting stressed out over it, that's just a distraction that chips away years from your life. Wherever I end up, I'm gonna enjoy myself. Or try to.
Bro what this is just a video about a retro console not a therapy session
I bought one and took it on holiday (vacation) with me recently. Was great on the 4-hour flight - I played old GameBoy green-screen games I used to love. On holiday, I didn’t pick it up once, but on the flight back, I played again. It’s a great boredom buster and so small you can leave it in a shirt pocket.
Your videos are really great. It made me get back into retro gaming. I recently bought a Miyoo Mini Plus.
I would love to see a video to hear what your favorite retro games are.
i've said it before, itd be great if someone made an os for these sort of hand helds were you essentially load a playlist. where you boot it up and it starts the first game on the list, and then when you finish it you can move onto the next game.
not only does this make it a more user friendly experience for adults who dont want to be daunted by choice, but it will make it more practical for if you want to give one of these to a kid who wont necessarily understand all the buttons or the who user interface. this hardware in particular is perfect for kid sized hands.
You can already make playlists.
IT’S ALMOST LIKE THE POKEMON COMAPNY SHOULD MAKE A TINY LITTLE GUY THAT PLAYS ONE OF THE OLD POKEMON GAMES LIKE THE GAME & WATCHES DID FOR MARIO AND ZELDA 😡
Edit: 8:45 oh god my own name jump scare 😳
First, I love these sorts of videos that come back and re-review a product. A lot of reviews are rushed out to get all the hits early and I feel like nuance is missed. Also, especially with hardware, things get worn out and break. And that often isn't noticeable in even the first 6 months of owning a product.
Second, too old for Pokemon? I was 27 when I started playing. Ain't nobody too old for nuthin 😅
You know... that logic of it being a "Pokemon Crystal machine" is part of what gets me excited about these retro-design handhelds in general. One of the reasons I was and am so enthusiastic about the Anbernic RG35XX (and specifically its Plus version) is that it can be a fairly reliable PS1 machine.
Yes, it's a good all-in-one system and I do like being able to play NES, SNES, maybe even N64 games to some point as well as PSP titles, but more than anything, I wanted one as a PS1 portable emulator. It's why I sought out handhelds and found your original video on the Anbernic RG35XX and it's why I looked up and found the Plus model while hoping to find a more advanced wifi-capable version that thankfully appeared to have fixed most of my small complaints.
There is something incredibly satisfying about looking up a piece of hardware for a specific purpose. In Nintendo's case, the little collectible systems (like the Mario one you showed off in the beginning of the video) are mostly just to collect. They're novelties people buy not to play the games, but because they just like having them, but you are right in that there are similarities in *why* people like having them.
It's just... _exciting._ Expensive, but exciting.
I really like using the mp3 player on it! I put a good playlist on it, and used the adapter to plug it into my car. For some reason, it sounds better than when I plug my smart phone into it
What phone do you have? What connection are you using out of your phone vs anbernic?
Dude, could you describe the sound quality a little bit more, I kinda want to hear your opinion
I have a pixel 6a. I use a type C to aux adapter, and an aux cord into my car stereo. I use the same cord and adapter for the nano @@bipbop3121
I'm not really an audiophile so I don't know the exact terminology to use here. It sounded clearer despite using the same files. It was also louder. I'd use my phone at full volume, and I'd adjust the car volume to like level 25 to hear it as loud as I like. With the nano at full volume, I only have to tune my car stereo to like 17 to get the same final volume. @@Duypham-ks5ne
Single use case here as well. I started up Pokémon Trading Card Game 2 in Retroarch (so there's fast-forward) and that's basically all I've been playing on it. Very comfortable to just go in-and-out on a whim. It's nice to just stick to one game, and I'm pretty far in by now. Have had hours of sessions some times too. Form factor is not as detrimental as some would make it out to be.
"Let's face it, I'm just a little bit too old for Pokemon."
I can't say that I agree with that sentiment. Anyone I know that played Pokemon as a child has also played them as an adult, and I know many adults that only got into Pokemon after they "grew up." You're never too old to enjoy doing what you love, whatever it may be.
The 280V is a much better option from my perspective. Not saying the Nano is a bad handheld. There are some that can actually play games on the Nano and enjoy it, maybe they have smaller hands. I'd say it's neat for what it is, super portable and etc.
Literally all I want is a hardware updated 280V. It's my favorite handheld.
@@ximplex1 That would be nice! One with updated screen resolution and a later Rock Chip. Would have rather had that released instead of the Nano.
@@ximplex1same! Better screen resolution and maybe a bit more power and it would be so so good!
Came here to say the RG280V also. You don't need a case with it and they're plentiful enough to find that I just bought two just in case one breaks (which it won't).
If the RG280V did auto save state on sleep , auto shutdown after 60s of sleep, and auto load state on boot up, I would agree with you. As it stands, that is a small feature that really does a lot to change the way I approach a device. Never have to worry about whether to sleep or shut down. Never pick up the device to find the battery drained because I slept it instead of shutting it all the way down a week ago. I wish every emulation handheld worked like that and I don't understand why they don't.
"He also put it in his mouth- I'm not going to do that" I was so invested in this review that that comment completely caught me off guard and made me laugh.
My Nano's use case is as one of my most used handhelds, if I have to microwave something or I'm waiting during long matchmaking or loading for a game, or stuck out the house waiting. I also have fun with it in longer sessions personally, I find it comfortable for SRPGs like Fire Emblem or FFTA. I saw you have it linked in the description but Drum's CFW also allows fast forward with picoarch cores. It takes a bit to get that stuff set up but it lets you do FFWD pretty well on most systems besides SNES if you wanted to try that out.
I love my RG Nano. Also custom firmware is already available. I’m using DrUm78’s CFW and it’s much better than stock. The biggest improvement IMO is the ability to switch to better and more compatible emulators ie gambatte instead of gnuboy. It does take some work though.
Drum78 software is amazing ain't it
Im using Drum78s Os...how do I save favorites? I press as mentioned in the guide but nothing happens
Is there anyway to hide or get rid of the annoying clock?
@@skycloud4802 yea, just use the CFW I mentioned.
I can see this as a really good single screen style retro arcade machine. Like, Arkanoid, Galaga, maybe Missle Command, OG Mario Bros. Very easy "you got a minute" kind of games
Got it today, such a fun console. Surprised how not overly cramped it feels despite the size and how well most of the games play, though yeah, you have to set expectations on what games you SHOULD play on it. Not everything will work great but for what it is, I'd say it's the best micro console out there.
This "I'm too old for X game franchise" attitude really makes me sad...
Couldn't agree more, I find it ironically paradoxical coming from a retrogaming fan
I have this attached to my work bag and only have gameboy color games on it. Comes in handy and it’s really good for those 20-30 min sessions.
Rg nano h (horizontal) would sell like crazy even if it kept the same dimensions. Imagine that portability but with space for your fingers. Maybe even move start and select to top center above the screen on the top face.
Great idea, an ambernic can make a "V" model of the Nano
Like the Powkiddy Q36?
@@sillyputtyoscar yes like that
@@cesarts4329 The Nano is a vertical model already lol
@@alucard8433 you're right i confused me. A Horizontal vertion Will be interesting
"It's better than staring at the wall"
Alright, I'm sold.
I came to the same realizations as you with my Miyoo Mini. Sometimes I'd feel like carrying a larger device out, and ultimately not playing it, to be a waste of effort, but something this small, it becomes inconsequential whether you end up playing it or not.
The Miyoo Mini isn't durable, but with a soft case just large enough, it's well protected enough. It won't work in pants pockets, but jacket pockets are fine, and if you carry a day bag anyway, that works as well.
Can you elaborate on how the miyoo mini isn't durable? He never mentioned how in the video and can't say I've heard this about the particular handheld.
I just throw mine my pocket usually and it's held up fine... So far. Now I'm wondering if it's the wisest choice! 😅
@@deaderingthe screen can break from a short drop since the screens themselves are old blackberry screens.
The Fun Key S is basically the same except it’s even faster in and out of the game with opening and closing the lid. I was surprised myself how much I end up playing with this thing, even bursts of 1minute are a thing for me now. It’s amazing!
Came here to say this, and agreed! The funKey is even smaller, and that little moment of satisfaction when you commit to playing it as you open the shell is so satisfying. Same goes for that moment that the shell closes and because it snaps shut it really solidifies the end of the gaming experience each time.
Warioware gba machine?
I started somewhat applying that to my RG35XX, decided to just keep GBA and gameboy roms on it since the device is shaped to play mobile and also saw myself enjoying my device unlike before where I just turned it on and doomscrolled through all my systems and didnt really commit to anything.
Funny story I gave one of these as a gift preloaded with my same library and the person told me she has been really enjoying the device. All she played in 2 weeks has been pokemon pinball ruby & sapphire, which is what kinda inspired me to clean up my library.
Thanks for the videos I bought my rp3+ last week super excited
How is it? Thinking about buying one 🤔
Nice! I'd love one of those
Dude. I just love that you have a Pedro the Lion t-shirt.
An excellent second look review, thanks for the update! I play mine a lot, yet I also get excellent battery performance…wow! Also, I just installed the DrUm78 CFW, and it boots up in 4 seconds! 😎
I mapped A and B to the shoulder buttons for 8-bit RPGs and its amazing for one-handed play
@Retro Game Corps
We want to see a size comparison video review between this ANBERNIC Nano and a Powkiddy A66 (Trimui Model S)!
Hey Russ, I bought a Nano based on your review. I agree with your revelation that the Nano has a specific use case and it’s really best used for short gaming sessions. I really love it although I wish all the cover art for the games library was present. Perhaps the pending custom firmware options that are coming will address this aesthetic misstep, I certainly hope so.
Hey Russ, awesome video as always! Are you planning on making a video on the Retroid Pocket 2S soon? :)
Oh my God I didn't know that there is some kind of sleep feature by holding down the button. THANK YOU! Will there be another video if there is a better OS out there?
My thoughts are that the good old Trimui Model S still has all these benefits with the addition of a more comfortable form factor, slightly better screen size and shape. It's still tiny enough to forget in your pocket (indeed, it's thinner) and still has the ability to sleep while in a game and wake back to that game or instantly turn off power and resume from last played with X.
just ordered one, based on this comment.
super slim and with a sleep mode seems perfect
what os are you running on yours?
@@seethruhead7119 minui
Got my funkey s on my car keys. It already has the new funkeyOS on it, which lets you select favorite games, and by pressing start it will only show your favorites to cycle through (and the 60hz is awesome too). Love being able to power it on by just opening it, play my game on my walk up to work, and then shut it to save where I left off. just by the power of these small 30 second sessions, I've been able to beat pokemon red ver, and I'm half way through Crystal right now ^^
They were built for byte sized game sessions.
I'd own one strictly as a collectors item. Too small to be practical but cool to show off.
It's so fun for rpg games and arcade games. It goes back to games so easy. Played so much game watch and gallery on mine.
I think it's more ideal for the simplicity of gameboy or Atari games. So games for 5 minutes on the go (and gameboy games were designed with small experiences in mind).
Loving the Pedro The Lion Shirt! I have exactly that design as a sweatshirt. Bazan is an all time great musician. And you always make great videos! You've helped me out so much. Thanks Russ.
Something you've hit upon that I think is a profound point: being "forced to enjoy" one title was pretty much my relationship with console gaming until I went to university. When I had a game bought for me by my parents, that was *it* for the next few months, whether it was any good or not - so I had to play it. I think across my ownership of a Super NES from the ages of 12 to 17, I owned only eight or nine games...?
Whereas now - spoilt bastard that I am - every once in a while I'll log into the Xbox or PlayStation stores and buy eight or nine games at once, download them, and probably never play them. And yet, teenage-me spent *much* more time gaming (we called it "playing", in them days...), and having much more fun, on a fraction of the budget.
TL;DR - too much choice is bad.
I love mine. As an adult male, I can hold it fine and see the screen just fine but I’m probably in the minority. It’s great for GBC and GBA games but I just learned about PICO 8 and those games are great to play on this as well!
I agree 100% with you. I bought it knowing it’d be best used for playing GB and GBC games and couldn’t be happier with it. One handed rpgs really are a treat one this.
Russ my man, it’s been a while! :) The single-game focused experience is the reason why I love my FunKey S so much. Also, I’ll personally take the act of closing the screen after a short gaming session over the aluminum build of the RG Nano. ;)
I recently picked up one of these for less than $50, including shipping and tax. And I did exactly what you recommended, it's my pokemon crystal machine. I grew up playing gold. This is my first time playing crystal. I carry this everywhere as it fits perfectly in my small jean pocket. Doctors office, waiting for my wife while in the car, short break at work, etc. This isn't too bad at all and is great for short bursts of game play.
I spy a Pedro the Lion shirt, reminding us once again that there's more to Russ than just a keen eye for tech. He's got good taste in music as well!
I loved the quality of this tiny gaming machine !
Love mine put custom firmware on it the same day haven't looked back or played on any of my other anbernic, it's small and perfect runs lovely and the sound is very impressive for its size , been playing my way through doom and Pokémon games again
Still not worth the price that is supposedly due to the metal shell (even if the metal mold really cause that much and they not making 2x or higher profit just from the metal shell alone).
This thing needs to be data frog priced to be even worth considering.
Will you bew reviewing the powkiddy rgb10 max 3 pro?
This is exactly why I like the Miyoo Mini with OnionOS on it. That single game mode is awesome.
"A little bit better than staring at a wall, depending on the situation you're in." Just about the perfect review of the RG Nano!
"it's a little bit better than staring at a wall" 10/10 recommendation
Really good points here, I totally wouldn't mind simply playing one game at a time on it, just like a Game & Watch! And to always have it somewhere on me, cuz it's totally small enough for that, just like you said yourself! Great re-review :)
Can you make a video on Drum78 Funkey OS installation and the benefits also a walkthrough of obscure systems emulated such as Atari, NeoGeo Pocket, Wonderswan, Pokemini etc
I also really like that it has a sleep timer as well. If I'm playing and fall asleep 😅, it turns off and doesn't kill the battery and lose my progress. You can just stop and return back exactly where you were.
First!! Love the videos dude! Got my rg353v coming in the mail today! Can’t wait to try it out! And also, this this is too small 😂
"The RG Nano: I liked it when I forced myself to have fun on it."
Your method doesn't work for Pokemon Crystal as it messes up the RTC. You can only make use of the RTC if you don't use savestates.
I’m not really into this thing because of the size but I would probably pick one up if they were discounted and I was in the right mood. I think I would just load it up with Gameboy, GBA, and Gamegear stuff. Things that work on a small screen and I would just stick to those 3 or 4 libraries
Agreed. I'd get it as a 40 buck novelty at max.
So pretty much as Russ uses it lol. With my miyoo mini plus I get game ADHD and keep switching games because i can't decide what to play out of the 150ish games I have on there
Great video! I have a Funkey and even though I initially got it for mostly GBA games, it did actually end up becoming the one-game device that you described here. I spend most of time playing Racing Lagoon (PS1 racing RPG) on it and its actually wonderful for jumping right in and out of a single game's world, especially RPGs.
Just got one today for a good price used, and I am loving it ! Sure it's a bit impractical for systems outside of GB/GBC/GG but the fact that it even rus PS1 at all is wild to me.
I think you put it best that this works best as a one game system, I'm also trying to play through pokemon crystal on this and the one-handed experience on it is excellent.
Only caveat is I wish the battery life was better when playing GB/GBC because 2 hours for PS1 yet only 2.5-3 hours for others systems seems a bit odd, but regardless I'm loving it.
I think a comparison between the RG nano and the RG280V would be nice. Those two are the rugged and small offerings of Anbernic. Also, the RG280V is substantially more resistant than the Miyoo Mini. So that's probably the more natural comparison.
I'll second this motion to do a side by side comparison video of the RG280 and the Nano. I have both and love them both for a small game system to take with me in my pocket
What are your thoughts about the Funkey S regarding all the points you mentioned? Same as the RG Nano?
Totally respect you for doing a second look
When I had a gameboy, the beauty of it was that when the game cart was in the system, I could turn it on, and it boots me into the game I'm playing straight away. I'm gaming within a few seconds.
I think these systems would be handy if they had a hard boot, not just a standby mode (although that is handy too). So the current save state, is saves to the hardware instead of a flash memory cache thing. That way, I can leave it turned off for ages, then boot it up and use it just as before without worrying about battery draining on idle.
I’m kinda glad I didn’t pull the trigger on this right around when I was looking at these Retroid pocket announced the 2S so I went with that instead, I’d still like to grab one tho at a cheaper price point
I wish anbernic had this level of quality in the Rg35xx. I would love an aluminum Rg35xx without those sloped buttons on the back so it sat in the pocket better.
RG280M, RG350M, RG351M, RG351MP & RG353M.
Anbernic made a lot of metal _horizontal_ handhelds.
@@adamkane7513 You do realize the RG35xx is not a horizontal handheld right?
@@adamkane7513 I want the Rg35xx in metal though
@@alucard8433
Yes, that was my point.
No vertical Anbernic has yet been made with a metal shell...
...apart from infuriatingly small RG Nano.
I would love one of these mini devices in a horizontal for like a mini GBA.
This is something I realized long ago. To many choices makes a person unhappy. You spend so much time choosing, then after a decision is made, you'll doubt yourself, still considering the other options. It's an endless spiral of despair really.
I recently picked up an evercade vs, knowing the carts could be hacked easily and customized at will, so I started making small curated selections instead of straight up rom dumps.. it makes me appreciate what I'm playing a whole lot more, and find myself more interested in returning to said game.
Other handhelds I'm looking forward to:
TJD-T10
Win701
Orange Pi Neo-X86
Orange Pi Neo-ARM
Trimui Smart Pro
PowKiddy X55
The recent sale for $30ish made this a really great value. I pull it out waiting in line at the store or whatever. It's currently my dedicated red version device. GBA is a little miserable on it, so I'm not sure if I'll stick to it or get a GKD pixel down the line, but it's great for all the reasons you mentioned.
I got a little keyfob case it fits into right on my keyring and any time I need to kill 2 minutes I've got something right there and ready in my pocket without the bulk/weight of a 405m or RP3+. Honestly the lowered commitment to a serious experience makes it pretty appealing. It's become my go to for those short burst sessions.
These re review videos that you do where find the unique use for these handheld devices are your best videos and I always try watch them over your others. Your personal stories from the viewpoint of a father really fits with us older gamers playing these retro devices. These small devices are great for one handed dad gaming while I hold the baby with my other hand or if I wrap around and hold the baby with two. I am using ambernic to play Pokemon brown version currently in this way.
Im hoping anbernic makes a plastic version. The rg nano felt heavier in the pocket compared to the miyoo mini, probably from density of the metal.
I absolutely love my RG Nano. It is built really well, the color is great (have the red one as well). I primarily got it as a very small portable music player so I can use my headphones so I don't have to use my phone or tablet, and it does really well with that. I listen to so much music now, though the downside is you have to have the high quality mp3/wav/flac files to transfer over. The bonus that I can play GB/GBC and Neo Geo Pocket (Color) stuff is great too.
It is kind of everything I wanted from the FunKey S and more.
How's the battery life of it as a music player?
I can see the Anbernic guys putting that quote on their website. "A little better than just staring at a wall" - Russ, Retrogamecorps
Pedro the Lion gettin' some love 🤙🤙
I still absolutely love my q36. Just for all those times I've got 20 mins to kill but a 3ds or switch would just be too bulky
Just pulled the trigger on one. I already have a "normal size" emulator (RG351mp) but was looking at something small and pocketable without extra bulk, mainly for playing OG Gameboy/GBC games, including the original Pokemon games. Reminds me of those Nintendo Mini Classics keychains I had as a kid, would be cool if somehow those old game & watch type games could be emulated on this.
Update: Nano came in today. Yes, it's really tiny, but it's perfect for what I was going after - playing Gameboy classic and color games as well as Gamegear, Neo Geo. Everything else is pretty much bonus, been playing with it quite a bit today reliving some childhood classics and surprisingly, my hands didn't cramp up - tried RPG, platformer, and even fighting games. More challenging but great little "edc" game device when you want to travel light.
Stock OS is JUNK! DrUm78's custom OS is the way to go.
AnberDICK playing hardball not releasing source code to an OPEN SOURCE OS or helping out DrUm78 with his custom OS.
Nice that such a cool niche device is getting a 2nd chance to show what its good at and what people should expect from it
I own a Funkey S and this is a good way of doing it! I now have a reason to play mine again.
I got Metroid 2 for Christmas when I was 8 years old, I beat it a few days later. Might be a little late for that one, but Metroid 2 sure was amazing on the Super Game Boy. The first thing I did when I got the Super Game Boy for Christmas when I was 11 was use it to play Metroid 2. Still my favorite Metroid.
I have one and I love it. I hope they make a cheaper plastic version though. I figured it’s be better durability wise.
I kinda want this handheld in a horizontal rendition. I feel like it would still be usable one handed but make the 2 handed experience far comfier
Considering this is mainly going to play Gameboy and Gameboy advance games it would be really nice if they just had A and B button and used the extra space to make the buttons larger.
I had the same revelation about my Miyoo Mini now that I have the Miyoo Mini Plus. I just use the little one strictly for Pokemon Crystal as well 😂
They should have went with a gba micro design. It would be slightly larger, more ergonomic, and somewhat more capable of playing platformers and action titles. It's still would be majorly pocketable. Between the RG300X or gba micro size would be ideal.
The limiting of your attention to a single or handful of games is what I also like about bringing the Evercade and just one cart with me...
If you use the emulator on the main OS (not the retroFE) you can enable fast forward. Also, I bought this device to use just as you described in this video and as a result I’ve been actually playing more that I would on my bigger anbernic device
I really like this idea of "one game system", which is why I always like when a handheld has a function to boot run back into the game you were playing. You can just stay on that one game until you beat it (or get tired of it). As for RG Nano, I just wish the screen was a bit bigger and the device was a bit flatter (it's small, but it's chunky), but even as is it's a good way to pass some time here and there.
Same, my Miyoo Mini+ is essentially a Golden Sun machine at the moment
“It’s better than staring at a wall” man you’re really selling me 😂
I know you follow that up saying it’s hard to recommend, it just made me lol.
"Better than staring at the wall" hopefully ends up as a marketing promotion quote. 😂
If this thing was like 30 bucks. This would be a no brainer.
I wanna say that I got it for 28 bucks and I love it
$32 most recent sale $35 with taxes. Got to me in 4 days. I like it.
W
Agree with you 100%! The Nano is currently my dedicated Mr Driller machine. It’s Always in my pocket even though most days I don’t actually play it. I also love the Feel of the device in my pocket, it’s almost a fidget device - I find myself just pressing the buttons and rubbing my fingers over the ridges on the back of the device inside my pocket. Yes I just realised how suss that sounded! Am I weird?! 😬
I swear it's the same for me, I always carry my 3ds cuz it feels good in my pocket.