Dude, I haven't been this excited about a handheld release since... well, maybe ever. I love all the Nintendoesque designs, but this is just one of those "FINALLY" type things. I honestly would have been pleased with 6 face buttons and a sega d-pad on just about anything. Making it look like a Sega product was something I didn't know I needed.
I hope this one sells well enough for them to consider returning to the form factor in the future, although obviously any future one would need to be more powerful and then they'd have the issue of how to fit sticks without compromising the overall comfort of the device.
I love that you are using the Sonic CD intro for your sound test! That was my go-to when I worked on bluetooth headphone support for JELOS and it's completely ingrained into my brain now.
When this much time is spent going through the intricacies of the d-pad alone, that merits a like an subscribe all on its own. Amazing review all around.
Russ is nothing if not thorough. And his testing methods and criteria are actually things I'm starting to use personally when deciding on whether I like D-Pads or not. Things like the Contra test, the Hadouken and Shoryuken tests... Dude is legitimately setting new standards for hardware reviews.
Can we pause for a second and acknowledge again that Russ is bar none the best handheld reviewer? He bought a Saturn controller on eBay JUST for this review! The professionalism and dedication on this channel is nuts. I actually think this (Linux model) might be a perfect handheld to curate and give to a kid with its simpler dpad only input and the sturdy build quality.
Yeah but did he measure the delta E and white point of the screen? No? What a shill. (/s) Sorry, inside joke because one unhinged commentator expects these handhelds to be something they're not.
If I were to purchase a device like this, ie with no analog stick, I would have no expectations for anything past Gen5. This device looks promising for playing anything pre-Gen6. Nice video, as usual Russ.
This is a very impressive device - ALMOST as impressive as turning around such an excellent video in such a short amount of time. Thank you so much for putting this together!!
I really wish they had copied the buttons from the Sega Nomad. That's genuinely what I played all my genesis games on the most. That being said: I appreciate that you really deep dive into the feel of the buttons and the D-Pad!!! It's so important, and most people skip that in their reviews, and simply explain how the buttons feel in a vacuum.
Just finished watching your video and I'm truly impressed by the depth and clarity of the information presented. Your ability to review the product in such an engaging way is a rare find on TH-cam. Honestly, this channel is incredibly underrated and deserves much more recognition for the quality content you're producing!
Super cool to see a Sega style d-pad and 6 button layout on one of these handhelds, hopefully it's a sign of more to come in the future. Would love to see one with dual thumbsticks as well.
Cheers Russ, quality review as usual. I wasn't expecting to be excited about this one but it nails a 'Super Game Gear' vibe that I find really appealing. Nice to see the return of the 4 inch screen in an affordable device too. It's another don't need but do want device. Good job Anbernic.
Man, with all these emulation handhelds I bought I really don't need another one. But the SEGA nostalgia and the layout are just screaming "BUY ME!" with this one.
Really glad to see something like this that finally doesn't have analogue sticks. The market is flooded with horizontal form factor devices that are really uncomfortable to play due to the analogue sticks getting in the way
I agree, we have options like Odin 2 that will emulate everything and need both dpad and analog, but for 4:3 older systems I do not think we need it, RP2S for example would benefit for not having analogs.
Thanks for the review Russ! I'm very interested in picking this up. I bought an RG35XX and a Steam Deck, largely on your recommendation and they both served me well, but I was recently diagnosed with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, and those two are too small and too large respectively. This seems to have similar size and ergonomics to modern controllers which I can still use since they're actually designed for human hands. Edit: Made the purchase, we'll see how it works out in a month!
FYI, this is smaller than the Steam Deck… so I would think if the grips on the Deck aggravate your Carpal Tunnel then this won’t be better. The Lenovo Legion Go has pretty deep grips though.
A lot of good things about this device. Thanks for covering it so completely! I feel like I'm going to enjoy this one a lot as a big SEGA fan. This seems like a great excuse to try out a few Saturn games that I haven't played much.
This is simply the BEST review for this handheld available in TH-cam and I've already made my descision without any shade of doubt. Thanks a lot for your work, buddy!
Thank you for mentioning Anbernic's hostile approach to the community. I know, most people who will be buying this device will not care and just use what came with the device, so I appreciate you mentioning it as it has ramifications on how well the device will still be into the future. They make some of the best hardware at great price-points, and that makes it all the more frustrating that they do not want to co-operate with the developers whose code they stole to make their hacked-together OS.
Well said, I agree and support the developers' decisions, making a custom firmware/OS is no easy feat, the devs deserve to have their work recognized and not shamelessly copied for a quick buck. 😔 Hopefully Powkiddy and other handheld manufacturers don't take the same hostile approach. 🤞
Good review! This seems like a better Sega Nomad! 😄 I do love the Genesis/Saturn pad, so I might think about getting this device down the line. Though, I probably will wait until (or if) the Saturn emulation might potentially improve. I would love to be able to play Saturn games perfectly on a handheld like this one.
i get some much joy from each review you do russ. I'm not even in the market for new handhelds, but the reviews you do really make me feel like I've experienced them too.
They could of went with a Unisoc T610 to make Sega Saturn more playable and just had two colors or even one color(Black) for the $89 price point. I don't see the target demographic wanting those transparent colors and it seems like it was an attempt to make cheaper kid versions. Perhaps one day they will release an ARC+ or an ARC 2 with proper Sega Saturn support.
6:36 - Hey just a heads up, there were quite a few different revisions of the 3 button genesis pad, and one of the changes was the dpad. I mention that because anyone who had a model 1 genesis is probably going to be confused by the way that dpad looks. I like to collect controllers so saturn rereleaes and updates come up a lot. There was a ps2 release which is highly sought after but I think the 8bitdo md30 nails it and makes some nice changes to then original design. If you like those controllers retrobit has their big6 controller which is very good and they have preorders for a saturn controller with dual analog and 4 shoulder buttons that I personally have been waiting to come out for about 5 years now.
@@RetroGameCorps You're welcome. Segaretro has a lot of good info about the controller variations. Also, just give into the collection need. :) :D I love to collect them because it's the most hands on physical aspect you get with old games and there are great adapters like the Bliss-box that will easily let you use them with modern computers or emulators. And they're a lot easier to collect and you can keep them in a bin. :) Well, they are until you start collecting arcade sticks anyway.
I'm waiting excitedly for those new Snapdragon chips coming out in December that are dedicated for handhelds. Hoping Anbernic does something similar to the RG405M but with the new chips
Thanks for coming at this as a Sega fan. A lot of reviews are from the Nintendont side of things and seem to downplay a lot of the positives of this device.
At first I was keen on getting the JPN Saturn colorway, but the black Genesis version is the one I’m getting - complete nostalgia overload. It’s a shame Anbernic went a weaker cheap set (mid Saturn performance 😭), but this is one I’ll still add to my collection.
Hi there, did you receive it yet? Are you enjoying it? As with most things I'm seeing lots of different opinions on Saturn performance out there and that's really the only reason I'm interested in this.
This is incredible. I was thinking/hoping just 2 days ago that one of these retro handheld companies would release a handheld with a Genesis-style button layout!!
Just finished watching the entire video and I'm so torn. I thought this was going to be the perfect system, since the MD/Genesis were my first systems (had both for reasons), and the Saturn too. But not being able to play Saturn games that well is a buzz kill, so I'll just have to hold out a bit more for the ARC 2. Awesome review as always (during the early bird campaign no less), thanks!
I was torn because of the same. Adding on top of that the fact it doesn't have a hall stick on the lower right for tate mode arcade pushed me to not get it until the next iteration
Never thought I'd see Street Fighter II Rainbow Edition show up in an RGC video lol. Aside from that device I LOOOOOVE the Sega Saturn. I might need one of these
Im sold, just the other day I was talking with my son about wishing someone would make a handheld with 6 buttons on the face plate.. Thank you using affiliate link!
Preorders are live! Ordered a solid black, because it's the only one that looks "right." Kinda sucks paying an extra 20 bucks just for the color, but I'm still stoked for it to get here. I will probably only use Batocera and put Master System, Game Gear, Genesis, Sega CD, and 32X (if it'll play those alright) on it and pretend it's the '90s and I have an impossibly awesome (or awesomely impossible?) Sega handheld. Thank you again for getting a review out before the pre-order so I could feel good about pitching 112 bucks (with shipping and the case) on something I've been waiting for ever since emulation handhelds have been a thing. If it played Saturn well, it would be perfect+1, but I'm most nostalgic for my old Genesis/CD/32X rig (or as I used to call it, Fort Sega). It doesn't even need 3 wall-warts plugged into a power strip! LOL
I am new to handhelds, so the question may be obvious, but is the Anbernic RG Arc compatible with Batocera? I checked the Batocera site and didn't see a version for it.
@@31leoceara I don't think there's a Batocera build for it. I wasn't saying there was, I was just being hopeful. Sorry if it sent you on a fruitless hunt. It's starting to look like nobody is interested in making a custom OS for the ARC, unfortunately. Things are released so quickly now that several new handhelds came out that community devs started focusing on and just left the ARC behind. I still love the one I got, but I'd like a better OS for it.
Thanks Russ for getting this review out so quick! It definitely saved me at least $15 because I was thinking of getting the 128GB card, but it looks really bad. I’ll use that savings on buying the official case! Honestly the black version will be worth it to me even as just a Sega Genesis handheld as I’ve always dreamed of owning a Sega nomad. Now I can have that feeling but with much better ergonomics, screen, power, and buttons!
Sega Genesis, Sega CD, Sega 32X, and Sega Saturn. That is it. So many games. And you'll feel like you're actually holding a sega controller. I hope other machine makers catch on. Retroid was on the right track with the 4:3 screen. Abernic deserves big ups for targeting a specific controller feel. I'd love for someone do it, but it would be hard to target an N64 and Dreamcast feel, haha.
Great review, Russ! Sega fan here as well. Started gaming with Dendy (knockoff NES) but then upgraded to Genesis and never looked back. I owned all of the mainline gaming systems, but Genesis still has a special place in my heart. Sonic, Road Rash, Shining Force, Gunstar Heroes, Castlevania Bloodlines and Robocop vs Terminator all were amazing games that made me super happy as a kid. So I will be buying this unit just with the goal of playing the 16bit Sega library again. It is a small pity that it doesnt play 32bit systems well, but that is what I have Odin 2 coming soon for :)
As for Perfect Dark, you were meant to move around with your C-buttons and look with the left stick (one scheme among many many control options the game provided for you). The N64 never had a right stick so the controls provided here are sufficient. Yup, it was a weird time.
Nintendo didn't want to go all-in on 3d gaming and the N64 was a result of that. I would have loved for them to be as indecisive for cartridge vs cds and provide us with an optional cd unit like the TurboGrafx and the megadrive.
Perfect Dark had the same control scheme as Goldeneye. You moved with the stick and strafed with the c buttons. That was the default control setup. Turok moved with the c buttons and looked with the stick.
@mattia1026 The problem with the n64 controller is they built it to play Mario64. Even at release the ab and cbuttons layout was a bonehead decision to anyone who paid attention. But Shiggy gets whatever Shiggy wants, even if it messes up Nintendo controlers from N64 until the Switch.
This looks amazing. Yes it's not as versatile because no analogue stick but for 2d gaming this seems perfect. Wish it had a better chipset because something like this should be playing Saturn and Dreamcast
If only it had better Saturn compatability and they used a better chipset, i'd happily have paid more for the design. I hope they make a revised model that gives it 100% saturn compatability because this design would be perfect for it. Thanks for the review you have been very thorough.
I already have a retroid pocket 3+ so this device is largely redundent for me performance-wise, however I've found myself neglecting a lot of retro systems when playing on the RP3+ as I'm not a massive fan of the 'feel' of the dome style d-pad, it's really responsive sure but I don't really like the clickiness. I've ordered one of these purely to be my '16bit and below' device because the d-pad just looks so good!
Finally sega style console! How long I've been waiting for it! Goopher was the one and the last console with six pads, but position of them was nightmare
People tend to not realize that the N64 controller had 6 face buttons! 4 C-buttons + A and B, L, R and Z right below the analog stick, start and d-pad and you would use only analog stick+Z+R+face buttons or dpad+L+R+face buttons on most games, so a device with 6 face buttons are way better suited for N64 than one with 4 face buttons and two analog sticks.
Great video! I was considering buying this because I really wanted to play some Sega saturn games but finding out its not powerful enough is tough but thank you for such a thorough review
I've been waiting for this. Been nagging Anbernic (on their videos) and talked about wanting a Saturn-inspired (or any design) handheld WITH the Saturn model 2 style D-pad everywhere for a LONG time. Wish it was more powerful (weird to style it after Saturn and then not have it play perfectly) and had analog triggers, and as someone who grew up on PAL Saturn I wish they would've made a model in the sexy full black (maybe with orange, deep/hot pink or lime green splashes to make it pop rather than the actual japanese colorway), but the design is chef's kiss; this is a great step. It doesn't get much more comfy than Saturn model 2. Now wondering how the smaller face buttons will feel (because I don't remember those being the best on the Saturn tbh). Also the D-pad looks a bit loose to me (?). 8-way is awesome but it breaking would be terrible. It took me a while of HARD pressing to get the mush I like on the 351P; when it was new I didn't like it too much. Edit: ah didn't realize the D-pad was smaller. Hard to say if bad or good without holding one. Guess some corners are inevitably cut to fit a screen on the device too. "Slick" feel does not sound good but that could probably be fixed easily. GOOD choice on third strike as a first showcase. Imagine 2x players playing 3S and other classics on a device like this in the living room lag-free. How far these devices have come already. I'm honestly super critical all the time, as one should be for the sake of advancements (have just stuck with the 351P for not finding it worth upgrading), but at the same time credit where it's due. Having grown up with OG Gameboy, trying to find small slivers of street lights while playing in the car as my parents drove home, it's easy to forget how crazy good this all already is sometimes; hope to never get used to it. Edit 2: regarding Contra ofcourse it's better. How often do you lie down and then move a pixel length in the game? VS that how often do you aim diagonally? It's nicer to press ON something (like with this D-pad) than BETWEEN two directions is my opinion. Dreamcast controllers D-pad suck for this reason with their sharp edges 4 way; they should've kept the Saturn style. If they had watned to put a stick on this too (good choice not to imho; would've been cramped) then would've been interesting to see the "orb" from the Saturn 3D-controller make a return as well. I remember it as being pretty good. Finally yeah despite my gripes this might be a buy.
Great review - I really appreciate the thoroughness. You mentioned Saturn RPGs ran well. Very specific question, but can you comment at all on the performance of Shining Force 3? This is probably the tipping point for me as to whether or not it makes sense for me to buy it. A shame it doesn't emulate Saturn better. I think there's a lot of opportunity to raise the price and offer a more performant chipset. Fingers crossed.
Hey Russ, just one thing to note : the retroarch dreamcast core does work really well also on Android (not just linux). On my rg353m i always play on Android, since it does n64 and dreamcast well.
Six face buttons? Genesis style D-pad? OH HELL YEAH! This stick-free design fits the chip perfectly. I will get one of these just to play Genesis and arcade fighting games. I know it won't run Saturn perfectly, but that doesn't bug me.
I ♥ your videos and this thing is AWESOME! I got 3 of them because the SEGA Saturn is my favourite gaming system of all time with the best D-PAD of all time! The new RG 406H is on my list as well.
Thank you for the review. Could you please consider making a video with your top 10 devices? Or maybe a Holiday buying guy for someone that new to this market
The 2nd device I buy on your reviews. First one was RK2023, amazing value for money. This one will definitely be reserved retro games up to Saturn/GBA for me.
I'll probably pick one up and depending on my experience with it even a second one for friends or family. Sega controller fans don't recieve much love so we have to pick up what we can when there's just enough quality to justify it.
I love this device. I never had a Genesis personally, but my first ever games were from playing Sega Smash Pack 2 on PC in the early aughts, and later getting Sega Smash Pack GBA; so I have a lot of love for those Genesis games.
Yeah I agree on the sentiment of locking colorways to specific models because I wanted the solid black color on the Linux only model, which they sadly don't offer.
I want one of these purely based on the ergos alone. I really liked the Powkiddy x55 for its similar heft and design. This one seems like a much better fit for the hands. Also, c'mon it's a SEGA-themed handheld!
I’m really wanting to love this… but not being powerful enough to run all Sega console games makes this almost a novelty Genesis system. I also think the shoulder buttons should have been grey, as you mentioned. Still buying it though. I need a Genesis emulation system in my life. These controls make my memories “rise from [their] grave”
I wish it had a single analogue stick so it could be a good N64. I’ve wanted a 6 button forever for both Sega and N64. This is definitely a step in the right direction.
The single stick would also be great if it ran Dreamcast better. I hope Anbernic makes a console inspired by the Dreamcast (and powerful enough to run it) next, that would truly be wonderful.
Man I love these videos, you're the main person I follow and your guides are amazing. I wish you could make a video for the RG351M installing JELOS and for the Retroid pocket 3 streaming
I think I can hold out for the inevitable "Dreamcast" revision with an analog stick and an appropriate colorway, but I can appreciate an SBC maker giving props to the solid Saturn controller design.
Bit devastated to hear that Anbernic are not good to the community that support/improve these devices. They lost a sale as it's the community that would get Saturn emulation running perfectly on this. Hopefully we'll be pleasantly surprised in 6 months
Well this is a first. Every preorder for this device is sold out. I've never seen that before. Usually at least some of the models are available for preorder right up until release. Apparently a lot of folks were tired of nintendo and really wanted that sega drip.
![FINALLY, A Handheld For Sega Kids! [RG ARC Review]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/5mseyr-Uld8/mqdefault.jpg)
✅ Hadoukenable
✅ Shoryukenable
😸😸😸 ❤🎮
Yeah... D-pad gaming is a go ! 🦾
We need to know if it's sonic boomable and spinning piledriverable.
@@JarlBarbossaThank You for this PSA most people don't know this.
Yeah man, I wanna do it 😎
This has to be Anbernic's most inspired design so far. An absolute love letter to old-school Sega.
💯
While I love the design, I'd also want a 1:1 Game Gear ripoff akin to Gameboy-RG35XX.
Dude, I haven't been this excited about a handheld release since... well, maybe ever. I love all the Nintendoesque designs, but this is just one of those "FINALLY" type things. I honestly would have been pleased with 6 face buttons and a sega d-pad on just about anything. Making it look like a Sega product was something I didn't know I needed.
@@barryisanerd I'm a huge sega fan and kind of tired of all the Nintendo style designs, so I'm also super stoked about this
I hope this one sells well enough for them to consider returning to the form factor in the future, although obviously any future one would need to be more powerful and then they'd have the issue of how to fit sticks without compromising the overall comfort of the device.
I love that you are using the Sonic CD intro for your sound test! That was my go-to when I worked on bluetooth headphone support for JELOS and it's completely ingrained into my brain now.
Oh cool!
When this much time is spent going through the intricacies of the d-pad alone, that merits a like an subscribe all on its own. Amazing review all around.
Thank you!
Russ is nothing if not thorough. And his testing methods and criteria are actually things I'm starting to use personally when deciding on whether I like D-Pads or not. Things like the Contra test, the Hadouken and Shoryuken tests... Dude is legitimately setting new standards for hardware reviews.
@@SRC267A Terrible Fortress
Apoco el Dpad es mejor que el control 8bitdo M30??
pretty soon im gonna have a specialized handheld for every system instead of one to rule them all. feels both bad and good
This is a good idea. Maybe for groups of systems to save “some” money 😜
Depends on how much they cost.
Be sure to take care of your batteries
I think im gonna end up with 2 for emulation. My powkiddy x55 for PS1 and below and an Odin 2 for PS3/Switch down to N64
There simply cannot be a single handheld that would be great for everything. Most notably due to the many display aspect ratios those old systems use.
Buying one of these as an ultimate Mega Drive machine (my childhood), I'm more excited about this than my Odin 2 arriving soon.
I ordered my Arc-D two days ago. Have you been happy with it?
the arc d in black looks like a sega nomad update we never got
... oh man, the Nomad. Just you mentioning it like that made me tear up a little.
I might have to buy this just for this reason.
It's just nice to see something that isn't designed entirely around nintendo, Sega bros this is your day!
Can we pause for a second and acknowledge again that Russ is bar none the best handheld reviewer? He bought a Saturn controller on eBay JUST for this review! The professionalism and dedication on this channel is nuts.
I actually think this (Linux model) might be a perfect handheld to curate and give to a kid with its simpler dpad only input and the sturdy build quality.
Yeah but did he measure the delta E and white point of the screen? No? What a shill. (/s)
Sorry, inside joke because one unhinged commentator expects these handhelds to be something they're not.
It's dual boot
He’s in his own class but I think retro dodo is a good runner up.
he's the bob ross of emulation
Stop simping for likes.
If I were to purchase a device like this, ie with no analog stick, I would have no expectations for anything past Gen5. This device looks promising for playing anything pre-Gen6. Nice video, as usual Russ.
Can u tell me from what system gen6 starts?
@@jessica49arrow Gen 6 starts with Dreamcast. PS2, Gamecube and Xbox are later launched, respectively.
i'm in love with the look of the black model
I had the mega drive back in the day. The nostalgia hits hard for me with this
This is a very impressive device - ALMOST as impressive as turning around such an excellent video in such a short amount of time. Thank you so much for putting this together!!
I really wish they had copied the buttons from the Sega Nomad. That's genuinely what I played all my genesis games on the most. That being said: I appreciate that you really deep dive into the feel of the buttons and the D-Pad!!! It's so important, and most people skip that in their reviews, and simply explain how the buttons feel in a vacuum.
Just finished watching your video and I'm truly impressed by the depth and clarity of the information presented. Your ability to review the product in such an engaging way is a rare find on TH-cam. Honestly, this channel is incredibly underrated and deserves much more recognition for the quality content you're producing!
Super cool to see a Sega style d-pad and 6 button layout on one of these handhelds, hopefully it's a sign of more to come in the future. Would love to see one with dual thumbsticks as well.
I'm so glad you're just as picky about dpads as I am. The dedicated dpad section on a lot of your videos is a huge lifesaver
Cheers Russ, quality review as usual. I wasn't expecting to be excited about this one but it nails a 'Super Game Gear' vibe that I find really appealing. Nice to see the return of the 4 inch screen in an affordable device too. It's another don't need but do want device. Good job Anbernic.
dang, if the saturn performance was a bit more solid i wouldve totally grabbed this, it looks outstanding!
Many review say Saturn games run well , try to see more videos about this console , i just buy one for play Shining Force 3 😊
@@GObjio24Have you had a chance to use it much yet? How does shining force play on it?
Man, with all these emulation handhelds I bought I really don't need another one. But the SEGA nostalgia and the layout are just screaming "BUY ME!" with this one.
Really glad to see something like this that finally doesn't have analogue sticks. The market is flooded with horizontal form factor devices that are really uncomfortable to play due to the analogue sticks getting in the way
I agree, we have options like Odin 2 that will emulate everything and need both dpad and analog, but for 4:3 older systems I do not think we need it, RP2S for example would benefit for not having analogs.
Arc D in Black.
Heaven.
Got one on the way
You’re the best for getting this review out so quickly! Now go get some rest
Thanks! Will do! Yesterday was a long day 😎
Best intro music from any TH-camr.
Thanks for the review Russ! I'm very interested in picking this up.
I bought an RG35XX and a Steam Deck, largely on your recommendation and they both served me well, but I was recently diagnosed with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, and those two are too small and too large respectively. This seems to have similar size and ergonomics to modern controllers which I can still use since they're actually designed for human hands.
Edit: Made the purchase, we'll see how it works out in a month!
FYI, this is smaller than the Steam Deck… so I would think if the grips on the Deck aggravate your Carpal Tunnel then this won’t be better. The Lenovo Legion Go has pretty deep grips though.
A lot of good things about this device. Thanks for covering it so completely! I feel like I'm going to enjoy this one a lot as a big SEGA fan. This seems like a great excuse to try out a few Saturn games that I haven't played much.
I love old Sega dpads. More in this style is always good.
This is simply the BEST review for this handheld available in TH-cam and I've already made my descision without any shade of doubt. Thanks a lot for your work, buddy!
Thank you for mentioning Anbernic's hostile approach to the community. I know, most people who will be buying this device will not care and just use what came with the device, so I appreciate you mentioning it as it has ramifications on how well the device will still be into the future.
They make some of the best hardware at great price-points, and that makes it all the more frustrating that they do not want to co-operate with the developers whose code they stole to make their hacked-together OS.
Well said, I agree and support the developers' decisions, making a custom firmware/OS is no easy feat, the devs deserve to have their work recognized and not shamelessly copied for a quick buck. 😔
Hopefully Powkiddy and other handheld manufacturers don't take the same hostile approach. 🤞
Good review! This seems like a better Sega Nomad! 😄 I do love the Genesis/Saturn pad, so I might think about getting this device down the line. Though, I probably will wait until (or if) the Saturn emulation might potentially improve. I would love to be able to play Saturn games perfectly on a handheld like this one.
A Nomad where the batteries last longer than 15 minutes!
i get some much joy from each review you do russ. I'm not even in the market for new handhelds, but the reviews you do really make me feel like I've experienced them too.
Great video. I WAS sold before this but now i'll wait for saturn perfection
Haven't been this excited for a device in a while, was a big Genesis kid growing up!
They could of went with a Unisoc T610 to make Sega Saturn more playable and just had two colors or even one color(Black) for the $89 price point. I don't see the target demographic wanting those transparent colors and it seems like it was an attempt to make cheaper kid versions. Perhaps one day they will release an ARC+ or an ARC 2 with proper Sega Saturn support.
I personally like the transparent grey as it really resembles 90s nostalgia, so everyone's taste is a bit different.
6:36 - Hey just a heads up, there were quite a few different revisions of the 3 button genesis pad, and one of the changes was the dpad. I mention that because anyone who had a model 1 genesis is probably going to be confused by the way that dpad looks.
I like to collect controllers so saturn rereleaes and updates come up a lot. There was a ps2 release which is highly sought after but I think the 8bitdo md30 nails it and makes some nice changes to then original design. If you like those controllers retrobit has their big6 controller which is very good and they have preorders for a saturn controller with dual analog and 4 shoulder buttons that I personally have been waiting to come out for about 5 years now.
Thanks for the info! I love controllers but I'm trying my best to prevent myself from "collecting" them :)
@@RetroGameCorps You're welcome. Segaretro has a lot of good info about the controller variations.
Also, just give into the collection need. :) :D I love to collect them because it's the most hands on physical aspect you get with old games and there are great adapters like the Bliss-box that will easily let you use them with modern computers or emulators. And they're a lot easier to collect and you can keep them in a bin. :) Well, they are until you start collecting arcade sticks anyway.
I'm waiting excitedly for those new Snapdragon chips coming out in December that are dedicated for handhelds. Hoping Anbernic does something similar to the RG405M but with the new chips
Thanks for coming at this as a Sega fan. A lot of reviews are from the Nintendont side of things and seem to downplay a lot of the positives of this device.
I am not at all interested in any 6 button games, BUT, I applaud Anbernic for creating such an amazing device for those who do!
At first I was keen on getting the JPN Saturn colorway, but the black Genesis version is the one I’m getting - complete nostalgia overload. It’s a shame Anbernic went a weaker cheap set (mid Saturn performance 😭), but this is one I’ll still add to my collection.
Hi there, did you receive it yet? Are you enjoying it? As with most things I'm seeing lots of different opinions on Saturn performance out there and that's really the only reason I'm interested in this.
These videos really are the highlights of my week. Its like uncorked joy the second, i press play and the theme music to a new video starts.... Thx. 🎉
Wow this is no doubt excellent for fighting games! Very tempting for FGC players. Great review, Russ!
This is incredible. I was thinking/hoping just 2 days ago that one of these retro handheld companies would release a handheld with a Genesis-style button layout!!
I want the Black D model, love the look! Thanks for pulling an all nighter for us!
Just finished watching the entire video and I'm so torn. I thought this was going to be the perfect system, since the MD/Genesis were my first systems (had both for reasons), and the Saturn too. But not being able to play Saturn games that well is a buzz kill, so I'll just have to hold out a bit more for the ARC 2. Awesome review as always (during the early bird campaign no less), thanks!
I was torn because of the same. Adding on top of that the fact it doesn't have a hall stick on the lower right for tate mode arcade pushed me to not get it until the next iteration
For weeks i was wondering which handed to choose... And you show me this. As a die hard Megadrive / Saturn fan, i think i made my choice.
It's an amazing handheld with an awesome review! Thanks Russ!
Thanks for watching!
second minute
of video and i am almost sold…. form factor and 6 buttons, specialized d pad and vertical target on retro gaming. You have my attention
if you are a sega fan this is a must have device.
Never thought I'd see Street Fighter II Rainbow Edition show up in an RGC video lol.
Aside from that device I LOOOOOVE the Sega Saturn. I might need one of these
This might make a great Christmas gift for my oldest! He's been asking for a Sega Genesis for a while
Im sold, just the other day I was talking with my son about wishing someone would make a handheld with 6 buttons on the face plate.. Thank you using affiliate link!
Preorders are live! Ordered a solid black, because it's the only one that looks "right." Kinda sucks paying an extra 20 bucks just for the color, but I'm still stoked for it to get here. I will probably only use Batocera and put Master System, Game Gear, Genesis, Sega CD, and 32X (if it'll play those alright) on it and pretend it's the '90s and I have an impossibly awesome (or awesomely impossible?) Sega handheld. Thank you again for getting a review out before the pre-order so I could feel good about pitching 112 bucks (with shipping and the case) on something I've been waiting for ever since emulation handhelds have been a thing. If it played Saturn well, it would be perfect+1, but I'm most nostalgic for my old Genesis/CD/32X rig (or as I used to call it, Fort Sega). It doesn't even need 3 wall-warts plugged into a power strip! LOL
I am new to handhelds, so the question may be obvious, but is the Anbernic RG Arc compatible with Batocera? I checked the Batocera site and didn't see a version for it.
@@31leoceara I don't think there's a Batocera build for it. I wasn't saying there was, I was just being hopeful. Sorry if it sent you on a fruitless hunt. It's starting to look like nobody is interested in making a custom OS for the ARC, unfortunately. Things are released so quickly now that several new handhelds came out that community devs started focusing on and just left the ARC behind. I still love the one I got, but I'd like a better OS for it.
Thanks Russ for getting this review out so quick! It definitely saved me at least $15 because I was thinking of getting the 128GB card, but it looks really bad. I’ll use that savings on buying the official case! Honestly the black version will be worth it to me even as just a Sega Genesis handheld as I’ve always dreamed of owning a Sega nomad. Now I can have that feeling but with much better ergonomics, screen, power, and buttons!
Sega Genesis, Sega CD, Sega 32X, and Sega Saturn. That is it. So many games. And you'll feel like you're actually holding a sega controller. I hope other machine makers catch on. Retroid was on the right track with the 4:3 screen. Abernic deserves big ups for targeting a specific controller feel. I'd love for someone do it, but it would be hard to target an N64 and Dreamcast feel, haha.
Nice been waiting for something like this
I hope those devs don’t give up and work on this plllllleeaaaaees!!!
This is a definite buy for me. I loathe the analog sticks on everything. This is a perfect retro handheld.
same bro
Great review, Russ!
Sega fan here as well. Started gaming with Dendy (knockoff NES) but then upgraded to Genesis and never looked back. I owned all of the mainline gaming systems, but Genesis still has a special place in my heart. Sonic, Road Rash, Shining Force, Gunstar Heroes, Castlevania Bloodlines and Robocop vs Terminator all were amazing games that made me super happy as a kid.
So I will be buying this unit just with the goal of playing the 16bit Sega library again. It is a small pity that it doesnt play 32bit systems well, but that is what I have Odin 2 coming soon for :)
As for Perfect Dark, you were meant to move around with your C-buttons and look with the left stick (one scheme among many many control options the game provided for you). The N64 never had a right stick so the controls provided here are sufficient. Yup, it was a weird time.
Nintendo didn't want to go all-in on 3d gaming and the N64 was a result of that. I would have loved for them to be as indecisive for cartridge vs cds and provide us with an optional cd unit like the TurboGrafx and the megadrive.
@EatMe420Real? ..
Perfect Dark had the same control scheme as Goldeneye. You moved with the stick and strafed with the c buttons. That was the default control setup. Turok moved with the c buttons and looked with the stick.
@mattia1026 The problem with the n64 controller is they built it to play Mario64. Even at release the ab and cbuttons layout was a bonehead decision to anyone who paid attention. But Shiggy gets whatever Shiggy wants, even if it messes up Nintendo controlers from N64 until the Switch.
This looks amazing. Yes it's not as versatile because no analogue stick but for 2d gaming this seems perfect. Wish it had a better chipset because something like this should be playing Saturn and Dreamcast
Being a Saturn lover I am a little undecided ... congratulations on the clear and exhaustive examination! ❤️
This is the first time I've pre-ordered one of these systems. Usually I wait for custom firmware. Sega controls and consolization is the dream.
If only it had better Saturn compatability and they used a better chipset, i'd happily have paid more for the design. I hope they make a revised model that gives it 100% saturn compatability because this design would be perfect for it. Thanks for the review you have been very thorough.
As a Sega kid this hits hard.
I already have a retroid pocket 3+ so this device is largely redundent for me performance-wise, however I've found myself neglecting a lot of retro systems when playing on the RP3+ as I'm not a massive fan of the 'feel' of the dome style d-pad, it's really responsive sure but I don't really like the clickiness. I've ordered one of these purely to be my '16bit and below' device because the d-pad just looks so good!
The most Sega thing ever. I kinda like it.
Finally sega style console! How long I've been waiting for it!
Goopher was the one and the last console with six pads, but position of them was nightmare
Wow an in depth review this quick.. Putting in the time Russ. Keep up the good work.
People tend to not realize that the N64 controller had 6 face buttons! 4 C-buttons + A and B, L, R and Z right below the analog stick, start and d-pad and you would use only analog stick+Z+R+face buttons or dpad+L+R+face buttons on most games, so a device with 6 face buttons are way better suited for N64 than one with 4 face buttons and two analog sticks.
Great video! I was considering buying this because I really wanted to play some Sega saturn games but finding out its not powerful enough is tough but thank you for such a thorough review
You know, this thing is actually really cool IMO. I was on the fence at first but I warmed up to it a lot.
I've been waiting for this. Been nagging Anbernic (on their videos) and talked about wanting a Saturn-inspired (or any design) handheld WITH the Saturn model 2 style D-pad everywhere for a LONG time. Wish it was more powerful (weird to style it after Saturn and then not have it play perfectly) and had analog triggers, and as someone who grew up on PAL Saturn I wish they would've made a model in the sexy full black (maybe with orange, deep/hot pink or lime green splashes to make it pop rather than the actual japanese colorway), but the design is chef's kiss; this is a great step. It doesn't get much more comfy than Saturn model 2. Now wondering how the smaller face buttons will feel (because I don't remember those being the best on the Saturn tbh). Also the D-pad looks a bit loose to me (?). 8-way is awesome but it breaking would be terrible. It took me a while of HARD pressing to get the mush I like on the 351P; when it was new I didn't like it too much.
Edit: ah didn't realize the D-pad was smaller. Hard to say if bad or good without holding one. Guess some corners are inevitably cut to fit a screen on the device too. "Slick" feel does not sound good but that could probably be fixed easily. GOOD choice on third strike as a first showcase. Imagine 2x players playing 3S and other classics on a device like this in the living room lag-free. How far these devices have come already. I'm honestly super critical all the time, as one should be for the sake of advancements (have just stuck with the 351P for not finding it worth upgrading), but at the same time credit where it's due. Having grown up with OG Gameboy, trying to find small slivers of street lights while playing in the car as my parents drove home, it's easy to forget how crazy good this all already is sometimes; hope to never get used to it.
Edit 2: regarding Contra ofcourse it's better. How often do you lie down and then move a pixel length in the game? VS that how often do you aim diagonally? It's nicer to press ON something (like with this D-pad) than BETWEEN two directions is my opinion. Dreamcast controllers D-pad suck for this reason with their sharp edges 4 way; they should've kept the Saturn style. If they had watned to put a stick on this too (good choice not to imho; would've been cramped) then would've been interesting to see the "orb" from the Saturn 3D-controller make a return as well. I remember it as being pretty good.
Finally yeah despite my gripes this might be a buy.
Great review - I really appreciate the thoroughness.
You mentioned Saturn RPGs ran well. Very specific question, but can you comment at all on the performance of Shining Force 3? This is probably the tipping point for me as to whether or not it makes sense for me to buy it.
A shame it doesn't emulate Saturn better. I think there's a lot of opportunity to raise the price and offer a more performant chipset. Fingers crossed.
Hey Russ, just one thing to note : the retroarch dreamcast core does work really well also on Android (not just linux). On my rg353m i always play on Android, since it does n64 and dreamcast well.
Six face buttons? Genesis style D-pad? OH HELL YEAH!
This stick-free design fits the chip perfectly. I will get one of these just to play Genesis and arcade fighting games. I know it won't run Saturn perfectly, but that doesn't bug me.
I ♥ your videos and this thing is AWESOME! I got 3 of them because the SEGA Saturn is my favourite gaming system of all time with the best D-PAD of all time!
The new RG 406H is on my list as well.
23:57 Seeing Ken's wonky fireballs fly off screen: HaDouKen! WherYuGoin!
Thank you for the review.
Could you please consider making a video with your top 10 devices? Or maybe a Holiday buying guy for someone that new to this market
The 2nd device I buy on your reviews. First one was RK2023, amazing value for money. This one will definitely be reserved retro games up to Saturn/GBA for me.
These look comfy as hell
This looks really awesome, I’m considering getting this to use just for fighting games, this seems perfect for fighting games.
I'll probably pick one up and depending on my experience with it even a second one for friends or family. Sega controller fans don't recieve much love so we have to pick up what we can when there's just enough quality to justify it.
TH-cam pop-up: "Do you really wanna thumbs up after watching less than 1 minute of this video?"
Me: "Yeah man, I wanna do it!"
Very well done as always brother. Thank you for mentioning the large buttons, love the big buttons!❤
I love this device. I never had a Genesis personally, but my first ever games were from playing Sega Smash Pack 2 on PC in the early aughts, and later getting Sega Smash Pack GBA; so I have a lot of love for those Genesis games.
Same Here, I didn't buy a Sega Genesis until I was 20. Also my first Sega experiences was with Sonic CD, Sonic 3, and Sonic R on the PC.
Yeah I agree on the sentiment of locking colorways to specific models because I wanted the solid black color on the Linux only model, which they sadly don't offer.
Same, but they've got me because the want is strong enough that I'm just going to order the Dual version to get all black.
Just picked up a D version of this brand new for $60 on FB marketplace. Looking forward to some Third Strike on the go!
I want one of these purely based on the ergos alone. I really liked the Powkiddy x55 for its similar heft and design. This one seems like a much better fit for the hands. Also, c'mon it's a SEGA-themed handheld!
I’m really wanting to love this… but not being powerful enough to run all Sega console games makes this almost a novelty Genesis system.
I also think the shoulder buttons should have been grey, as you mentioned.
Still buying it though. I need a Genesis emulation system in my life. These controls make my memories “rise from [their] grave”
what a beauty! i havent even watched the vid yet but just the look of it makes me want it right now!
I've NEVER been a Sega fan.
I'm buying one of these.
Would love to see this next to a Game Gear or Nomad for size comparison.
I wish it had a single analogue stick so it could be a good N64. I’ve wanted a 6 button forever for both Sega and N64. This is definitely a step in the right direction.
The single stick would also be great if it ran Dreamcast better. I hope Anbernic makes a console inspired by the Dreamcast (and powerful enough to run it) next, that would truly be wonderful.
Man I love these videos, you're the main person I follow and your guides are amazing. I wish you could make a video for the RG351M installing JELOS and for the Retroid pocket 3 streaming
Just got my shipping notification yesterday, looking forward to play some games with it :)
TH-cam notifies me Russ makes a new video and I literally stop watching whatever I was doing to watch. Always look forward to seeing what you do Russ!
Wow, thanks!
Same here. His videos take priority
I think I can hold out for the inevitable "Dreamcast" revision with an analog stick and an appropriate colorway, but I can appreciate an SBC maker giving props to the solid Saturn controller design.
Bit devastated to hear that Anbernic are not good to the community that support/improve these devices. They lost a sale as it's the community that would get Saturn emulation running perfectly on this. Hopefully we'll be pleasantly surprised in 6 months
Saturn is a trickier system to get perfect, doubtful that any level of community support could overcome the limitations of the chipset to that extent.
@@ColinRowlands ah that's a shame. I love the gimmick/design but to me it's gotta play all Sega games. Thanks for the input!
OMG ... PERFECTION!
FINALLY ... THE 6-FACE-BUTTON GOODNESS!!
Well this is a first. Every preorder for this device is sold out. I've never seen that before. Usually at least some of the models are available for preorder right up until release. Apparently a lot of folks were tired of nintendo and really wanted that sega drip.
They haven't started taking pre-orders yet, for some reason they don't seem to have the ability to set a correct status message on their order pages.
Thank goodness Russ posted I was afraid I might forget to eat and drink