I'm well used to seeing the Game Boy camera used in all sorts of kitschy, weird ways. I even brought mine to my family's Christmas get-together, and let me tell you, no one is recognizable in the snaps. So, upon hearing that someone managed to strap the old Nintendo handheld and accessory combo to a telescope and to take a photo of Jupiter from millions of miles away, it's safe to say I was baffled that it worked.

In an email to Time Extension, director, musician, and video game enthusiast Chris Graue presents a bizarre contraption that attaches Ninty's retro handheld and the Game Boy Camera to the Mount Wilson Observatory in California. Created in collaboration with camera and electrical department professional Drew van Oort, the project takes the 2BitToy Game Boy Camera specifically and makes it compatible with C-mount lenses.

"According to the GBC Astrophotography community, I've got the record for the longest lens and furthest object photographed with one," claims Graue. That's hardly surprising given we're talking about using the Observatory's 60-inch telescope as a lens to shoot something in space.

Can I take a moment to remind you we're talking about a four-bit greyscale, 128-pixel camera based on tech from 1998 taking a photo of Jupiter? Hilariously, the telescope it's using as a lens is even older, as it was seemingly first built in 1908. To actually pair the retro handheld with the scope, Graue says they 3D printed a 1.25-inch tube that combines with adapters to suit the 4-inch eyepiece (provided by Geovanni the "telescope man").

In a video documenting the project, Graue first attempts to snap a photo of the moon. It takes some twiddling, but eventually, he ends up with something that's not just white pixels. However, that apparently wasn't ambitious enough, as the telescope is then shifted to face Jupiter, and while the field of view is limited to the planet's edge, you can just about make out the stripes.

You've probably noticed that Graue isn't using a stock Nintendo handheld. It's actually using a backlit screen not unlike the Game Boy Color AMOLED touchscreen I used to mod my handheld, and it's wearing a striking green and orange shell. The getup is really just for vibes, but swapping out that original DMG non-backlit screen is essential if you want to stand a chance of seeing a distant planet like Jupiter. That said, Graue also uses an original Game Boy printer to get a physical copy of the photo, which feels more magical than looking at it on a modern panel.

The takeaway here, as Graue puts it, is "yes, if you're committed enough, you too can take a picture of Jupiter with your Game Boy Camera." The musician has even included the 3D print files for the aforementioned adapter, just in case you have access to a telescope bigger than my house.

This is certainly one of the wildest use cases for the Game Boy Camera I've come across yet. While Graue's project is inspired by the scene's commitment to keeping the accessory in use, it also doubles as promotion for his band, Louser, and its latest tour. So, if you appreciate bananas projects, the least you can do is go check out the pop-punk band.

Swing by the best retro consoles for ways to play your favorite oldies on authentic hardware.

Pour one out for the Lenovo G02, as the controversial retro handheld is now dead and buried. By that, I mean there should be no signs of the device on Chinese marketplaces like AliExpress and Alibaba, but if you look hard enough, you'll see it lurking in the shadows.

Lenovo caused quite the stir with its scrappy retro handheld back in May. Not only did many think it was a "fake" portable wearing the brand's well-known tech branding to dupe players with a faux sense of quality, but Retro Dodo later highlighted that the device was indeed real and being loaded with most likely illegal ROMs by third-party sellers.

In an update, Retro Dodo claims the Lenovo G02 is officially gone from retailers, but I suspect it has nuked the branding alone (cheers, Time Extension). While you'll no longer find anything originally tied to the Lenovo brand, even after a cheeky sub-brand name swap to dodge some of the original heat, I'm still seeing identical 4.5-inch Linux portables at AliExpress with swapped-out branding.

In truth, this is exactly what I thought would happen with the G02. The brand previously clarified that the retro handheld wasn't a first-party device, and the branded product wasn't intended to be sold outside of China. Simply put, unlike something like the Legion Go S, this portable likely existed before Lenovo's involvement, and the badge on the box was due to licensing rather than any sort of manufacturing or distribution involvement.

Of course, the real controversy with the G02 Retro handheld lies with its games. As I've covered before, it's common practice for third-party sellers to buy portables like the likes of Anbernic in bulk, then include a dodgy microSD card loaded with unlicensed ROMs. That becomes an issue when you're then presented with a household tech name like Lenovo upon powering on said portables, as that then places the brand within proximity of piracy.

Just to be clear, there's no reason to suggest Lenovo actively allowed third-party sellers to include illegal ROMs with any handheld tied to its brand name. The company says that it "does not authorize the sale of this device outside of China, including third-party platforms such as AliExpress or other reseller sites. Any such sales are not conducted or sanctioned by Lenovo or its authorized licensees."

That ultimately means the listings at Aliexpress and Alibaba came from elsewhere, and the models still live potentially have zero ties to Lenovo or its branding. In theory, that means models like the "new" New GUSGU H7 won't feature the Lenovo intro splash screen or packaging of the G02, making it just like the other crummy emulation handhelds at Amazon and Chinese retailers.

Don't get me wrong, I love scrappy consoles (that's why I was excited to introduce everyone to Sony's cancelled PS1 inside a DualShock last week.) However, the G02 serves as a reminder that the world of retro handhelds can feel a little rogue, and you're better off sticking with portables that have been tried and tested.

Check out the best retro consoles for classic system remakes and emulation boxes.

The Nintendo Switch is dead; long live Nintendo Switch. As my least-favorite console of the last decade, entombed in its dock until my fiancée decides to finish The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, I'm surprised by how sentimental I feel in the wake of Nintendo's latest announcement. Sales of the original Switch family in the UK and Europe will cease in early 2027, just in time for the last-gen console's 10th anniversary.

It's darkly poetic that a console should die a month out from its birthday. But this is no true death. Rather, I see the end of its reign in EU markets as a step toward a new future – one where the Switch OLED, Lite, and classic editions are forever enshrined among other discontinued consoles that can still be enjoyed today. And yes, that means the OG Switch is officially retro.

Down but not out

Hear me out before you hunt down my email or unload your vitriol in the comments section. We are living in a very strange new world when it comes to gaming trends and markets. What's new is too expensive, and what's old is too viable to dismiss.

The price of a new Nintendo Switch 2 console has risen globally by $30-50 since its launch last summer. Xbox Series X consoles have seen an even steeper price hike in recent months, while a brand new PS5 Pro has risen to almost $1,000 in Sony's latest round of retail refreshes. The global RAM shortage and other side effects of the AI boom are the culprit here. To top it all off, the impending cessation of physical PS5 game discs by 2028 will see Sony embracing a digital-only future that will suck for everyone.

Not only are gamers being priced out of their own hobby, the element of choice in how we collect our games is suddenly being eroded. There's something slightly heartening, then, about Nintendo's decision to sunset its original Switch.

It’s easier to be kinder to discontinued consoles. They shift from being a site of active and ongoing critique, whether it be a price hike or something as industry-quaking as threatening physical ownership altogether, to historical time capsules. It's probably what's making me look upon my own classic Nintendo Switch with a little more softness as I anticipate the fact that this, too, shall pass.

And pass, it must. It's the natural way of things, and it doesn't mean a console is immediately no longer fit for enjoyment. I remember when the Nintendo DS Lite was discontinued. The 3DS had been booming for three years by that point, but instead of demanding a new handheld for my 19th birthday two months before I went to University, I held on to it. Why would I replace something that still worked fine?

My DS Lite – a limited edition silver and black model with the Guitar Hero logo emblazoned on the front – still sits in my bedside drawer. The charger cable is more of a charger tangle at this point, stiff and yellowed with age, though perfectly capable of re-juicing the decades-old handset whenever I please. I break it out for the odd visit to The Sims 2's Strangetown or to feed my Nintendogs from time to time. Someday, I hope to copy my friend: years after receiving a classic DS for Christmas when we were just 11 years old, she passed it down to her son as his one and only device when he turned six. His friends are definitely jealous, even the iPad kids – the dual screens and stylus combo is just as exciting today as it was in 2004, apparently.

Old and still gold

Games consoles as heirlooms sounds like a strange concept. But each and every one is a piece of technological history. The best DS games are just as playable now as they were in 2006. Given the formatting demands of a DS game, many can't be accessed on any other family of consoles. They're windows to the past, allowing us to experience the simplicity of days gone by, and I wouldn't part with my DS Lite or PS2 for anything.

But unlike the DS Lite or PS2, you might not view the Switch as a retro console yet. You'd be right about that in theory. The Switch doesn't quite meet the textbook definition of retro just yet – just like the PS4 or Xbox One, the more appropriate term might be last or past-gen. But with tech specs having always lagged just behind Sony and Microsoft's since it launched in 2017, the line between "retro" and "last-gen" is blurrier than ever. The latter infers an inherently unfavorable comparison to current gen consoles, outdated in the face of modernity. Retro proudly claims neither. It refuses to compete, and therefore becomes cool again.

Maybe it's not time for Switch to be considered retro, but in my mind, it's felt old-school since 2020. As new games get pricier and consoles have fewer marked improvements justifying each generational leap, our notion of retro consoles needs to evolve past the point of "something 15 years old or more". What's so different about my mother's friend's husband gifting my brother his old PS1 back in 2001 and me hoarding my old Nintendos for the kids I don't have yet? Both are examples of video games as precious commodities being passed down to – you guessed it – the next generation. It just so happens that when a console gets discontinued, it only gets more special because of the memories you have attached to it.

Check out the best Switch games to play on your OG console right now in 2026. Who needs new ones, anyway?

Blaze just announced an Activision edition of the Super Pocket, and it's for all of you who wondered why classics like Pitfall aren't on the Atari version. You could say that there are just so many gems by the publisher that they deserved their own handheld, and while that's partly true, the publisher is also hoarding a bunch of my favorite 2600 games.

Coming in at the usual $69.99 / $59.99 via HyperMegaTech, the Super Pocket Activision Edition is dressed like a homage to Pitfall. It's wearing a magnificent five-stripe trapezoidal rainbow that borrows design cues from that platformer's box art while using the publisher's original logo color scheme. It certainly looks like something that's packed with 34 licensed '80s classics, and the list includes romps by another big Atari developer.

Yes, it's got Pitfall, its "Lost Caverns" sequel, and River Raid for some scrolling shmup goodness. The entries I'd grab this retro handheld for, however, are by Activision's old third-party rival, Imagic. Any time I fire up the Atari 2600+ or my janky old original, I end up reaching for carts like Demon Attack, Dragonfire, and Moonsweeper, and this portable means I can play those anywhere I'd like.

• Barnstorming - Activision
• Beamrider - Activision
• Boxing - Activision
• Checkers - Activision
• Chopper Command - Activision
• Cosmic Commuter - Activision
• Demon Attack - Imagic
• Dolphin - Activision
• Dragonfire - Imagic
• Enduro - Activision
• Grand Prix - Activision
• H.E.R.O. - Activision
• Kabobber - Activision
• Kaboom! - Activision
• Keystone Kapers - Activision
• Laser Blast - Activision
• MegaMania - Activision
• Moonsweeper - Imagic
• Oink! - Activision
• Pitfall! - Activision
• Pitfall II: Lost Caverns - Activision
• Plaque Attack - Activision
• Pressure Cooker - Activision
• Private Eye - Activision
• River Raid - Activision
• River Raid II - Activision
• Robot Tank - Activision
• Seaquest - Activision
• Skiing - Activision
• Sky Jinks - Activision
• Spider Fighter - Activision
• Stampede - Activision
• Starmaster - Activision
• Thwocker - Activision

Naturally, there are more Activision releases on the new Super Pocket than Imagic, and you could probably release a separate version of the latter. But given that games from both publishers are absent from many handhelds and modern retro consoles, I'll take what I can get. Plus, if you're making a point of collecting all of Blaze's Evercade models, this one is going to stand out within the current lineup.

Just like those other models, the Super Pocket Activision Edition boasts all the same budget handheld bells and whistles. You're still getting a serviceable 2.8-inch IPS display, a circular d-pad, four face buttons, and an admittedly cramped set of shoulders around back. It's also one of the last bastions of physical gaming since it has a cartridge slot for Blaze's expansive Evercade collection, which provides it with access to over 500 other outings.

In fact, if you prefer the Activision version's striking '80s getup to the primary colors of the Super Pocket Rare Edition, you could pick this one up instead and still have access to Banjo-Kazooie come October. Yes, it'll run early 3D games just like every other Evercade console, and if you're patient, you'll even get Banjo-Tooie in the same collection.

The Super Pocket Activision Edition lands September 28, but it may take a while for pre-order links to show up worldwide. It'll arrive just before the Evercade Nexus, Blaze's flagship handheld that boasts thumbsticks and beefier specs for the increasing number of 3D romps entering its ecosystem. Every handheld and console will run the same games, though, so you'll have options that won't make your bank account flinch.

Take a peek at the best retro controllers and treat your console to a new pad.

Turns out even the Sega Dreamcast isn't safe from the horrors of AI, as the tech appears to be messing with promotional keychains. While engaging in the usual social media doom-scrolling, my thumb came to a halt upon seeing a bastardized version of the retro console, its controller, and VMU, all of which featured garbled text and weird button glyphs.

Currently live at the Sega Shop, the offending Anime Expo Dreamcast keychains in question are actually really cute. They pay homage to the publisher's last best retro console contender, its accompanying controller, and a VMU with a Chao sprite from Sonic Adventure. That's enough to sell me on what would be an excellent collectable for my Sega collection had AI not destroyed the details.

At a glance, you might not realise anything is wrong with these Dreamcast keychains. Upon zooming into Sega's logo, though, it becomes apparent that it's not using real letters, instead wearing a vague cursive-shaped line that has been altered by AI. The buttons on the controller are particularly offensive, with the "B" looking more like a messy circle.

Upon auditing the site for other instances, I found that most of the accessories featured in the Anime Expo range and the general store weren't altered by AI. There's even another Dreamcast keychain that, despite using heavy grain, appears to be an image with untouched details. There is one other offender, though, and it's a set of Crazy Tazi air fresheners that have already flagged for gen AI shenanigans.

Previously highlighted by Danny8bit on X, the Crazy Tazi air fresheners in question suffer from the same garbled text as the Dreamcast keychains. In an attempt to replicate the issues, the site SEGAbits ran the art through gen AI tools and ended up with the same sort of image after using real artwork. This is all neatly summarized in a Time Extension report from last month, and it gives me hope that AI isn't directly making the artwork for the merch.

It appears that the issue lies with Sega taking real product images and using AI to place them on specific backdrops. By doing so, the apparent tools are doing more than just cutting out objects and popping them on top of an orange background, or hanging them from a car mirror in the case of the Crazy Taxi air fresheners, resulting in undesired alterations to details AI simply can't regenerate.

I'd be appalled if the above Dreamcast keychains show up IRL with AI-generated details, and I do suspect these are "placeholders". That's no real excuse, but it is one being increasingly used regarding game assets during development. Crazy Taxi: World Tour has already come under scrutiny for seemingly using the tech, so I'm hoping a legendary gaming brand I care deeply about isn't about to fall down a big artificial slop rabbit hole.

Take a peek at the best retro controllers for new gamepads with a classic feel.

Turns out there's an appetite for Commodore's Callback flip phone, and the so-called "dumbphone" has apparently matched the C64 Ultimate in first-month sales. That's quite the feat given that we're talking about a device that used to cost $500 before being reduced to $400, but the microcomputer lover in me has an eyebrow firmly raised at the company's reaction to the achievement.

In a post to X, the Callback 8020's pre-order stats are described as "The biggest moment in Commodore's modern history!" (thanks, Time Extension). Don't get me wrong, I actually think the flip-phone has the potential to help people avoid the horrors of social media while still being "connected", but I can't help but feel bad for the machine that marked the brand's resurrection.

Yes, you could argue that if it weren't for the Commodore 64 Ultimate, the brand would be stuck back in the '80s, serving as an immortalised alternative to the best retro consoles. At the same time, releasing things that aren't just microcomputers makes sense when it comes to the overarching "grow Commodore" battle plan.

Still, I am worried about the underlying taste the Callback 8020 is potentially leaving in the mouths of retro gaming fans. Again, I am looking forward to seeing what a flip-phone that's anti-doomscrolling can deliver to those of us looking to escape our aggressive social media rectangles, but at the same time, it's getting off on the wrong foot with some of its marketing tactics.

For starters, Commodore seems to have a nasty habit of using AI for its Callback 8020 promotional videos. That's certainly a guaranteed way to get my back up, even if it claims to use the tech "sparringly". It's also coming under fire for creating a garish crossbody holster for the flip-phone that feels more like a gag than something you'd pay $24 for, not to mention you can grab very similar accessories on AliExpress for half the price.

I'll still be looking to try out the Callback 8020 if I can, as I do think it's important to see if Commodore's additional tech boasts the same quality as its microcomputer range. Plus, while the brand is currently raving about its phone, I'm sure it's aware that most of its fan base is eagerly awaiting the C64C Ultimate variant, and maybe, just maybe we'll see something Amiga-shaped in the future too.

Swing by the best retro handhelds for ways to take your classic collection on the go.

Using new controllers with retro consoles might sound sacrilegious, but I'd argue modern gamepads can classic setups. Not everyone cares about using authentic accessories, and while I have a massive collection of original gamepads, even I like to kick back with something modern and comfortable that cuts the cord from time to time.

I've been showing people how to use new controllers with retro consoles for decades, and it's now remarkably easy. It feels like only yesterday that I had to conjure up convoluted combinations of adapters or mod systems to grant them modern gamepad abilities, but now, it's as simple as grabbing the right adapter or dongle.

Whether you simply want to use your DualSense with every retro console, or you're looking to grab one of the best retro controllers made today for a specific system, I've got you covered. There are plenty of wireless adapters out there that will pair modern PlayStation and Xbox pads with systems spanning back to the PS1, Sega Genesis, and even NES, and there are workarounds for platforms without an original port dongle.

Choosing a contemporary pad for your old console

I know many of you with a modern console won't have to think about grabbing a controller specific for your retro console. If you've already got a PS5 Dualsense, Xbox Wireless, or even a Switch 2 Pro controller to hand and are hellbent on using it, you're already prepped to pair it with a bunch of old systems.

That said, if you're looking for a pad specifically for a retro setup, you'll want to consider connectivity before grabbing a random controller. Largely speaking, I'd advise sticking with gamepads that use Bluetooth connectivity, as these will boast the best compatibility and lower latency with the wireless adapters and "Retro Receivers" that work with old controller port standards.

Modern Xbox controllers and PlayStation pads like the DualSense use "low energy" Bluetooth when connecting to PCs or smartphones. This is different from the "classic" Bluetooth 2.1 standard used by the DualShock 4 and the Wii U Pro, but that accessory can still connect easily to most adapters and dongles. Things start to get tricky when it comes to the first versions of the Xbox One gamepad, as those rely on a proprietary wireless connection.

Simply put, you will need either "classic" or "BLE" Bluetooth for controllers to work with retro console adapters. Only version three of the Xbox One gamepad (model 1797) will work since it uses the latter, but even accessories using wireless protocols can throw compatibility hurdles at you. For instance, the shiny new Switch 2 controller uses BLE, but Nintendo decided to modify the protocol to block compatibility with other devices.

The good news is that, as long as the gamepad is using Bluetooth, workarounds are on the table. In fact, I've already worked out how to use the Switch 2 GameCube controller with a Blueretro Bluetooth adapter, and it's all thanks to speedy open-source updates via its creator.

Alternatively, there are purpose-made wireless controllers that come with a 2.4GHz adapter. These gamepads will work natively with your old systems since they plug straight into OG ports, and the dongle will translate the signal to something the console's pinout understands. While Bluetooth adapters work in a similar way, using 2.4Ghz can facilitate lower latency since it doesn't have to deal with processing more complicated protocols.

Of course, the above mainly applies if you're aiming to play wirelessly. If, for whatever reason, you'd rather stick with a wired gamepad, you can do so using specialist adapters. However, your options will be pretty limited compared to if you stick with Bluetooth or a specific 2.4GHz controller with its own dongle.

Dongles, adapters, and retro receivers

Providing you've got a Bluetooth controller to hand, or something purpose-made for your old system, we can get thinkin' about sync'n. If you've got a gamepad that fits into the latter box, like the Retro Fighters Hunter for Xbox or even an 8Bitdo M30 2.4Ghz, you'll still be pairing your pad to its dongle in the same manner as standalone Bluetooth options, so bear that in mind if you're confusingly staring at blinking lights right now.

I'll focus on the Bluetooth side of things first, as you'll need to grab the right adapter for your console. The two brands I'd primarily focus on are 8Bitdo and Blueretro, as both make a bunch of dongles that will plug straight into most mainstream systems. There are absolutely gaps, and availability can be spotty on some models, but most of the biggies have a receiver option or a modern gamepad of some kind.

The pairing premise with every adapter I've tried is the same across the board. Each dongle will normally have a sync button designed to find your controller when placed into pairing mode. 2.4Ghz receivers are normally quicker at picking up gamepads since they have their own dedicated channel, whereas Bluetooth pads can take a few seconds.

Naturally, the process of putting your controller into pairing mode will differ across models. Getting the DualSense to pair involves holding the "Share" and middle "PS" buttons until the light bar flashes, whereas the Xbox and Switch 2 Pro controllers have a dedicated sync button at the top that you hold for three seconds.

The big caveat here is that if you pair a Bluetooth controller like the DualSense to something like a retro receiver, you'll then need to repair it with your PS5 afterwards and vice versa. This is one of the main reasons I end up picking up separate retro controllers rather than using one gamepad for every system, as while it only takes a few seconds every time, it's still an extra step in the retro setup rigmarole.

Circling back to wired controllers, the process still involves popping an adapter in your console's port. The difference is that gadgets like the Brook Wingman for SNES have a USB port on the front, allowing you to hook straight up using a cable. Yes, using one of these should, in theory, minimize latency caused by the wireless protocol side of things, but there's naturally still a translation layer to convert inputs to the pinout. Plus, the Super Nintendo version of this adapter is the only one I can find right now, so you won't be doing this with every console.

2.4Ghz vs Bluetooth controllers for retro consoles

Speaking of latency, you might be wondering if there's a huge difference between 2.4Ghz vs Bluetooth controllers when it comes to retro consoles. Having tested both types of wireless pad side by side to measure latency, I can confirm there is a difference, but it's not as impactful as you'd perhaps think.

To get some sort of measurement, I used slow-motion camera footage of my CRT to measure the input delay in milliseconds using the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro and an 8Bitdo Sega Genesis Retro Receiver versus a 2.4GHz M30 gamepad on the same console. The latter was undeniably quicker, registering button presses within 4ms on average. Its Bluetooth rival measured in at 18ms, which is a sizable difference on paper, but didn't feel especially laggy during real use.

In all honesty, if you absolutely need pinpoint precision button presses for speedrunning or serious play, you won't want to be using a wireless controller anyway. Original wired gamepads will ping presses through the controller port pins within a millisecond, so modern pads aren't going to beat that. If you absolutely need to cut the cord, though, 2.4Ghz is the snappiest option, whereas Bluetooth is perfectly serviceable for most players.

What about charging?

There's one massive drawback when it comes to using modern wireless controllers: how do you charge the thing? Your retro console certainly isn't going to provide your pad with enough juice, and even if you could somehow plug a USB cable into your wireless adapter, you'll need an alternative power source to hand.

If you're planning on using the likes of the DualSense with both your PS5 and retro consoles, then you could just ensure you stick to a charging schedule when it's near the modern system. That doesn't solve the issue of playing and charging, though, and for that, you'll really need to use a separate USB power source near your setup. In the past, I've actually grabbed a power bank so that I could keep playing when out of juice, as it felt less awkward than using a power brick and a trailing cable.

I should note that if you count the PS3 and Xbox 360 as retro consoles (they are 20 years old, after all), then those can actually charge your pads. That's largely a PSA for anyone with a Retro Fighters Defender, as while it won't have access to power when paired with a PS1 or PS2, Sony's third console can charge via its front USB ports just like it would with a DualShock 3.

Things to consider

There's nothing stopping you pairing new gamepads with any old system you like using the above methods. However, you'll really want to consider whether each pad is suited to your retro console of choice in terms of ergonomics and features.

For instance, some controllers will have a flat design more in line with early '90s NES, SNES, and Mega Drive pads, whereas others will include modern grips. I find that when playing more contemporary shooters and genres designed with at least the DualShock 2 in mind, playing with something that resembles pads of the era helps provide a more comfortable experience, not to mention the triggers usually feel more suited.

There are also specific features that could hamper functionality in specific consoles. The GameCube serves as the perfect example, as while its analogue triggers aren't used across its entire library, staple adventures like Super Mario Sunshine to take advantage of pressure sensitivity. So long as you think about some of the finer perks and quirks tied to each system and pad before diving in, you should be ready to have an excellent time playing classic games using modern-day buttons.

Take a peek at the best retro handhelds if you'd rather take your collection on the go.

It turns out Sony had plans for a battery-powered PS1 crammed inside a DualShock controller, and it would have been a plug-and-play precursor to the PlayStation Classic. Armed with a memory card slot and a moulded composite video cable, it would have provided the Brazilian market with a way to play ten classic games via a memory card, but "Sony Licensing couldn't get their act together about the royalty terms."

Dubbed the PlayStation PUGA, the retro console Dualshock hybrid features in a talk by legendary game developer Brian 'Biscuit' Watson. Hosted at The Retro Collective vintage computing museum in Chalford, UK, the ex-DMA Design dev spills the beans on their 40-year-long career within the industry, which includes his time at Sony working on PS2 emulation and the cancelled PS1 plug-and-play prototype.

"Yes, it's a PlayStation controller, but it's a PlayStation controller with PS1 inside of it," explains Biscuit as he shows off the prototype. "It worked off batteries; it was specifically for the Brazilian market, because they had import restrictions, so the consoles you could only get on the grey or black market there," adds the Scottish developer.

Elaborating on why the "PUGA" was intended for Brazil, the industry veteran explains that by manufacturing the PS1 plug-and-play in the country, "you got around a lot of their import regulations." This is a strategy that has been used throughout console history, with the likes of Sega teaming up with Samsung to make Mega Drive and Master System consoles in South Korea due to Japanese import bans.

Sadly, Biscuit says the prototype he has to hand no longer works as he doesn't have the software to get it out of debug mode. When it was functional, though, the developer says, "it really was working really well! We had about ten games on a 4GB card," but laments that the project was ultimately cancelled due to licensing issues.

"The unfortunate problem is that Sony licensing couldn't get their act together about the royalty terms for each of the games." That is to be expected when dealing with third-party developers, and Bisucit touches on Rockstar and "a few other places" wanting too much in terms of royalties. However, the dev says that "even if it was a Sony game, they had to negotiate with a separate unit of Sony, and they were never happy about how much royalties they were getting."

To add salt to the wound, Biscuit says that due to the cheap MSRP, the royalties would have been roughly 10 cents per unit, but the internal disputes were enough to end development. "I almost left Sony over that one," he admits, while revealing that it's the first project he worked on that was cancelled.

Delving into specs, the developer reveals that it uses a TI-OMAP 3530 system-on-a-chip with an ARM CPU, meaning it's effectively an older version of the MediaTek MT8167A chipset within the PS1 Classic. While it also appears to have a DC jack in the centre next to its composite video cable and memory card slot, it also has space for four AA batteries around back, and that's apparently enough to keep it running for 20 hours.

Yes, the PlayStation PUGA sounds like it'd be closer to one of those cheap plug-and-play consoles from the 2000s shaped like SpongeBob or a questionable Spider-Man appendage. Yet, the software was later used in the Sony Xperia Play, and I can't help but feel like Sony was doing more to provide access to the classics even in the early 2010s, even if that phone hybrid was a flop.

Given the news this week that Sony will end PlayStation disc production in 2028, it feels like it won't be returning to more physical ideas like the PUGA or even the PS1 Classic anytime soon. Yes, the company's mini console has its issues, but it and its cancelled plug-and-play predecessor at least felt like more of an effort to preserve some sort of offline physicality, and that's something we'll desperately need as we sail to an always online digital future.

Check out the best retro handhelds if you're itching to play PlayStation classics on the go.

PlayStation just got a taste of its own medicine for choosing to end physical PS5 discs in 2028, but it's not Xbox getting revenge. Instead, it's Evercade cartridge maker Blaze taking shots at Sony with a satirical homage to the company's "this is how you share your games on PS4" campaign, and the gag has never been more relevant.

Just like the original PlayStation video from 13 years ago, Blaze has shared a "This is how you share a game on Evercade" tutorial on its social channels. In the clip, the retro handheld maker's head of communications, Sean Cleaver, hands a physical copy of the Neo Geo collection to marketing manager Ben Grunbaum. The result? Absolute cinema.

Naturally, this video is just a bit of fun, but it serves the same pro-physical media purpose as the 2014 clip with former PlayStation president Shuhei Yoshida (who just shared a Steam Machine review, FYI) and then vice president Adam Boyes. Just like if Microsoft went through with its DRM plans that would have tied physical Xbox One games to an internet connection, ditching discs altogether brings an end to simply handing friends and family the games you paid for.

I can say without a doubt that if it weren't for borrowing games from friends, renting from video stores, and buying second-hand, I would not be in this job. Gaming as a hobby would have been financially out of the question in my working-class household, and that's why I will fight to keep physical media alive and advocate for preservation.

Of course, if any modern retro console maker were going to start shouting about physical media in response to Sony, it'd be Blaze. We're talking about a company that has built its own physical cartridge ecosystem over six years, and there are now over 500 ports of games spread across multiple cased releases with their own manuals.

Not only that, but Blaze has managed to create a specific piece of hardware for every playstyle that will work with its carts. The range includes everything from the very affordable Super Pocket, the same handheld that just got Banjo-Kazooie via a Rare Edition, to an Evercade VS-R home console designed for your TV, and even an Evercade Alpha bartop arcade machine that puts its rivals to shame thanks to its physical game support.

Naturally, Blaze is a different beast to PlayStation, and while there's crossover when it comes to retro games, Sony's platform is arguably more complex. That's not to say I think it has a right to end physical media, but it will have a bunch of reasons at the ready for an all-digital future, some of which will include controlling what you do with your games.

Where Blaze could really benefit from taking the physical media fight to Sony is by releasing more classics that you could also buy on a PS5. You can already buy even some of the PS1's biggest hits for your Evercade, including the Tomb Raider Trilogy, so the retro console maker could snatch players who'd normally buy said oldies in disc form.

The Evercade could also become a haven for Indie games, especially since it already has a bunch of collections by Mega Cat Studios and Bitmap Bureau, and since the upcoming Evercade Nexus boasts beefier specs, it could welcome more elaborate outings to its library. I'll be keeping a close eye on the company as we sail towards an all-digital mainstream future, and I'm hoping remaining physical rivals throw Sony's plans off course.

Take a peek at the best retro controllers if your old system needs a fresh pad.

Sorry, 3DO fans, but it looks like the underdog '90s console isn't getting a comeback after all. While resurrected publisher Empire Interactive was originally set on "remastering retro games" and eventually figuring out how to bring back the hardware itself as a mini system, it turns out the company lacks the required rights.

In a downbeat black and white Linkedin post, Empire Interactive explains why the recently announced 3DO project is now cancelled. "After careful consideration, we have decided to abandon both the console production and the idea of remastering retro games," announces the publisher before explaining, "the reason for this decision is the emergence of multiple parties claiming ownership rights over both the games and console manufacturing process."

This is the part where I pretend to be surprised that the 3DO revival isn't happening, and I figured remaking the best retro console contender would be a minefield even if it does go ahead. After all, the hardware itself was originally made by third parties like Panasonic and LG, and it turns out Empire Interactive has only acquired the rights to "The 3DO Company."

In an email to Time Extension, Empire Interactive's newfound "founder", Işık Şekercigil, admits, "We acquired the rights to The 3DO Company brand, not the 3DO console brand. Although they may seem identical, they are legally different." The publisher's boss then explains that the trademark is registered "under The 3DO Company and is limited to the game development and publishing category. It does not include console manufacturing or any hardware technology development."

Yes, the 3DO is the tangled spaghetti monster of rights and trademarks you'd expect given how many entities were originally involved. It sounds like Empire Interactive indeed only has "The 3DO company" name established by EA founder Trip Hawkins under its belt, rather than any specific games or consoles.

Whether that name even covers releases published by The 3DO Company in the 2000s, like the Army Men games or Portal Runner for the PS2, remains to be seen. However, Empire Interactive says, "Given the niche nature of this market and the likelihood of prolonged legal disputes, we have chosen not to engage in lengthy legal proceedings. Instead, we will focus our efforts on developing our own next-generation games."

Effectively, it sounds like any plans for projects with the 3DO branding are now dead in the water. The other rights owners contesting Empire Interactive's claims, Throwback Entertainment and former Limited Run CEO Josh Fairhurst, may yet shed further insight into who owns what. Nevertheless, if you're itching to try the failed OG '90s console for yourself, your best bet is to check out how to connect a retro console to a new TV or monitor and dust off the real deal.

Swing by the best retro handhelds if you'd rather play 3DO classics outside this summer.

At this point, I'm not even surprised to hear someone's trying to revive the 3DO. If you'd asked me a few years ago whether one of the most obscure consoles of the 1990s would be making a comeback in 2026, I'd have laughed my novelty Sonic socks off. However, digging through the hardware history drawer for things to "bring back" is all the rage in the roaring 20s, but something fishy is going on with this particular retro resurrection.

I first caught wind that the 3DO was ready to re-enter the best retro console race on Monday thanks to the folks at Time Extension. The annoucement showed up in the form of a strangely dry annoucement by Empire Interactive on LinkedIn, with the UK publisher revealing that it had obtained the "trademark and selected intellectual property rights of The 3DO Company."

If you're unfamiliar with The 3DO Company, here's a flyby history lesson. Originally started by EA founder Trip Hawkins, the business originally set out to take on Nintendo and Sega in the "console wars", and was financed by third parties and manufacturers like Panasonic, AT&T, Time Warner, and LG.

Yes, that's why you'll commonly see the "Panasonic 3DO" sitting side by side with other '90s systems, and it technically was the first 3D console on the scene. But its monstrous $700 MSRP, quirks with the underlying company's business model, and the eventual release of the PS1, prompted the venture to abandon hardware and pivot to software publishing before eventually filing for bankruptcy in 2003.

Here's where things get interesting, as in that same LinkedIn post, former Limited Run Games CEO Josh Fairhurst extends an invite to the "new 3DO" to license some of its biggest hits, stating, "I own the rights!" That collection includes Night Trap, Sewer Shark, Corpse Killer, Quarterback Attack, and Supreme Warrior, which are all games I'd closely associate with the OG console, but it is worth noting the OG publisher itself was also behind series like Might and Magic and Army Men.

Here's where things get fishy, as Empire Interactive previously closed its doors in 2009 after entering administration. Therefore, we've technically got two revivals on our hands, and the publisher that now allegedly owns the 3DO trademark is being run by someone called Işık Şekercigil.

Little is actually known about Şekercigil, and I certainly couldn't find any record of their career online. Speaking to Time Extension, the self-proclaimed "founder" of Empire Interactive admits, "my professional background does not originate from the retro gaming era," but does say they are an enthusiast.

"My expertise lies in the modern mobile gaming sector." Explains Şekercigil. "As a video game developer and executive, I have spent years working within the mobile industry in Turkey, managing teams and holding leadership roles in several mobile gaming companies that achieved multi-million and billion-dollar valuations (unicorns) from their inception to their peak."

Şekercigil goes on to say they acquired the Empire Interactive trademark "through a legal firm" while clarifying, "we acquired the brand asset rather than an active portfolio of intellectual properties." The whole backstory here has my eyebrow firmly raised, and the apparent battle plan for the future is even weirder.

As of this moment, the new Empire Interactive hasn't revealed which 3DO IPs it owns, something Şekercigil describes as deliberate. What we do know is that since it is apparently holding "active negotiations for one of the major, historic 3DO properties", one of the OG console's biggest releases isn't part of that list, and the publisher is seemingly discussing licensing with "several lesser-known companies and independent individuals" who hold the rights to games.

I can't help but feel like Empire Interactive is working back-to-front with its 3DO revival. I'd love to delve into Şekercigil's comments on releasing both a new retro console in the same vein as the Sega Genesis Mini, but whether or not Empire Interactive actually has the rights to the 3DO has now been thrown into question.

Time Extension says another company named Throwback Entertainment claims it owns the branding, assets, and the website domain, stating, "These assets have not been sold, transferred, or licensed to Empire Interactive, and there are no plans for them to be sold."

Josh Fairhurst also chimed back in to back up the idea that the 3DO trademark hasn't been sold. While the former Limited Run Games CEO did initially reach out to the publisher via the aforementioned comment, he has since clarified, "I did that before I had a chance to research the situation. I'm currently of the opinion that this is not legitimate or will be highly contested, at the very least."

It's safe to say my head hurts following this 3DO situation, and it has put the spotlight on what looks to be a tangled web of licensing, rights, and trademarks. I'd be highly surprised if we even hear about new ports of games off the back of whatever Empire Interactive has acquired any time soon, and even if multiple parties weren't already contesting who owns the rights, actually making a tiny version of something that looks like OG Panasonic or LG hardware is a whole other minefield.

Your best bet for now? Find a real 3DO out in the wild and give it a nice retirement home.

If you'd rather play your classics backlog on the go, swing by the best retro handhelds for portable emulators.

All you big Banjo-Kazooie fanatics probably don't need another reason to grab the new Rare Super Pocket, but you can add hidden music tracks to your list. That's right, the shiny new budget handheld is hiding over 20 songs that didn't make it to the final cut of the N64 classic or Banjo-Tooie, but you will have to roll credits to hear them on the actual portable.

Haven't completed Banjo-Kazooie on the Super Pocket Rare Edition yet? Fear not, as not only did speedrunner TSR Stormed unearth the hidden jukebox, but they have also uploaded each song to YouTube (cheers, VGC). That will save you from unlocking "one of the Stop n Swop items after beating the game," but it's also an act of public service for those of you who haven't got the retro handheld in your possession.

I don't feel too bad not discovering this first, given that TSR Stormed is a speedrunner. Let's just say I've spent too much time comparing this new Banjo-Kazooie port on the Super Pocket to my actual N64, as it's wild seeing what was once a cutting-edge 3D caper running on a portable you can grab for $70. Yes, it is using a fairly basic 2.8-inch IPS display, but the resulting visuals punch well above their price weight.

Admittedly, I would rather use the OG N64 gamepad or an alternative retro controller (looking at you, 8Bitdo N64 Bluetooth controller) to finish Banjo-Kazooie for the zillionth time in 28 years. As much as I love every version of the Super Pocket I've tested to date, its GameBoy-inspired controls and compact shoulder buttons are a little cramped. Rare has tailored the handheld version's mapping to make up for the lack of a thumbstick and other differences, though, so everything from sneaking to pulling off jumps in the handheld version still feels natural.

You can rest assured I will be putting my important plans (largely playing old Windows 95 games in Glide mode) on hold this evening to try and finish Banjo on the handheld. Doing so will let me kick back and listen to early versions of the Mumbo Mountain and Treasure Trove Cove theme, as well as tracks like "Funfair" and "Lava World" that were recycled for Banjo-Tooie.

The big golden puzzle piece left unanswered is whether the hidden jukebox will be included in the Evercade Banjo-Kazooie collection when the cart arrives this October, or if we'll end up with other hidden Stop 'N' Swop treats. I'd like to think that anyone who grabs the double-pack, or even the Evercade Nexus bundle for $199.99, will get a little something extra, and I'll certainly be hunting across the Isle o' Hags for secrets.

Take a peek at the best retro consoles for full-fat systems you can hook up to your modern TV.

On Friday, the Ayaneo Pocket Micro 2 got its official unveiling in a live stream, and it's anything but a complete redesign. I admittedly figured we'd get more of a physical retro handheld refresh, but instead, this new Game Boy Micro homage elevates the original device and makes a case for "candybar" portables with high specs.

Starting at $239, the Ayaneo Pocket Micro 2 looks almost like its predecessor, with only subtle tweaks like recessed TMR thumbsticks and extended curved shoulder buttons serving as differentiators. At a glance, you'll probably struggle to play Spot the Difference between these two 3.5-inch 960x640 IPS display-wielding portables, but make no mistake, the sequel is a different beast under the hood.

Accompanying the 3.5-inch screen this time around is a custom Snapdragon 865-Class chipset with Adreno 650 graphics, which apparently represents a 220% performance uplift over the original's MediaTek Helio G99 processor. It's got a beefier 3,950 mAh battery to keep things juiced up too, but while it's 52% larger, the extra capacity could be guzzled by the enhanced specs.

I've got mixed feelings about some of the Pocket Micro 2's tweaks, most notably the recessed joysticks. Embedding the sticks will help make the portable more pocket-friendly, but at the same time, I struggle to get on with similar setups included in the likes of the Ayaneo Flip DS.

I'm also worried that by sticking with the candy bar format of the OG Game Boy Micro, Ayaneo is about to fall into the same ergonomic trap as last time. Holding onto an angular rectangle will never be as comfortable as using something with grips, and I'm surprised the sequel doesn't use a slightly morphed design. Ideally, I would have enjoyed seeing something more like the OG GBA this time around, but I also respect keeping this specific niche genre of mid 2000s handheld alive.

One of the nice perks you may have missed is that, this time around, the Micro Pocket 2 is armed with a 3.5mm headphone jack. Android-powered MP3 players with integrated DACs are making a massive comeback, so you could say Ayaneo's new portable doubles up as an alternative to pricey DAP (Digital Audio Player) devices.

Circling back to price, the cheapest Pocket Micro 2 will set you back $239 with a $30 launch discount, and that's the version with 6GB VRAM and 128GB storage. There's also an 8GB + 256GB model for $279 that comes in the same Midnight Black and Frosty White flavors, but you'll have to pay $309 for the GameCube-inspired Stardust Purple portable (sigh).

Eventually, those prices will jump to $269, $309, and $339, respectively. That's the norm for Ayaneo handhelds, so if you do feel like the Pocket Micro 2 is destined to be your next portable, you're better off getting in there early.

• Retro handhelds at Amazon
• Retro consoles at Amazon

Looking to play the oldies at home? Swing by the best retro consoles and best retro controllers to enhance your classic system setup.

2026 has been a rough year for hardware prices in general; however, I've been genuinely shocked by the amount of decent Prime Day retro gaming deals that I've seen this week. From price cuts on some of the best retro consoles like the Atari 2600+ to discounts on the Miyoo Mini Plus, we have been spoiled for choice. However, if you set consoles aside for a second, you can also find some very cheap deals for your retro gaming needs, and I've rounded up the top offerings, all under $30.

I will say that, below, most of the deals are for controllers and accessories, and (just for fun) I've even thrown in a Tamagotchì shout-out. There are plenty of deals on retro consoles and handhelds currently live if you have the cash. However, none of the top retro handhelds that we personally recommend are going for under $30 at the moment. There are some cheaper alternative handheld options, but I've decided to only include one here because, taking into account build quality and other factors, you'll really be getting a better bang for your buck with one of the best retro handhelds instead, like a Super Pocket or Anbernic RG28XX.

So, if you are in the market to elevate your current retro gaming experience, are looking for a gift, or want to pick up some extra bits you may be missing, then read on! These are the greatest, cheapest retro gaming deals that Prime Day has to offer.

For more savings check out our guides on the best Prime Day gaming deals and the best Switch 2 Prime Day deals.

Prime Day is a great time to pick up discounts on gaming, though this time around, Amazon has to contend with going head-to-head with the long-awaited GTA 6 pre-orders (even with physical editions just being a code in a box instead of on disc). There are even some Prime Day deals for getting GTA 6-ready before November's launch date. But I say, while you wait, why not catch up on some classics instead of sweating it about new game FOMO?

Not everything you play has to be the newest game. But, also, not everything retro you play has to be completely old, either. Over this year's Prime Day gaming deals, I've noticed a large number of retro game remakes and remasters. Ranging from faithful ports and recreations to luscious rebuilds, there's a variety of approaches to the same thing: retro games can just be rad.

Below, I've collected together the remakes and remasters I genuinely think are well worth playing, many of which are at some of the lowest prices I've seen yet. I've focused on some true classics here, but have also included a couple of redos of some more recent games, and a couple of throwbacks as well. Mainly because I also think those games are great, and if you like the other retro recommendations, then I think you'd like those too. Any excuse for me to celebrate all things retro. Read on for my Prime Day retro remakes and remaster deals below!

Want more? Check out the best Prime Day PS5 RPG deals too!

Prime Day retro gaming deals aren't always fantastic, but as someone who's got years of classic console experience, I can confirm this year's sale is worthwhile. While discounts on some gadgets, like retro handhelds, are trickier to find right now thanks to component shortages, I've already highlighted over 50 unique offers on systems, accessories, controllers, and a bunch more gizmos.

Okay, here's my self-brief: I'm going to be carefully picking out all the best retro consoles and accessories to go with as Prime Day unfolds. That includes everything from affordable retro handhelds to plug-and-play systems and remakes that boast HDMI output. I'll also be keeping an eye out for upscalers that can make your original systems look the part, but only if the right prices emerge.

Yes, I'm absolutely going to shun any Prime Day gaming deals that aren't actually deals. Instead, the only Prime Day retro gaming deals I'll allow to reach this feed are bona fide bargains or discounts well worth pursuing for your setup. I'll also be primarily giving the thumbs up to retro tech I've tested extensively, and given that I live and breathe old consoles, you should brace yourself for lots of great bits.

Quick links

US

• Accessories: Replacement shells and cases from $10
• Handhelds: Portable systems from $40
• Consoles: Atari remakes from $100
• Controllers: GameSir Pocket Taco is now under $30
• Games: Up to 33% off Evercade cartirdges

UK

• Accessories: Storage and cables for under £10
• Handhelds: Emulation consoles for under £40
• Consoles: 28% off C64 Mini Black Edition
• Controllers: Gulikit Elves 2 Pro now under £30
• Games: Evercade cartridges from £15

Best Prime Day retro gaming deals

Live updates

Let's get the retro party started (it's also a certain blue blur's birthday)

You're probably well aware that Prime Day is underway, and I'm hellbent on finding retro gaming deals that aren't just cheap, nasty NES clones, crummy handhelds, or systems with horrendous price hikes. There are absolutely discounts out there, and since I spend most of my earthly hours checking out classic systems and modern ways to play, I'm well equipped to pick out the real offers.

Prime Day isn't the only thing happening today, though; Sonic the Hedgehog's 35th Anniversary is also underway! As a gift to the blue blur, I've already made him a special homage that shows off my original Sega Genesis setup, so make sure to check that out while I present you with decent retro deals as they happen.

Speaking of the Sega Genesis, my favorite gamepad is under $30

The timing of this specific Prime Day deal is impeccable, as the 8Bitdo M30 is the specific retro controller I use to "get gud" at Sonic 2. It's currently under $30 thanks to a 20% discount, which feels like a fitting gift for Mr Needlemouse's big day. I should point out, though, that this is the Bluetooth version, so you'll want to grab a retro receiver to pair with an actual Sega Genesis. The fantastic news is that the dongle is also down to $14.99 at Amazon, and it means you can use the pad with OG hardware and modern systems like the Switch 2.

8Bitdo M30 Bluetooth controller | $29.99 $23.99 at Amazon

If you buy just one retro accessory for your setup, make it the OSSC for under $100

Shouting at anyone of the retro gaming persuasion to buy an OSSC during Prime Day is a personal tradition. This year is no exception, and I'm delighted to see the HDMI upscaling "line doubler" dip under $100 for the sale. If you're new to playing classic games on actual hardware, and you've been wondering how to connect retro consoles to new TVs and monitors, this gadget will kickstart your journey, and if your old system of choice supports RGB scart cables, you'll be able to hook straight up to your screen.

McBazel OSSC HDMI upscaler | $111.99 $89.59 at Amazon

The Super Pocket is neat, but finding the Neo Geo version for under $50 is neater

I've tested all the best retro handhelds around, and the Super Pocket sits pretty at the top of my list. I mean, it's a portable that uses physical cartridges in 2026 and costs less than most Switch games, and there's now even a Rare Edition that can run Banjo-Kazooie. If you're more into classic arcade fighters, like King of Fighters and Fatal Fury, I've just found the perfect version for you, as the Neo Geo flavor is under $50 thanks to Prime Day.

It's the same great handheld that runs Evercade carts, but the Neo Geo Super Pocket specifically pays homage to SNK's legendary library of fighters and shooters like Metal Slug. Even if you're not fussed about the classic black and gold getup and built-in game collection, this variant is cheaper than all the rest right now, and that in itself is a reason to snatch it up.

Super Pocket Neo Geo Edition | $69.99 $49.99 at Amazon

MagicX's excellent Nintendo DS emulation portable just nose-dived

I've tried really hard to find deals on the MagicX Zero 40 during past Prime Day sales to no avail, but the handheld Nintendo DS homage just took a 20% hit. That means it's sitting just above $60, and it could be a cheaper solution to running your old cartridges on something with a nicer, vertical display that provides the right dual-screen format. It's more like one of those weird door wedge 2DS portables from the 2010s than the OG clamshell, but having played all my favorites on one, I can confirm it's an excellent alternative.

MagicX Zero 40 | $75.99 $60.79 at Amazon

RAMageddon is impacting retro handheld prices, but Prime Day is helping

Let's be real, 2026 is not a great time for picking up any hardware, as AI datacentres are driving up the price of components and memory. That naturally impacts the price of retro handhelds too, and brands like Retroid and Ayn have already signalled that things are tough. It's for that reason that I was worried there'd be no discount opportunities this year, but Prime Day is making a different to the overall pricing of portables.

I'll be sharing any worthwhile retro handheld deals that pop up, but I've always stumbled across some surprises. I wasn't expecting the previously shared MagicX Zero 40 to take a cut, and while I was hoping the Super Pocket would dip under $50, I wasn't convinced it would since Blaze, a UK company, is subject to US tariffs. In any case, it looks like savings are on the menu, so watch this space for some nice emulation offers.

Retro handheld offers at Amazon

I've found a potential cure for jittery PS2 visuals

I'm continually searching for ways to improve my retro setup, and while the OSSC does a great job upscaling my old consoles, the PS2 gives me a headache. That's because it uses an interlaced signal, meaning that when it's converted to progressive scan, you get an annoying flickering effect.

Therefore, I've decided to take advantage of a Prime Deal on the ODV-GBS-C, an alternative HDMI upscaler that features motion-adaptive de-interlacing. I'll be sharing full thoughts on the gadget once I get some testing in, but I'm hoping it'll help provide steadier PS2 visuals while serving as a secondary hub for other screens in my house (yes, my entire home is overrun with retro consoles.)

ODV-GBS-C HDMI upscaler | $89.90 $71.92 at Amazon

Should you save your money for a CRT TV?

As a certified CRT TV nerd, I frequently get emails and messages from readers asking whether you should buy an HDMI upscaler for your console and use it with a new screen, or try and acquire an old tube set. The latter approach will provide you with an extremely authentic setup, complete with real scanlines, pixel separation, and the right glow for visuals made decades ago.

That said, using old screens comes with massive caveats. For starters, if you don't want to pay over the odds for one in decent condition, you'll have to get lucky with finding one on the curb side or risk having one delivered via an online marketplace like eBay. I'd strongly advise against the latter as someone who has had to repair damaged sets over time, and sometimes just wear and tear can be the death of a CRT.

Simply put, if you're hellbent on enjoying the most authentic visuals possible, chance your arm at grabbing a CRT. Otherwise, if you manage to pinch a great Prime Day monitor deal instead, an HDMI upscaler like the OSSC or GBS-C could help you achieve nice results, especially if you bag an OLED panel.

Psst, the N64 released 30 years ago today!

Not only is Sonic celebrating his 35th birthday, but the N64 30th anniversary is underway! Yes, Ninty's first 3D console released three decades ago today in Japan, so you've got another reason to retrieve your old system from the attic and pair it with some new accessories this Summer.

I'll be highlighting some specific deals and covering how to even arm your N64 HDMI if you're up for a bit of modding. If you've already splashed out on the 4K Analogue 3D, then there are still plenty of ways to spice up your setup, so stay tuned for discounts on all the gadgets and gizmos I use at home.

N64 accessories at Amazon

The 8Bitdo controller I use with the N64 has been Prime Day'd

I feel like I spend too much time staring at the 8Bitdo N64 controller waiting for a price dop, and Prime Day is coming through with some savings. The grey version I'd buy purely so it matches the original pad isn't technically a subscriber deal, but it is under $40 right now. The older (and blander) white version is the cheapest option at $33.99, but honestly? I'd hold off for a better offer on that since I've spotted it for under $30 in the past.

Once again, these are the Bluetooth versions, so you'll need an adapter for the original system. If you're solely interested in playing on the '90s machine, you'll want toe 2.4Ghz model for $39.99 since it's got a dongle.

8Bitdo N64 Bluetooth controller (grey) | $44.99 $38.24 at Amazon

Sticking with the classics could help you get over the Steam Machine's wild price

This week, Valve finally revealed that the Steam Machine starts at $1,049, and I'd be lying if I said it didn't bum me out. If anything, it's shifted my brain to largely thinking about my retro setup and distracting myself with classic capers, so it's nice that Prime Day has some deals to help out in that department.

In fact, I reckon focussing on retro consoles and avoiding the latest tech until prices calm down is a wise move. There are hundreds of oldies out there to play while RAMageddon reeks havoc, and even something as low-key as a new wireless retro controller could help you dive back into your long forgotten PS2 backlog.

Watch this space for Atari remake deals

I feel like discounting systems like the Atari 2600+ is a no-brainer, but Prime Day hasn't gotten around to price cuts yet. The only offer I'm seeing is on the Pac-Man version, but it'll still set you back more than the base system. Unless you're really into the limited edition yellow variant, or fear it'll go out of stock and then subsequently up in price, I'd hold off to see what the week ahead has planned.

Atari 2600+ Pac-Man Edition | $169.99 $139.34 at Amazon

The Retron GX isn't the perfect PC Engine remake, but it'll kick start a new console collection for under $50

I'd be lying if I said the Hyperkin Retro GX is a flawless HDMI version of the PC Engine/Turbografx-16. The issue is that back when I initially tested the retro console, its physical cartridge compatibility was spotty, but now that it's under $50, I reckon it's easier to look past any teething issues it has with select games. Ultimately, you're still getting a box that'll play a bunch of vintage games without faffing with any ROMs, and it comes with a remake of NEC's controller. It'll at least get you started before investing in the real deal or splashing out on the Analogue Duo, as both are pricey in 2026.

Hyperkin Retron GX | $66.35 $49.99 at Amazon

I was worried when my go-to Game Boy controller leaped up in price, but Prime Day has saved the day

For a hot moment, I thought the GameSir Pocket Taco wasn't playing ball this Prime Day. Earlier today, the mobile Game Boy controller lost its on-page coupon, then leaped back up to $35 just in time for the sale. I figured that meant it was sitting this one out, but it's now down to an even lower $27.99, which just so happens to be its lowest price yet. While this gamepad's main objective is adding physical buttons to your phone, its Bluetooth abilities mean it also serves as a nice, authentic-feeling pad for playing on consoles, or even a docked Analogue Pocket, too.

GameSir Pocket Taco | $44.99 $27.99 at Amazon

Prime Day has you covered for Bluetooth Retro Receivers

If you're planning on grabbing a Bluetooth retro controller over Prime for your old consoles, you'll need some sort of adapter. 8Bitdo has made a dongle for virtually every system out there, and the subscriber sale has slashed the price of most of the brand's wireless gizmos. In theory, that means you can grab a solid pad like the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro and use it with every machine via a retro receiver, which will save you picking up separate gamepads down the road.

8Bitdo Retro Receivers:

NES | $24.99 $17.74 at Amazon
PS1/PS2 | $24.99 $19.99 at Amazon
N64 | $24.99 $19.99 at Amazon
Genesis | $19.99 $14.99 at Amazon
GameCube | $24.99 $19.99 at Amazon

I'll be spending the N64's 30th birthday week playing ROM hacks and unreleased games (and you should too)

If you have an original Nintendo 64 to hand as the system turns 30, you've no doubt already thought about flash carts. They can help you play prototypes of unreleased games like Dinosaur Planet (which later became Starfox Adventures) or ROM hacks like Zelda Ultimate Trial.

Effectively, you could spend hours playing games that weren't a thing in the '90s on your N64 today, and the Summercart64 will help you do just that. Prime Day has knocked the flash cart to just over $70, and while that sounds pricey, it comes with everything you'll need to start playing some of the best ROMs out there.

Summercart64 flash cart | $82.99 $70.39 at Amazon

PSA: Don't fall for questionable emulation sticks and handhelds this Prime Day

Prime Day can be great for nabbing deals on excellent retro consoles and handhelds, but there are plenty of stinkers at Amazon's storefront. Not only will they try and lure you with the promise of hundreds of illegally obtained ROMs included, but the devices more often than not struggle to run classics due to their low specs. Plus, the low build quality means you may end up having to return a bunch of plastic for a refund, and no one wants that sort of faff.

Simply put, if you want to make sure you get a deal the right retro hardware, stick with my recommendations.

My go-to "universal" retro controller 15% cheaper for Prime

I've spent a lot of time testing new retro controllers with old consoles in 2026, and the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro stands out as a "Jack of all trades". Yes, you'll need to pair it with retro receivers since it's a Bluetooth gamepad, but its excellent disc-shaped d-pad and dual hall-effect thumb sticks mean it serves as a great pad for everything from the SNES to the PS2.

Gulikit Elves 2 Pro | $39.99 $33.99 at Amazon

I stand by calling the Evercade Alpha the best arcade machine, especially when it's under $200

Compact at-home arcade machines aren't anything new, but the Evercade Alpha completely changed the playing field in 2024. Rather than banking on a select few games from a specific series and calling it a day, this bartop cabinet instead runs Evercade cartridges, on top of including classics tied in with an authentic getup.

The specific version featured in my review is the Street Fighter model, and I'd argue it's the best flavor. Better still, it's the specific variant that's included in this year's Prime Day roundup, as it's now under $200 thanks to a 29% discount. I know that sounds like a lot, but you're getting a commendable 8-inch IPS display, proper Sanwa arcade switches, and even touches like USB ports on the front for external controllers. My only real gripe with the Alpha is its lack of HDMI output, but then again, it functions as its own all-in-one retro gaming station.

Evercade Alpha Street Fighter Edition | $279.99 $199.99 at Amazon

Do you need to buy ANYTHING new for your retro consoles?

The answer is both yes and no.

No, if you've got a fully functional CRT, original gamepads that are still in working order, and all the right cables, you won't have to spend an additional dime.

If you've got a screen from the past 15 years, though, and want to give old graphics a chance to look right, you'll need to part with some cash. That doesn't mean you have to go bananas this Prime Day, and if you've got a more mature LCD display with analogue inputs, you might be happy letting your TV do all the upscaling and digital conversion. That will lead to scrappier-looking results that suffer from stretched aspect ratios, blurry pixels, and latency, which is why it's best to at least explore even some of the cheaper HDMI adapters.

On the controller side of things, I also spend a lot of time refurbishing old gamepads. If you're savvy with taking old accessories apart and spucing them up, that could save you some pennies, but otherwise, you might end up with sticky buttons and drifty sticks. In that instance, it's sometimes better just to buy a box-fresh modern alternative with new features and capabilities, as there are plenty of options out there that can plug straight into everything from the SNES and Genesis to the PS2.

The Logitech K400 Plus is a keyboard I love to hate, but it'll save your bacon when setting up a Windows 98/XP retro PC

The Logitech K400 Plus is one of the only couch keyboards out there, but everyone agrees its a naff keeb. Put it this way, if you have one, it's not for the typing experience, and I have one for using PCs in the living room.

Recently, however, I've discovered that it's actually a godsend when fixing up a '90s or early 2000s retro PC. Unlike every other USB board in my house, the K400 Plus will work without any additional drivers, meaning you can navigate the BIOS without booting into older operating systems like Windows 98 or XP. As far as these old machines are concerned. The 2.4GHz is a traditional wired connection, and while you might need to turn on USB support in the BIOS to enable all the function keys, it'll have your back when restoring old rigs.

If that sounds like something you'll need, or if you're planning on snagging an old machine in response to absurd Steam Machine prices, you'll be pleased to hear the K400 Plus is under $25 for Prime Day (you're welcome).

Logitech K400 Plus 2.4Ghz keyboard + touchpad | $34.99 $23.74 at Amazon

I thought my modded N64 controller was rad, but there's a more advanced thumb stick by 8Bitdo with a Prime Day discount

Not many original Nintendo 64 joysticks made it out of the '90s alive, and you've got swinging Bowser around in Super Mario 64 for that. The issue is that some of the first replacement sticks had accuracy issues, so I was delighted when I finally upgraded my Gamepad with Hyperkin's hall-effect joystick.

Not only does the hall-effect tech remove any risk of traditional stick drift, but the new PCB inside produces readings close to the OG potentiometer. However, that must have got 8Bitdo's back up, as it now has a TMR thumbstick included in this year's Prime Day sale. Both types of tech use similar magnetic solutions, but TMR measures changes in magnetic resistance rather than just detecting magnets using a sensor, which technically allows for better sensitivity.

I haven't tested the TMR stick yet, so I can't say whether it offers good accuracy in N64 games. I'd be surprised if it doesn't, though, and I'd probably just grab one if your Nintendo 64 joystick has crumbled.

8Bitdo TMR N64 joystick | $19.99 $15.99 at Amazon
Hyperkin Hall effect N64 joystick | $19.99 $14.99 at Amazon

Three classic Tomb Raider romps and an Evercade handheld for under $100? *Yoink*

The Evercade may feel like it's designed to run older 2D arcade outings, but there's a version of the EXP-R that's bundled with Tomb Raider. Prime Day has done us a solid and knocked the handheld and the three original games down to $89.99, and that marks a new record-low price. It's worth noting the vanilla version with no carts included or games built in costs a $130, so you know what to do if you've been eyeing up the portable.

Evercade EXP-R + Tomb Raider collection | $129.99 $89.99 at Amazon

No, you won't find Analogue 3D deals this Prime Day

I don't want to burst anyone's bubble, but if you've been waiting for Amazon's Prime Day sale to pick up the Analogue 3D for less, that's not going to happen. For starters, you can only buy one directly from the FPGA console maker's site, and you should be wary of inflated listings at Amazon by nefarious resellers.

To some of you, this will be a "duh" moment, but I've been asked by a few people whether the Analogue 3D will show up for less during annual sales. So, this is me shouting the answer on the internet for all to hear, but I'll still be serving up accessories and mods that will help modernize your real N64, even if 4K visuals aren't on the table.

Who needs the Steam Machine when you can pop a modern cartridge-using console under your TV?

Okay, I'm joking, the Evercade VS-R isn't going to make up for Valve's Steam Machine price. If you're looking to go back to using cartridges on a new-age retro console that plugs into your TV, though, you'll want to nab the system while it's under $80 for Prime Day.

This system has stayed solidly at full price for the past six months, so I'm pretty chuffed to see it nose-dive to a new record low. That said, you will need some carts to pop in its dual slots, so I'd have a nosy at Prime Day's Evercade game offering too white you're at it.

Evercade VS-R | $119.99 $79.99 at Amazon

I'm begging Retro Fighters to throw some controllers into Prime Day, but it ain't happening

This is my official plea to Retro Fighters, a company that makes some outstanding wireless gamepad remakes, or any sellers with stock, to get in on Prime Day. The brand is dominating my best retro controllers list for a good reason, as its OG Xbox Hunter, PlayStation Defender, and Dreamcast StrikerDC are all worth of replacing your official wired accessories.

So far, I haven't found any of the Retro Fighters 2.4Ghz line-up at Amazon with a discount. I'll keep looking at the retailer and its rivals, and hopefully we'll see some snazzy discounts soon, but until then, it's all eyes on brands like 8Bitdo, GameSir, and Gulikit.

Prime Day could help you revisit the forgotten genre that is rollerball games

Most arcade machines out there will fix you up with a clicky joystick and buttons, but that's going to help if you want to play classics like Centipede. For that, you'll need a trackball, and if you're on a mission to dive into that arguably forgotten genre, you'll potentially want to snag 10% off a bar top machine.

The Arcade Classics Centipede cabinet isn't perfect, and at full price, its limited number of built-in games doesn't hit the same as the Evercade Alpha and its cart capabilities. For under $180, though, it could make for a great piece of game room decor that doubles up as a nice way to experience Atari's rollerball releases from yesteryear, including the titular classic, Millipede, and Super Breakout.

Arcade Classics Centipede machine | $199.99 $179.99 at Amazon

Morning, folks! How are we doing? I'm back again to handle the latest savings on all things retro, so buckle up for some discounts.

Prices are remaining stable, and I'm not seeing many items selling out yet

If you were hesitant to dive in yesterday in case costs changed, they seem much the same now as they were then. This gives me hope that we aren't going to see a sudden, extra price cut as the Prime Day sale wears on; it seems as though those discounts are locked in.

It's-a-me, retro collectibles

I'm gonna spotlight something a little different this morning; a different flavor of retro. I've talked a lot about hardware, but let's not forget nostalgic collectibles! Having grown up on the likes of the SNES, Super Mario World has a permanent place in the my heart... and Lego happens to have made a damn good replica of Mario on Yoshi as they appeared in that game. They even move if you turn the crank!

Anyway, Prime Day sales have slashed this to $103.99 via Amazon rather than $130. Because this kit is now retired, I sincerely doubt we'll get a better offer any time soon.

I'm thinking of adding to my retro setup with these ornaments

While we're on the collectibles end of the spectrum, did you know that Hallmark makes some gaming-themed ornaments? While they're obviously designed to go up on your Christmas tree, there's no reason you can't have them on display in your gaming area. There's a lot of retro Sonic and Nintendo gear, naturally, but the Xbox 360 era is also represented with a mini console and even a Master Chief bust with this mini Halo 3 game box.

Completing the retro armory with more old-school tech

If there's one thing that'll truly make you feel like you're cocooned in an '80s or '90s bubble, it's gearing up with other retro tech while playing an old-school handheld. We went into detail on this kind of kit with our guide to de-digitizing your life with retro gear, and I really like the idea of sitting with an emulator like the Blaze Evercade Data East Super Pocket and being plugged into a Walkman-esque device like the SnowSky/FiiO Echo MINI HiFi Bluetooth MP3 Player. The latter currently has a fiver off the asking price at Amazon.

Amazon fires a Hadouken at this Street Fighter portable

The nice thing about handhelds like the My Arcade Pocket Player Pro is that they come fully themed to a specific game, so are perfect if you adore a certain franchise or are buying for someone else that does. I'm a big fan of Super Street Fighter II, for instance, so this version with that and Street Fighter II: Special Champion Edition pre-loaded dropping down to $24.98 at Amazon instead of $45 went straight onto my radar. That's a record low price, too.

Amazon just dropped the GBS-C upscaler on my doorstep, and I'm pretty impressed so far

If you were hanging out here yesterday, you'll know I grabbed an ODV GBS-C HDMI upscaler on a Prime Deal. While I should have been having a lie-in after covering deals until midnight last night, I couldn't resist retrieving it from my doorstep at 7 am and giving it a shot. I'll be looking to test its upscaling abilities over the next few weeks, but so far I'm pretty happy with the McBazel version's build quality, built-in OSD, and resolution presets.

You'll want to consider this gadget if, like me, you're not satisfied with the OSSC's flickery Bob deinterlacing used to convert 480i signals with systems like the PS2. It isn't ideal if you're rocking a system with only composite or S-Video, like the N64, though, and the Windows 98 PC I'm building for 3DFX Glide games seems to have issues via VGA. That aside, the upscaler is well worth a look while it's down for Prime Day.

ODV GBS-C | $89.90 $71.92 at Amazon (£58.13 at Amazon UK)

The mClassic version you want for your retro console is under $40

Marseille's mClassic HDMI dongle makes for a neat way to upscale your games to 1080p while using a clever anti-aliasing algorithm (or 1440p on compatible monitors). While the original red version was primarily designed to give your Switch or any other system with aging 720p visuals, the accessory maker later whipped up a green version specifically for retro consoles.

It just so happens that it's the mClassic "Retro Edition" that has dipped under $40 for Prime Day. I should stress it's not ideal for every setup, and I only tend to plug it in if I'm playing a specific PS2/OG Xbox era game that could do with a smoothing over. If you enjoy the naturally jaggy look of old pixels, especially on '90s 3D systems, you probably won't get much out of this dongle. What I will say, though, is that it's another handy tool to add to your arsenal that can improve visuals in specific situations, and its current price makes it worth trying.

Marseille mClassic Retro Edition | $99.99 $39.01 at Amazon

I've been keeping on Best Buy and Walmart but they are largely rubbish for retro deals

Typically speaking, the big box retailers like Best Buy and Walmart give Amazon a run for its money during Prime Day. However, I'm seeing virtually no deals on retro consoles, handhelds, or gadgets at any of those rivals, and the fact that both feature third-party sellers trying to flog those shady "1,000 games in one" gizmos means you should be careful when browsing discounts.

Don't get me wrong, Amazon has an abundance of those crummy plug-and-play consoles, too, but it feels like the official Prime Day sale includes more gadgets actually worth looking at by established brands. If I do find something elsewhere, you'll be the first to know, but I thought I'd highlight the situation with savings this week outside of the subscriber sale.

I'm patiently waiting for the Neo Geo Mini to drop

Believe it or not, sellers at Amazon still have stock of the Neo Geo Mini arcade machine from 2018. It's not the perfect mini cabinet by any means, as its joystick is just a big analogue nub and it lacks micro switched buttons. Yet, I regularly use its HDMI abilities and USB controller support to play bona fide classics like King of Fighters and Fatal Fury when I've got guests, and for under $60, it's a pretty solid package.

In fact, I reckon if you're not into spending hundreds on the upcoming Neo Geo AES+ and new physical cartridges, this mini arcade machine could provide you with "good enough" emulated access. I haven't picked up on any egregious issues with its emulation, aside from the typical minor sound quirks, and pairing it with 8Bitdo's satisfyingly clicky gamepad helps it feel pretty damn authentic. That's precisely why I'm eagerly waiting to see if Prime Day will knock it even lower, but it's still worth buying even at its current price.

Neo Geo Mini | $59.99 at Amazon

The new "Black Edition" C64 Mini is the cheapest version right now

The microcomputing purists out there may object to this, but the C64 Mini makes for a solid way to play the system's classics. Yes, its emulation abilities will never live up to the FPGA-powered hardware accuracy of the Commodore 64 Ultimate, and it's too small to feature a real keyboard. But, if you have all your favorite '80s outings backed up in ROM form, you can run them on this plug-and-play system while also having access to a bunch of other licensed romps built in.

If you're specifically looking for new Commodore 64 gems to explore, the new C64 Mini Black Edition should be on your radar. It's got 25 of the highest-rated Indie adventures created for the system over the past 15 years, meaning if you haven't fired up BASIC since the '80s, you may have some catching up to do.

C64 Mini Black Edition | $79.97 $65.24 at Amazon

Tread carefully when picking up retro console cables at Amazon

If you're eyeing up upscalers like the OSSC or GBS-C, you may end up also grabbing cables for your retro consoles at Amazon. I've occasionally ordered cheap wires at the retailer when in a pinch while running retro gaming events in the past, but I've been stung by poor quality and issues that could even injure your old systems if you're not careful.

Amazon is a minefield for finding RGB SCART, composite, or S-Video cables that will actually work. It's for that reason that I normally advise anyone investing in their setup to grab a good quality wire from the likes of Retro Gaming Cables or a small vendor that custom makes solutions. If you want to keep things cheap, though, make sure to read Amazon reviews carefully to avoid issues like connectors not fitting or unusable interference.

Retro console cables at Amazon

If you're eyeing up the N64 Bluetooth receiver I use, stick with AliExpress

I'm routinely asked about the weird four-port dongle hanging out of my Nintendo 64. It's basically a Bluetooth adapter that will allow you to connect up to four gamepads, and it works at treat with 8Bitdo's N64 controller. You'll specifically want to look out for the "BlueRetro" branded accessory, but I'd head to AliExpress rather than Amazon to avoid paying double.

Even during Prime Day, AliExpress beats Amazon when it comes to cheap retro accessories like the BlueRetro N64 controller adapter. The catch is that your order will normally have to make its way over from China, resulting in longer delivery times. I'd say it's worth waiting a little longer if it means paying around $13 versus $30 at Amazon, though, even if the latter will arrive speedily with Prime.

BlueRetro Bluetooth N64 Controller Adapter | $29 $13.55 at AliExpress

Atari's 400 Mini microcomputer remake is creeping down in price

Out of the various microcomputer plug-and-play remakes I've tried, the Atari 400 Mini remains my favorite. Its got a bunch of games included, and runs some absurd oddities from my collection (looking at you Carnival Massacre), and while it is very gradually getting cheaper as Prime Day unfolds, I'm still waiting for some sort of new record low.

In fairness, under $85 for an HDMI console that'll looks like your dad's computer from the '70s and ran also run Atari 5200 games isn't bad. I think Amazon can do better, though, so if you're willing to risk it going out of stock or leaping to an even higher price, I'd hold off for some last minute deals.

Atari 400 Mini (THE400) | $92.33 $84.89 at Amazon

If you're building a retro sleeper PC, this 8Bitdo NES mouse is for you

I'm the type of loser who's currently putting together a Windows 98 retro gaming PC specifically for playing 3DFX Glide games. However, I get that most of you would rather just dress up your modern rig with beige accessories, and if you have a soft spot for the aesthetic of the NES, 8Bitdo has you covered with an appropriate Prime Day mouse deal.

Thanks to Prime, you can grab 37% off 8Bitdo's Retro R8 mouse, and while it looks like an oddball accessory for playing something like Mario Paint, it's a fully-fledged gaming rodent with a 26,000 DPI sensor and 4K polling. Admittedly, this mouse is more about the vibes than original hardware functionality, especially since it only works with my Windows 98 and XP machines in wired mode, but it could be perfect if you're shoving new parts in a vintage case to create a sleeper build.

8BitDo Retro R8 Mouse with Charging Dock | $49.99 $31.48 at Amazon

Prime Day retro deals are holding up, but handheld prices are staying put

I'll admit that there are more Prime Day retro deals this year than I was anticipating. That said, I do have a long list of consoles that haven't received any discounts yet, and handheld offers have been very few and far between. The ongoing component price crisis is likely to blame, but I was hoping for some of the usual suspects, like the Anbernic RG28XX, to drop under $40. There are still a few days to go, though, so I'll be keeping watch for any last-minute discounts on all my recommended portables.

Check for retro handheld deals at Amazon

If you're planning on using an OSSC to upscaler your N64, you'll need an extra gizmo

Retro upscalers like the OSSC and ODV GBS-C will help you plug most retro consoles into your modern TV, but there is a big catch if you're using Ninty's first 3D system. While it's rivals like the PS1 and Sega Saturn boast RGB output that's compatible with both devices, the N64 is stuck with composite or S-video. That means if you want to use an unmodded machine with either upscaler, you'll need something to convert your signal.

Luckily, there is a gadget by the same folks that make the GBS-C that will take your composite signal and transcode it to RGB. By using the ODV-II as a middleman, you'll be able to then hook straight into either upscaler and beam your N64 visuals using HDMI. The results won't be quite as vibrant or crisp as a true RGB signal, but it'll certainly get you playing Ocarina of Time in HD on original hardware. For context, I use a 30-year-old version of the same thing by Sony, so the newer orange box will take up far less space.

ODV-II Composite/S-Video to RGB Converter | $59.90 $48.39 at Amazon

Yes, I wish the Banjo-Kazooie handheld was discounted too, but grabbing another Super Pocket could be a wiser move

I've already had a few messages asking if the Super Pocket Rare Edition is down in price. The answer is no, and that makes sense given it just arrived on the scene. It might feel like you need that specific red and blue version to play the bear and bird's collectathon on the tiny Evercade portable, but if you wait until October, you'll be able to play both the original and Banjo-Tooie on any of Blaze's gadgets.

Yes, we're getting a standalone Banjo-Kazooie collection in October, and it's for that reason that it's potentially wiser to grab the Super Pocket Neo Geo Edition for $49.99, then pick up the cart in a few months' time. Doing so means you'll have extra cash to spend on the compilation while avoiding ending up with two versions of the same game should you want the sequel when it arrives. It's what I'd personally do if I were mainly looking for a cheap device just to play the platformer.

Psst, there's a less fancy version of my go-to retro controller that's under $25

I've already shouted about how the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro is down to $33.99 for Prime Day. However, it's worth highlighting that there is a non-Pro version that provides practically the same set of buttons and sticks with some dialled back specs for $23.99. The vanilla pad sadly doesn't come in the same gorgeous Sega Saturn-inspired colorway, but if you're not fussed about elevated haptics, the pink version will feel pretty much the same when paired with your retro console of choice (I may have to get one just to pair with my pink PS2 slim that exclusively runs Silent Hill 2).

If you mainly emulate PS1 games on new hardware, you should grab GameSir's DualShock clone

I really wish GameSir would make more retro controllers that can hook directly up to retro consoles. Had the Tegenaria Lite featured Bluetooth abilities, I'd already have one tethered to my PS1, as it's one of the most authentic OG DualShock clones I've spotted yet, but alas, this is a wired USB controller, but that means you emulation fans can pick up a solid PlayStation pad for your PC, Raspberry Pi, or whatever other gizmo you're using as a makeshift Sony system for just over $15.

GameSir Tegenaria Lite wired controller | $19.99 $15.99 at Amazon

Grabbing a woodgrain handheld with a faux CRT screen makes for a bit of Prime Day fun, but I think you deserve better

I've spotted a few retro hardware enjoyers with less handheld experience highlighting R36TMAX deals this Prime Day already. For what it's worth, I don't think the unbranded Chinese portable is a terrible device, and I've encountered plenty like it that provide serviceable performance for earlier 8-bit and 16-bit games. It's weird, CRT-style screen lens admittedly looks striking, and don't get me started on the woodgrain version.

That said, I honestly don't think this is a deal worth screaming about. For starters, you can easily find this 4-inch vertical handheld at AliExpress for around $40, so Prime Day isn't doing anything new here. Plus, there are portables, like the Anbernic RG35XX Plus, that normally drop during the sales and can handle PS1 games, and I reckon you'd be better off waiting for those discounts or spending a bit more on something that'll properly fulfil your emulation needs.

R36TMAX handheld | $69.99 $47.49 at Amazon

Your Game Boy is hungry for batteries, so let it eat

I don't know about you, but my OG Game Boy loves to devour packets of AA batteries. While I do have some handhelds with battery mods, I do like to sometimes play on a stock DMG just to keep things authentic. If you've still got Ninty's brick, or even a Game Boy Color with an AMOLED screen that's extra thirsty, it's worth using Prime Day to pick up some rechargeable cells and a charging box while they're cheaper.

Imuto Rechargeable AA Batteries with Charger, 8 Pack | $23.99 $18.99 at Amazon

8Bitdo's dockable retro controller is sitting pretty for Prime Day

In many ways, the 8Bitdo Pro 3 looks like the gamepad for the unreleased Nintendo PlayStation. It's for that reason that it's a "one gamepad fits all" option, as it's got that classic Ninty d-pad, symmetrical Sony-style sticks, and longer grips like an OG DualShock. If that sounds like something you'd use with virtually every system you own, you'll be pleased as punch about its current Prime Day discount.

For under $50, you're getting the 8Bitdo Pro 3 Bluetooth controller and a charging dock. That's everything you need out of the box for playing classics on PC or Switch, and if you want to make it a part of your original retro console setup, it will link up to adapters and Retro Receivers.

8Bitdo Pro 3 + Charging Dock | $69.99 $49.59 at Amazon

I'd love to highlight some console mods this Prime Day, but Amazon isn't so keen

Amazon is pretty well stocked when it comes to retro console mods, as the same Highspeedio kit I used to HDMI mod my N64 is available. The bad news is that, for whatever reason, parts like this rarely get a discount during Prime Day, and while you're cheaper off grabbing the conversion board at Aliexpress anyway, a discount paired with quicker delivery would have made for a winning offer.

Still, if you're not afraid of a bit of soldering and want an easy way to hook up your N64 to a TV, you'll perhaps still find the HDMI mod handy.

Highspeedio N64 HDMI mod | $59 at Amazon

CRT TVs are beautiful, but OLED monitors are the next best thing for retro gaming

I own far too many CRT TVs, so believe me when I say I believe they're the best screens for any console made before 2006. However, new OLED panels pack a vibrancy and brightness punch that, if paired with nice scanline effects, can mimic the effect of an old tube.

Therefore, if you're sitting moping about the fact you haven't found a cheap CRT in working order yet, it's worth checking out Prime Day monitor deals while they're still live. You'll still pay more for the screen tech than you would for a traditional IPS display, but the results come pretty close to the glow of a vintage display, especially if you use the right visual effects.

Simply put, don't let the purists stop you from using new screens.

Every year, I toy with the idea of replacing my toaster with this Burger Time mini arcade machine

I don't have much space left in my home, let alone on my kitchen countertop. Yet, every time Prime Day rolls around, I find myself looking at this specific Quarter Arcades Burger Time machine, wondering whether it could make for elaborate décor. I already have the Quarter Arcades Bubble Bobble machine sitting pretty on my desk, but the Data East's excellent chef-themed side panel has me in its burger bun grips.

This year, there is indeed a Prime Deal discount on the Burger Time arcade machine, but I'm waiting for Amazon to go the extra mile. It's currently down to $181.77, which is cheaper than the other flavors (although it's arguably too much for a tiny cabinet with one game included). However, I've spotted it for under $100 in the past, and that's the prime that'll ultimately lead to my toaster being evicted.

There's a way to get the UK's iconic ZX Spectrum remake for less even if you're in the US

It's safe to say that the ZX Spectrum is firmly a British microcomputing icon. That perhaps explains why the historically significant "The Spectrum White Edition" is down to £110.49 from £129.99 in the UK, but is showing up for $187.56 in the US.

Thankfully, you don't have to settle for the latter higher price if you're itching to try the microcomputer for yourself, as you can log into Amazon UK and order it to a US address. I've tested this on my end, and if my calculations are correct, the end total should be $150.27, even with import fees and delivery factored in. That's still a little price, but perhaps a small price to pay to import a special edition, HDMI version of a fantastically '80s feeling machine and 48 built-in classics.

Please don't try and buy original retro consoles or games at Amazon this Prime Day

I know for a fact some of you will have typed things like "NES console" or "Sega Genesis" into Amazon and will be looking at real retro console listings. Some of you may even be looking at original copies of games, but I need you to think twice before adding any of those to your cart.

It's easy to forget that Amazon is a marketplace, so you'll get sellers trying to flog original retro consoles and games just like at eBay. The difference is that, more often than not, these merchants list hardware and software at significantly higher prices in the hope that unsuspecting buyers won't realize they're paying over the odds, and with Prime Day happening, you may see rogue "deals" that are still way more expensive than other second-hand listings.

Ultimately, I'm saying you shouldn't buy original retro consoles or games at Amazon, and I can guarantee you won't get a Prime Day deal on any vintage systems released decades ago.

This NES clone is already pretty cheap, but I'll take an extra few dollars off

I'm not saying the Hyperkin Retron HD is the best NES console clone out there, but it's serviceable for the price. You're getting an HDMI system that will run your original cartridges, comes with a controller, and even retains AV ports just in case you've got a CRT TV. Simply put, it'll enable you to play your old physical games with ease, and while it's only a few dollars cheaper for Prime Day, it's already pretty cheap.

If you've already heard the gatekeepers make jabs at the Retron HD for not having the right colors, you shouldn't let that deter you. It turns out that there is no consensus on NES color accuracy, and even Nintendo doesn't have an official answer for how games like Super Mario Bros should look.

Hyperkin Retron HD | $44.99 $42 at Amazon

8Bitdo's Retro Receiver perfectly matches the purple GameCube, but you'll want its rival for Switch 2 controller compatibility

I love the look of 8Bitdo's GameCube Retro Receiver. Not only has the company color-matched the purple hue of the 2000s console perfectly, but it even feels like an official Nintendo accessory. So, you can imagine my sheer disappointment upon realizing it isn't compatible with the shiny new Switch 2 Online GameCube controller, as Ninty changed up its firmware. If you're not planning on using that pad, you can grab the dongle for $19.99, but otherwise, you'll need an alternative solution

The solution ended up being the open-source BlueRetro GameCube Wireless Adapter. It doesn't remotely tie in with the Cube's aesthetic, as it features a transparent shell and sticks out of the controller port further. But, it does fully support Switch 2 pads, including the new Online remake, and that means it's functionally speaking a superior accessory (it's also cheaper).

BlueRetro GameCube wireless adapter | $12.50 at Aliexpress

FYI, Prime Day is actually Prime Week, and I've shared over 50 unique deals live so far

We're just about halfway through "Prime Week", so I thought I'd take a count of the offers I've hand-picked so far. By my count, I've shared over 50 deals on the feed, and unlike some pages you'll come across on the internet, AI tools are banned from this retro hub. That means every discount featured here has been carefully assessed by me and price checked before being presented to you on a convenient platter, and unlike any silly chatbots, I've actually tested everything I've highlighted.

I've also been offering up plenty of retro gaming advice in between the deals, as there's more to the craft than grabbing a discount. There's no point saving money on the wrong gadgets for your needs, and I'd rather tell you to hold off on picking something up than share a discount without a purpose. In any case, the sale is proving fruitful so far for revisiting some of the best games ever, and I'll be here until the event ends on Friday.

I need Atari to show me they money (off)

I'm pretty surprised we don't have more discounts on the Atari 2600+ and its '80s 7800+ sibling. Typically speaking, both tend to take a hit during sales like Prime Day, but I've yet to see even a small offer happen on both remakes. It's slightly curious, especially since they're the types of systems that boast actual cartridge support and HDMI output, and even a small saving can nudge casual players and enthusiasts to buy one.

Amazon has discounted the My Arcade Atari Gamestation Go, though, a beefy all-in-one handled that provides every control type you could possibly need. Paddle? Check. Number pad? Check. It's a bizarre contraption, but for $140.99, you will be able to authentically play over 200 built-in 8-bit capers virtually anywhere.

My personal retro dongle purchase this year is...

While Phil takes a much-deserved break, I (Rollin Bishop, US Managing Editor) am now at the wheel! Phil's done an excellent job scouring the best Prime Day deals over at Amazon, so I figured this would be a good opportunity to explicitly recommend the one purchase I've made myself: 8BitDo's Bluetooth retro receiver dongle for the PS1/PS2.

Having recently dug my PS2 out of storage to play some Metal Slug on the family TV, I'd been considering how to handle all the cords of the traditional controllers as my cat loves to chew on anything with electricity running through it. (It's a real problem.) This receiver solves that handily while also letting me find a dedicated use for one of the many Bluetooth-enabled controllers scattered around my house. A win-win!

8BitDo Bluetooth Retro Receiver for PS1/PS2 | $24.99 $19.99 at Amazon

8BitDo's dockable retro controller is even cheaper than before

Look, there's a reason 8BitDo is all over our recommendations here, and part of it boils down to it's simply one of the most consistent companies to actually chase the retro market with largely quality releases. Case in point: this 8BitDo Pro 3 controller with charging dock.

Phil had actually recommended this earlier, but it's even cheaper now at $45.59 for Amazon Prime members. While I'd not purchased this bit of kit this time around, I actually did pick up the GameCube-looking one from Woot some months back and highly recommend it. It's not the same color scheme that's on deep discount, but it's functionally the same controller.

8BitDo Pro 3 + Charging Dock | $69.99 $45.59 at Amazon

I had been hoping for better Evercade deals, personally

My personal white whale this week has been to keep an eye on the various Evercade consoles, portable or otherwise, for the right price point for me to finally pull the trigger. Specifically, I'd been watching the Evercade VS-R, which as Phil previously noted was available just under $80. Still a bit too rich for my blood, personally, and even that is currently out of stock.

Will any of the various Evercade consoles dip low enough for me to actually buy them? Or will I continue to live in hope this week only to have those hopes dashed against the rocks of online commerce? Find out next time on: Prime Day retro gaming deals!

Finally a way to store SNES carts that makes sense

Is this Hyperkin storage two-pack the best way to keep your SNES carts sorted? That I can't say for sure. What I can say is that my current solution of "put them on a shelf together and hope for the best" and previous solution of "inside a plastic tote, I guess" both leave something to be desired. 15% off isn't exactly going to blow anyone away, but it makes for a record-low price – and hey, you can stack them!

Hyperkin 10-cartridge storage stand for SNES 2-pack | $25.99 $22.09 at Amazon

If it doesn't spark joy, don't buy it

As you can probably tell, it's a tough time out there for anything resembling a good deal. As someone that's done this song and dance for literal decades, if there's one thing I've learned it's this: don't buy something just to buy it.

If it doesn't immediately jump out to you when you see it, if the price doesn't immediately make you think, "Oh, that's a steal," don't bother. From experience, this has more often than not caused me to buy bits and bobs I don't actually want let alone need. I've bins full of past "deals" that ultimately didn't make any meaningful change in my life.

By all means, buy retro gaming deals during the Prime Day sales! But take a beat to make sure you actually want it and you'll actually use it; you'll thank me later.

Don't mind if I 8BitDo Lite 2

The 8BitDo Lite 2 Bluetooth gamepad is another previous pickup of mine during a prior sale that has really withstood the test of time. While technically advertised as being for the Switch and Switch Lite, by and large, I've found this delightfully compact controller serves basically all of my on-the-go needs. If you're lugging around anything with a Bluetooth dongle or just want a space-saving option for a solid controller, it's hard to go wrong with the Lite 2 given it's record-low price at the moment.

8BitDo Lite 2 Bluetooth gamepad | $34.99 $20.59 at Amazon

Here's to dreaming of retro deals

Well, folks, that's my time for the day. Phil will be back at it in the future, I'm sure, and there are still several days left in this week for Prime Day retro gaming deals to surprise me. Who knows? Maybe an Evercade console really will drop to a price point I can stomach; a man can dream, can't he?

It's day four or reaping the Prime Day retro gaming rewards!

I'm back, rested, and ready to dive into this year's sea of Prime Day retro deals!

I suspect a few more of you will be now searching for classic consoles that'll run your old favorites in response to GTA IV nonsense. Not to rain on anyone's parade, but I reckon you could have just as much fun revisiting Vice City or San Andreas, and probably save a chunk doing so if you haven't got the cash for a new system.

Anyway, grab a beverage and join me as I boot up the Prime Day discounts and advice yet again.

Keep GTA IV, I'd rather chill outside and play its classic crime caper predecessors

I promise I'm not trying to start anything, but do you really want GTA IV, or do you just miss running around Vice City on your PS2?

That's the question I've been asking anyone going bananas about the sandbox sequel, and I then end up pointing them to a retro handheld that can handle PlayStation 2 emulation. Upsettingly, the portable I was hoping to pass your way, the Mangmi Pocket Max, is still more expensive than its $220 MSRP, even with a 20% off Prime Day deal, but it's still the gizmo I'd use to play GTA 3, Vice City, and San Andreas.

It could still be worth grabbing this excellent, modular handheld for playing old GTA games when you factor in shipping, though, as you'll apparently pay a criminal $22 shipping at Mangmi. Plus, I know some of you would rather stick with a known retailer in case any issues arise after purchase.

Mangmi Pocket Max | $279.99 at Amazon

Or, you could play GTA on an actual PS2 like its 2001

I like to mess around with emulation, but if I'm truly going to sit and replace the retro GTA trilogy, I'll be using an actual PS2. That might sound like a faff if you haven't touched Sony's 2000s console in decades, but you can grab some accessories that'll arm it with contemporary comforts.

The two PS2 gadgets to add to your list this Prime Day are a GBS-C upscaler and 8Bitdo's Retro Receiver. The former HDMI box is already 20% cheaper, meaning you can grab it for $71, upscale your original GTA discs to 1080p, and even eliminate the weird gitter effect caused by the system's interlaced graphics. As for the dongle, that will let you use your modern gamepads with the old console, meaning you can play original Vice City or San Andreas with a DualSense.

ODV GBS-C upscaler | $89.90 $71.92 at Amazon
8Bitdo PS1/PS2 Retro Receiver | $24.99 $19.99 at Amazon

Retro handheld prices are rough this Prime Day, but it's not just an Amazon problem

I normally expect to see some of the cheaper retro handhelds show up with pretty prices during Prime Day, but that's not happening this year. Sure, there are a few favorites popping up, like the Super Pocket Neo Geo Edition for $49 and MagicX's Nintendo DS portable for $60, but most of my other picks are either more expensive than usual, or are falling victim to the old "put the price up then back down again for Prime" nonsense.

That's exactly what's happening with the Anbernic RG28XX right now, a GBA Micro clone that usually shows up for around $30 during Prime. Instead, sellers are bumping it up to $54, then discounting it to $46.99, which is how much it costs all year round. At this stage, I'd normally advise heading to Aliexpress in protest, but even that rag-tag retailer has the portable for the same price.

I'm determined to find real retro handheld deals for you all, but I won't be presenting mediocre portables or anything with a higher ticket as worth buying. So, stay tuned for authentic discounts, as I'll be feeding them to you live!

I'm hoping this extremely cool PS1/PS2 light gun will take a last minute shot at Prime Day

Every Prime Day, I make a retro wishlist, and Intec's PS1 and PS2-compatible light gun for modern screens has firmly made the cut. Not unlike the G'AIM'E Time Crisis console set I reviewed last year, this arcade controller works on new TVs and monitors, whereas your original accessories are designed with CRTs in mind.

I've been testing this PS2 light gun, and the fact that it connects wirelessly to both the PS1 and its sequel helps justify its $125 price tag. That said, I will absolutely take a last-minute Prime Day deal if Amazon can make it happen, as that will help my quest to revive what I'd now consider to be a forgotten genre.

Intec Gaming PS1/PS2 light gun | $124.98 at Amazon

How's my Prime Day retro deals driving?

I've shared a pretty impressive pile of real Prime Day retro deals so far, and I'm curious to know if you've managed to grab anything cool as a result. Ultimately, I only really care about helping everyone play their favorite classics and keeping old consoles running for decades to come, so if you haven't found an offer that actually suits your needs, there's nothing wrong with sitting the sale out.

That said, I've covered a lot of ground with my retro deals live feed so far, meaning there's a good chance you have managed to bag consoles, handhelds, accessories, and controllers. We've still got two days until the sale ends, and I reckon we'll have a lot of fun just chatting about gadgets regardless.

This WWE arcade machine Prime Day deal is for your wrestling obsessed friend

I'm convinced we all have a friend who's really into wrestling. I personally have a pal who frequently cancels plans so that he can "stay in and play old wrestling games," and if you've got someone in your life like that, they'd probably grab this My Arcade WWE bar top cabinet while it's under $160 for Prime Day.

I haven't tested this specific flavor of mini machine, and if I had one, my friend would probably choke-slam me for it. However, I do have a My Arcade Centipede review already live, and while the games are dramatically different, both will share the same build quality and decal artwork. The WWE version also happens to be the cheapest model this Prime Day, so if you'd be happy with any of the lineup, you should start with this cab.

My Arcade WWE arcade machine | $199.99 $159.99 at Amazon

Psst, there's a cheaper version of the 8Bitdo Pro with 39% off

I've already highlighted that the 8Bitdo Pro 3 and charging cradle is $45 for Prime Day, but if you're not fussed about the dock, TMR thumb sticks, or clicky, swappable buttons, the Pro 2 is 39% cheaper right now. For just over $30, you're getting a similar gamepad, albeit one with fewer bells and whistles, but that may suit some of you looking for an "all-in-one" retro controller for causal sessions.

8Bitdo Pro 2 Bluetooth Controller | $49.99 $30.69 at Amazon

A friend just asked if Prime Day is good for Game Boy mods (the answer is no)

I've been customizing handhelds for a long time, and readers frequently ask me about my Game Boy Color AMOLED touchscreen mod. In fact, a friend just asked if you can get the parts cheaper during Prime Day, but sadly, Amazon listings for console parts don't tend to take a cut during the sales.

Ultimately, if you want to mod your Game Boy with Highspeedio's fantastically vibrant AMOLED display, you'll want to grab it for under $50 at Aliexpress. That beats Amazon since most listings are over $80, but as always, you'll need to wait longer for delivery. If you've got big summer plans that involve playing Pokémon, I'll leave it up to you whether you should pay more to get it before July.

Amazon Prime Day's Miyoo Mini Plus deal is making me sad

Not many Game Boy clones have bothered to show up for the Prime Day party, but the Miyoo Mini Plus is actually in attendance. The only issue is that it's more expensive than last year, as while I've previously spotted it for just under $60, the best Amazon can apparently do is $65.98 via a 18% discount.

Once again, you're better off heading to AliExpress since it's available for around $58. This is the exact kind of pocket-friendly emulator I like to recommend to friends and readers alike before they head off on holiday, so while it's not at my ideal price right now, it's still worth a look.

Prime Day aside, retro handheld prices at Amazon can be tricksy

Actually finding Prime Day deals on retro handhelds is one thing, but sometimes you'll find that some sellers are charging a chunk more than others. That's certainly the case for the Anbernic RG ARC-D, my favorite portable for Sega Genesis and Saturn games, as while most listings have it at $89.99, there's one that's got the gadget at $74.99.

FYI, that's not officially a discount, but you're still saving $15 just by clicking on one of several RG ARC-D listings. Weirdly, this is lower than I can find the handheld for anywhere else, so it could be that I've stumbled across a stealth Prime Day deal that's been accidentally posted as a mere price change. Either way, if you want to play some Sonic on the go, I'd take a peek at this portable.

Anbernic RG ARC-D | $74.99 at Amazon

8Bitdo's black N64 controller should be cheaper *throws bowler hat*

Look, I love the 8Bitdo N64 Bluetooth controller, but I've got issues with the black version's Prime Day price. I've spotted the basic colorways for under $30 quite a few times in the past, but Amazon is insisting on only chopping 15% off. It managed to reach just $26 during Black Friday last year, and it makes the summer sale look a bit lazy.

It's worth noting the grey version is more expensive, so while it looks like a worse deal at $38.24, we're at least getting a record low there. I'll always encourage voting with your wallet where possible, and while the N64 controller is fantastic, I'd perhaps hold off for the real deals.

8Bitdo N64 Bluetooth Controller (Black) | $39.99 $33.99 at Amazon

Prime Day prices on retro consoles are holding strong, but I'm hoping for new savings

Taking a step back and looking at Prime Day as a whole, I'm not seeing many rogue deals jump back up in price. There's nothing worse than seeing discounts vanish before the sale even ends, but what I'm ultimately hoping is that some sellers will crash the party tonight or tomorrow as things come to a close.

Last-ditch discounts during events like Prime Day are also irritating and are normally designed to create a sense of urgency. Rushing isn't part of my personality, but at the same time, some of those retro handhelds and consoles I've been eyeing up could drop, so let's hope for that!

Don't be fooled by "deals" on Anbernic's new rotating handheld at Amazon

Heads up - I've noticed claims that Amazon has deals on the newly released Anbernic RG Rotate. I'm sorry to confirm that's not true, and in fact, you're paying way above its $107.99 MSRP at the retailer. The confusion perhaps stems from the fact that there's a discount without a Prime Day label that brings an overpriced $139.99 to a still overpriced $129.99.

For reference, this is the listing, but I'd strongly suggest either waiting for real deals on the rotating, 2000s MP3 player handheld or going straight to Anbernic. Even the cheaper plastic black version is $20 more than it should be, and it's my duty to make sure no one leads you to think you're saving money when you aren't.

The Evercade EXP-R is back to full price

Much to the disappointment of my classic game-loving colleague Rollin, the Evercade EXP-R is back to full price. That's the danger with Amazon running out of stock during Prime Day, as it means listings fall back to third parties who aren't participating in the event. If you're still looking for a cartridge fix for less, the Super Pocket Neo Geo Edition is holding strong at $49.99, but I'm not sure how long that portable will last.

If you can't find "big" deals, focus on the smaller retro bits

It's easy to dive into Prime Day expecting to find your new main retro handheld or a fancy new console. But, with the gaming hardware scene the way it is this year, it might be worth trying to save money on the smaller accessories that inevitably add up to big money. Gadgets like Retro Receivers for your consoles, Bluetooth controllers, and even memory cards are more likely to be on sale right now, and the discounts will add up to a serviceable amount of money off.

Check out 8Bitdo Retro Receivers at Amazon

This is your reminder to avoid retro game sticks with "40,000+" games

I know most of you are already aware that any console promising hundreds, if not thousands, of built in games is most likely illegal and a scam. However, just in case you're new here, I just want to stress that if you see any cheap, unbranded "retro game sticks" that plug in via HDMI and boast something absurd like "40,000+" ROMs, you'll want to stay well clear.

To keep yourself right, I wouldn't use any microSD cards with games that come with even some of my favorite handhelds, as third-parties love to be naughty and include ROMs. You will see sellers trying to pitch generic looking TV boxes that will try and sell you a retro gaming lemon using thousands of games are a lure, and they shouldn't be entertained. If you're unsure which gadgets to avoid, I'd say your best bet is to just stick with me here and I'll highlight the deals worth paying attention to.

I really wish this mini Street Fighter 2 arcade machine would drop

I've already mentioned my shortlist of Prime Day retro deals I'm still waiting on, and My Arcade's Street Fighter 2 cabinet is on that ledger. It's still full price at $59.99 right now, but if it were to drop to around $30, I'd tell a bunch of people to grab the mini arcade machine. It's got surprisingly tactile buttons and a clicky joystick, not to mention its marquee lights up. Plus, it can even do multiplayer if you have two, which could make for a bananas way to play Capcom's classic.

Planning on grabbing a monitor for retro gaming? Be wary of aspect ratio caveats

Prime Day is naturally a nice time to add a new display to your retro setup, and OLED panels can compete with even authentic CRT TVs. That said, even some of the highest end panels out there can play dumb when it comes to old console resolutions, as you'll occasionally find that some struggle to display 4:3 aspect ratios properly.

This is something I ran into last night when testing my newly acquired GBS-C upscaler. At first, I thought the HDMI gadget was to blame, but it turns out that if you try use a square resolution, like 1280x960 (960p), on something like an LG UltraGear display, it'll squish your picture into a square. This means you have to fall back to using 1080p, and since that doesn't scale perfectly in terms of pixels mathematically, it can result in blurrier visuals.

From experience, Sony and Asus panel firmware seems to do a better job displaying true 4:3 aspect ratios. That's worth bearing in mind when looking at Prime Day monitor deals, but I'll also be researching on the side to highlight any specific models that cause issues.

Hold up, the handheld I'm replaying Vice City Stories on is cheaper for Prime Day!

Rejoice! I've finally found another retro handheld that's actually cheaper for Prime Day, and it's the very portable I'm using to play GTA: Vice City Stories. The sale has knocked 15% off the Trimui Smart Pro, a Linux contender that'll set you back $85.99 direct at the brand. Having checked AliExpress to make sure it's not vastly cheaper elsewhere, I can confirm that Amazon is matching its rival on price, meaning you're actually saving some pennies.

Trimui Smart Pro | $88.99 $75.64 at Amazon

The USB version of my favorite Mega Drive gamepad is under $20

Okay, I get it, not everyone's looking to play Sega Genesis games on ACTUAL Sega Genesis/Mega Drive. I'll save trying to convert you all for another day, but you can still grab my favorite pad, the 8Bitdo M30, and use it with your PC, Switch, or even a Genesis Mini while spending under $20.

It's still the same 2.4Ghz controller that I use with my Mega Drive, only this one swaps the 9-pin dongle for a USB adapter. I'm actually tempted to pick it up for use with other retro console remakes, but if you don't have one at all, you know what to do.

8Bitdo M30 2.4Ghz USB controller | $24.99 $17.49 at Amazon

I just found an even cheaper Trimui Smart Pro deal at Amazon

As I said before, retro handheld listings at Amazon are slightly chatoic, and a new Trimui Smart Pro offer just popped up. The alternative deal takes 20% off, meaning you can grab the Linux portable for $71.99. It feels like this is a clever seller trying to compete with existing deals already out there, and while there's only a few dollars' difference, I'll take every dime off I can get.

Trimui Smart Pro | $88.99 $71.99 at Amazon

Original PS2 memory cards can be pricey, but Prime Day has your back with a fancy alternative

I have more original PS2 memory cards than I'd like to admit, and I'm a sucker for official accessories. However, they're actually far pricer than you'd think at eBay and other marketplaces, and there's no guarantee their flash memory will still be reliable. So, since some of you might be firing up your old PlayStation 2 consoles without accessories to hand, I thought I'd point out that fancy Kaico Free McBoot 8MB alternative is 20% cheaper, and it can softmod your machine.

Yes, it's not as pretty as Sony's transparent red accessory, but this memory card's Free McBoot capabilities will let you run homebrews and your own backed up games without modding your physical hardware. Not too shabby for something that's under $12, eh?

Kaico Free McBoot 8MB PS2 Memory Card | $14.99 $11.99 at Amazon

Hey, Amazon seller, do us a solid and add your remaining Sega Astro City mini stock to Prime Day

One of my favorite work-related pastimes is checking in on the very few remaining Sega Astro City arcade machines at Amazon to see if they've dropped in price. It's bananas that the long-discontinued mini console is still a thing at the retailer, and while I've abandoned hope on the main machine that's listed for a ridiculous $307, there's a shmup version that's begging for a Prime Day offer.

I'll admit that $109.99 isn't unreasonable for the Sega Astro City V, especially given that it was originally $159 and is now a desirable collectable. However, I've witnessed this exact listing drop under $100 in the past, and since there's apparently only six units left in stock, I feel like now is the time for a surprise Prime Day discount. I've been itching to grab this vertical TATE version for a while, so if it drops, it's going straight in my cart.

Sega Astro City Mini V | $109.99 at Amazon

My hope for better retro handheld deals before Prime Day ends has been rejuvinated

It might feel like Prime Day prices are static, and a lot of the time they are. However, the situation with the Trimui Smart Pro earlier now has me wondering if more portable console sellers will start competing on price. If that happens, we could see some of those yet-to-be-discounted systems actually dip below MSRP, so I'd stick around to see what happens.

Until that happens, though, here's a roundup of all my favorite Prime Day retro handheld deals so far:

Super Pocket Neo Geo Edition | $69.99 $49.99 at Amazon
MagicX Zero 40 | $75.99 $60.79 at Amazon
Trimui Smart Pro | $88.99 $71.99 at Amazon

I just heard modern Xbox consoles are going up in price AGAIN, so maybe we need to all go back to the OG Xbox

Microsoft just boldly announced that it's increasing its 512GB Series X price by $100, and the 1TB is getting a 1TB hike. It's for that reason that I fully believe that, rather than paying up to $800 for a console, we should probably all put the brakes on new hardware and focus on an OG Xbox setup.

The price increase news is super grim, and it's decisions like this that have historically led me to build a retro console collection (the pricey original PS3 reignited my passion 20 years ago). So, if you still want to enjoy Xbox goodness, but want to avoid the eye-watering current-gen prices, I'll help you use Prime Day to revisit past generations in protest, using excellent new accessories and controllers (when they become available/discounted)

Eon XBHD | $149.99 at Amazon (wait for discounts)
Retro Fighters Hunter | Check for stock

The 8Bitdo SNES Retro Receiver at Amazon US is a scam, so I tracked it down elsewhere

Almost all of 8Bitdo's Retro Receivers are down for Prime Day, but the SNES version is notably absent. At least, I thought that was the case before doing some digging and finding an abysmal listing for $67 that's naturally a scam. Rather than accept that it's unpurchasable at the retailer, though, I decided to swing by Aliexpress and found it for $15 instead.

This is a solid example of why it's always good to check other retailers like Aliexpress for retro accessories. Yes, you'll have to wait longer for shipping, and there are a few questionable sellers on the platform, too. But, in this instance, the marketplace has saved the day, allowing anyone who wishes to grab the full lineup of retro receivers to do so.

8Bitdo Bluetooth Retro Receiver for SNES | $27.19 $15.91 at Aliexpress

This is not a drill, you can grab the Burger Time arcade machine I want for under $100

I hope you're hungry for one of the best Prime Day retro deals I've spotted yet, as Amazon's sister site Woot has slashed the Quarter Arcades Burger Time machine to under $100. Yes, the same mini cabinet I keep saying I want in my kitchen is 66% off, and that's a remarkable price for a gorgeous piece of interactive decor that makes for a surprisingly nice way to play (in spite of the tiny controls).

Everything from the authentic glowing marquee, 5-inch screen that weirdly looks like a CRT, surprisingly warm speakers, and rechargeable battery makes this 1/4 cabinet well worth grabbing, and Woot is seriously putting Prime Day to shame.

Quarter Arcades Burger Time | $249.99 $84.99 at Woot

When picking a new retro console, make sure to read between the (scan)lines

It's very easy to get caught up in whether new retro consoles or remakes hit 1080p or 4K, as that would suggest a level of fidelity. However, as a CRT TV expert and someone who specializes in replicating that old experience using new hardware, I can't stress enough how important effects like scanlines are in terms of image quality.

Naturally, you're going to get better options if you fork out for a fancy FPGA system like the Analogue 3D, as the 4K N64 can mimic the coveted Aperture Grille tech of an old Sony Trinitron CRT. Upscalers like the OSSC can also add a shadow mask effect that emulates cheaper tubes, too, but even simple scanlines can provide enough pixelation to help old spites and textures look less like a blocky mess.

The point I'm making is that, when choosing a retro console, it's wise to check the features for scanline filter options so that you at least have something to sharpen things up on new screens. There are some systems that drop the ball in this department, like the Atari 2600+, and that could impact your plans for an authentic experience. I've explored the prospect of using a standalone scanline generator in the past, but as a default, I'd pick something with the lines baked in.

Please don't buy a PSP from Amazon this Prime Day

I knew I wasn't going to strike gold when I searched 'PSP' among this year's Prime Day retro deals, but I thought I'd give it a go just in case something interesting came up. It did, but for all the wrong reasons.

You'll find a bunch of PSPs on these digital shelves right now, but they're all at prices far too high to be worthwhile. We're talking $150 - $200 high.

My advice for picking up a PSP in 2026? Stay patient. Thrift stores, used electronics stores, and marketplace sites regularly have old handhelds going for double figures - I got my first one for $50 and my second for $70. That's because they're often found in a drawer somewhere and the thumbstick's a bit jittery or the screen's a bit cracked. People then list them as broken when, in reality, all you need is a few extra pieces (going for like $10) and a small screwdriver to repair by yourself. Just make sure the thing actually powers on and reads a disc if you're not too experienced with solder.

That Retro R8 gaming mouse actually has some solid specs

This wireless gaming mouse isn't just adorned in cool NES gray and red, it's also got a decent set of specs under the hood - especially for $31.48. A 26,000 DPI sensor is more than most will ever need, and casual players won't even touch the top of that 4,000Hz polling rate. The PAW 3395 sensor is pretty sweet at this price as well.

To tie it all off, 8BitDo also packages in a neat charging cradle to boot.

8BitDo Retro R8 gaming mouse | $49.99 $31.48 at Amazon

Any Mortal Kombat fans in the house?

If you're looking to take your current gen console through the ages, it's worth noting that Mortal Kombat Legacy Kollection is at its lowest ever price at Amazon. The PS5 $49.99 collection of arcade, SNES, Genesis, Game Boy, and Game Gear classics has been trickling downward in price over the last year, but this $29.83 position has the previous record beat by some margin. I've only ever seen this one at between $35 and $40 in the past.

Nintendo Switch fans are also getting in on the action, with a $20 discount on the Switch 2 Edition - also a record-breaking sales price.

PS5 | $49.99 $29.83 at Amazon

NS2 | $59.99 $39.88 at Amazon

THEC64 Mini Black Edition drops to $69.99 at Woot

Yeah, that one - but in black.

The C64 Mini is taken a 42% discount in Woot's own Prime Day retro deals this week, kicking the modernised HD all-in-one console down to $69.99. That's pretty solid considering we normally see this one on sale for between $75 and $85 during lighter events. It has, however, dropped as low as $64.99 in the past.

The C64 Mini Black Edition | $119.99 $69.99 at Woot

The mClassic upscaler for less than $40

If you want a full upscaling solution with all the extra features, you're going to need to spend a bit more than $39.99. If you just want to hook up your 4:3 console to a 1080p panel, the Marseille mClassic is a proven favorite. This little dongle manages particularly well, though will apply anti-aliasing to 8-bit and 16-bit titles.

mClassic upscaler | $99.99 $39.99 at Woot

Chasing that translucent Xbox dream?

The Xbox edition of the 8BitDo Retro mechanical keyboard is down to $71.29 in Amazon's Prime Day deals. That's the cheapest I've ever seen the translucent green deck, and it's especially impressive considering this is actually a decent quality keyboard underneath it all.

You're not exactly getting the premium gasket mounting and foam support of a more luxurious device, but a wireless connection and sturdy set of smooth switches, and plenty of extra controls are difficult to find at a sub-$100 price point day to day. There's even two slappable giant buttons included.

I've had the NES version in my roster for years now, and am always impressed with sales take it this far down the price range.

8BitDo Retro mechanical keyboard (Xbox) | $95.99 $71.29 at Amazon

The MagicX Zero 40 is at its lowest price at Amazon

The MagicX Zero 40 with a 64GB card is down to $60.79 at Amazon right now. That's the cheapest it's ever been on the site, and currently beating MagicX's own sale. You're paying $66 for this vertical, DS-friendly handheld at the official site.

It's a niche proposition, but we still awarded the MagicX Zero 40 a four-star review score when we tested it last year. That vertical screen means it only really works with DS titles and arcade shooters, but it still sits comfortably in the hand and features Hall effect joysticks. If you're replicating some Ninty clamshell magic, this is a fantastic option.

MagicX Zero 40 | $75.99 $60.79 at Amazon

Ok, so it's retro gaming adjacent - but I've got my eye on this DAP-gateway drug

The Snowsky FiiO Echo Mini is a gateway to a much more expensive world of Digital Audio Players. That's a world I've been investigating for some time now. I've had my own share of DAC-equipped players, but this MP3 player looks like a solid entry point for anyone looking to ditch Spotify for less.

We're not talking about a massive discount here - only $5 off its $59.99 MSRP. It's also been a little cheaper before, hitting a $49.99 record low back in November last year. This is the best price of the year for now - but it's also worth watching for that extra $5 off.

Take it from me, once you start ripping CDs, you'll never look back.

SnowSky FiiO Echo Mini | $59.99 $54.99 at Amazon

Reminder: After this batch, the AYN Thor will get more expensive

AYN recently announced a price increase for its Thor handhelds, due to land once Batch 7 is sold through. Right now, you can still grab the dual-screened handheld for its regular $249 price tag, but there's no telling when stocks will run dry.

The brand also announced that the Odin 3 would meet the same fate, with the horizontal handheld also holding onto its previous $339 rate for now.

Ayn Odin 3 | $339 at AYN

Ayn Thor | $249 at AYN

No love for the Lego Game Boy this Prime Day

Alas, the Lego version of the OG handheld isn't taking part in this year's Prime Day deals. That's not too surprising for the US, this one's been stuck at full price ever since launch. Still, I was holding out for a saving this week. We gave it a 4.5/5 star review score, so it's well worth keeping an eye on at Amazon.

Handhelds getting too pricey?

The Steam Deck OLED is now close to $1,000 and retro handhelds are jumping up in price all the time. It's a sorry state of affairs when so many are priced out of the hobby, but if you're after a cheaper way to get going you might already have everything you need in your pocket. There are a number of apps that will allow you to load your ROM collection onto your phone, with many throwing touchscreen control schemes into the mix.

If you'd prefer some physical buttons, a mobile controller is going to be a much cheaper alternative to a full handheld. The GameSir G8 Galileo is the best mobile controller we've tested so far, and it's taking part in Amazon's Prime Day deals.

The $63.99 (was $79.99) gamepad is compatible with Android and iPhones using a USB-C port (15 or newer). It's been a couple of bucks cheaper back last year, but this is the best price of the year so far - on a controller that hasn't budged much from its MSRP in months.

GameSir G8 Galileo | $79.99 $63.99 at Amazon

The final day of Prime Day retro deals is upon us

I'm back for what is the last day of Prime Day deals hunting in 2026!

I've been picking out retro deals for five days now, but I'm hoping some fresh consoles, controllers, and accessories will join the fold before the sale ends. At the same time, I'll be keeping an extra eye on shady sellers who think they can dupe anyone looking for savings last minute, as seeing that big shiny Prime Day label can be deceiving.

With that in mind, grab yourself a beverage and let's dive in to the final day.

This remake of one of most famous joysticks of the '80s is 40% off

If you look up "'80s joystick" in the dictionary, chances are you'll see something that looks like the Quickshot II. Not every microcomputer player out there is a fan of this icon, but it's famous enough to have received a remake by the folks at Retro Games Ltd, and it just so happens to be 40% cheaper for Prime Day.

FYI, if you weren't into the original back in the day, you might dig this revamp, as the USB version is rocking microswitches, better suction cups, and pretty wide USB compatibility with systems like the C64 Mini and Evercade VS.

Quickshot II joystick | $39.99 $23.90 at Amazon

Miyoo's GBA SP clone is under $70, but it's cheaper at Aliexpress

The Miyoo Mini Flip provides the same GBA SP clamshell vibes as the Anbernic RG35XXSP. If you've been craving something that looks like a 2000s Game Boy, but can emulate most retro consoles, you can grab 15% off the handheld with your Prime membership. That'll help get it to your door pretty speedy, but if you're fine with longer delivery waits, you can grab it for under $60 at AliExpress.

Miyoo Mini Flip | $79.99 $67.99 at Amazon with Prime

Be wary of lazy retro deal roundups

Events like Prime Day can do strange things to the internet, and you'll no doubt see more voices than usual shouting about retro deals specifically this year. That's fine and well, especially if it helps players getting into classic hardware, but I've spotted a few instances where people are being steered to overpriced Amazon listings with to rhyme or reason other than "it's Prime Day."

To many, the realm of retro gaming will just be another topic to highlight during Amazon's sale. As a dedicated retro hardware expert who has spent a chunk of their career covering original systems and new remakes, though, the last thing I'll do is point you to something that isn't down to a price I'd pay or provides the right experience.

I'm just hoping rogue retro deal highlights don't catch anyone off guard as Prime Day comes to a close. I'll be here all day to keep you right, and that'll hopefully lead to you diving into some great old games with zero stress.

After spending a night playing PS2 games using the GBS-C upscaler, I'm glad I grabbed it during Prime Day

I thought I'd check in with some thoughts on the ODV GBS-C upscaler, as I've been testing the gadget during my Prime Day downtime. While I'd still recommend grabbing an OSSC line doubler instead for 8-bit or 16-bit era consoles, as it provides punchier results when upscaling 240p, this alternative is a no-brainer for systems like the PS2 with interlaced output. Sadly, it has now jumped up in price, but here are my thoughts regardless.

I'm hoping to share a full hands-on after Prime Day ends, but the takeaway right now is that the ODV GBS-C pulls off ridiculously good de-interlacing for under $100. Many upscalers, including the OSSC, use what's known as "Bob de-interlacing", which makes static graphics in games look jittery in an attempt to turn lines into solid frames. To combat this, the GBS-C also includes a motion-adaptive option that resolves the flickering while providing your screen with progressive scan, and the results are exceptional.

ODV GBS-C HDMI upscaler | $89.90 at Amazon

There are two ways to buy the GameSir Pocket Taco during Prime Day, and one doesn't require a subscription

Prime Day gets pretty messy when it comes to multiple listings, and that's the case for the GameSir Pocket Taco. The mobile Game Boy controller is thankfully down to $27.99 universally, but some sellers have that big red subscriber-only badge slapped on their pages. Thankfully, GameSir itself has a listing that doesn't require membership, so if you've used up all your free trials, you can still grab what is my favorite controller for Ninty's handheld classics.

GameSir Pocket Taco | $44.99 $27.99 at Amazon

Let me know if Prime Day has felt worthwhile this year

Historically, Prime Day has offered up a mixed bag of retro gaming deals. Some years, the sale makes out like the genre doesn't exist, then during others it really makes an impression with super low handheld prices and consoles that are way cheaper than you'd expect. I've love to hear first-hand from you whether you think the sale has been delivering, or if the event has been a dud in 2026

The clock is ticking on Prime Day, and I am seeing deals pop out of existence

I am absolutely the type of person who spends too long in a Sonic the Hedgehog 2 stage and gets that dreaded "time over" message. Therefore, the last thing I want to say is that you should rush to the checkout to avoid missing out on Prime Day deals. What I will say, though, is that a few offers I expected to stick around until tomorrow have jumped up to full price, so if you are pretty sure you're going to pick up a retro console, controller, or gadget, I'd consider bagging it sooner than later.

There's a big angry red timer on the Super Pocket deal

Apparently Amazon thinks its Time Crisis, as the Prime Day label on deals like the Super Pocket has turned into a countdown timer. According to the retailer that refuses to relax, you've got just over 20 hours to nab the Super Pocket Neo Geo Edition for under $50, and while a little goblin is saying "wait until last minute to spite them," I guess you don't want to risk the handheld selling out if you've set your heart on one.

Super Pocket Neo Geo Edition | $69.99 $49.99 at Amazon

The PS1 still makes for a fantastic CD player, especially if you pair it with great speakers

Okay, this is a bit of a different retro deal, as I just spotted the exact Edifier speakers I use with my PS1 for less. If you happen to have an earlier "audiophile" version of Sony's first system, it actually has audio output phonos around back, and that will let you use it as a makeshift '90s Hi-Fi with really sweet visualization effects. The R1280Ts aren't just part of my weird living room music setup, though; they also hook up to my record player and even modern consoles via optical and 3.5mm inputs.

Edifier R1280Ts Powered Bookshelf Speakers | $169.99 $113.99 at Amazon

If you're into console modding, head straight to AliExpress

I'd love to show you lots of Prime Day deals that'll help you mod your consoles and handhelds. In theory, discounts on screens and HDMI kits aren't an impossibility, but you'll almost always find what you're looking for at AliExpress for significantly less. At least, that is the case when it comes to the actual components, as it's just easier to ship them straight from the source (China) than third parties who have imported the goods.

Retro console mods at AliExpress

Don't be tricked by this Evercade Turrican collection deal

I've just stumbled across another tricksy retro deal, and this time it applies to The Turrican Collection for Evercade. There's an offer floating around that chops 18% off a listing with a $44.99 price tag, but Amazon is selling the game direct for $29.99. Simply put, you're paying more for a supposedly discounted version, so it's always worth double-checking MSRPs and ensuring sellers aren't inflating prices to manufacture offers.

Don't be like me, grab a case for your Super Pocket

I'll spare you the lecture and say if you haven't got your Super Pocket handheld in a protective case, you can grab 20% off one for Prime Day. I tend to leave mine lying on the desk, ready to be accidentally yeeted on the daily, and that has absolutely happened more than once.

Super Pocket hard case | $14.99 $11.99 at Amazon

Some retro deals will still be around post Prime Day

Many websites on the internet will be going bananas about how Prime Day retro deals are ending tonight and you buy everything ASAP. In truth, the only offers you really have keen a specific eye on are the ones tied exclusively to the sale. Some listings are vanilla discounts that just so happen to be live during the event, and while those could also turn into pumpkins when midnight strikes, they might also be around after the fact.

TL;DR - Prime Day deals aren't worth worrying about, and buying retro tech shouldn't be a stressful rush.

Don't laugh at my tiny buttons :(

During sales, I often try to look for retro gadgets that are frankly just a bit daft. This year, I've been keeping an eye out for the IINE Gamebrick, a ridiculously small NES controller that, against all odds, is actually still functional. We're talking the same dimensions as a Nintendo DS cart, and while it usually lives on my carabiner, it has come in handy a few times for playing games while travelling.

Sadly, it's AWOL from Amazon, which is surprising since its larger mini controller cousin is 20% cheaper for Prime Day ($18.39 down from $22.99). That said, it will only set you back around $8 at Aliexpress, so if you're using the sale as an excuse to buy something silly but serviceable, I'd give it a look.

Spend $70, give Mario a gun

I've already ranted on numerous occasions why you should buy a Summercart64 if you have an N64. The fact it's 15% off for Prime Day isn't even the biggest reason, as it provides excellent flash cart abilities that'll have you playing everything from amazing Zelda fan ROM hacks to unreleased outings and betas.

However, if you're still not sold, just know you can also use it to play Shotgun Mario 64, a ROM hack that arms the plumber with a double-barreled boom stick. If 12-year-old me knew this was a thing, they'd lose their mind, and the fact there are platforming elements that use shot kickback adds an extra layer of absurdity to the mod.

Kaico Summercart64 flash cart | $82.99 $70.39 at Amazon

Prime Day thinks $20 is a good deal for N64 cart protectors, but AliExpress has them for under a buck

Oh, Amazon, we need to stop having this conversation.

While browsing for some Prime Day retro deals for under $20, I stumbled across a pack of transparent N64 cart boxes. They're 20% off and proudly wearing a big red sale badge, but the issue is that I can go buy a pack from AliExpress for the grand total of $0.99. No, really, you can buy the same 20-pack for 5% of the price.

This scenario highlights an issue with Amazon, as more often than not, sellers are buying their stock from AliExpress and selling items with a big profit margin for a lot more. Simply put, if you cut out the middleman and go straight to the marketplace, you can save a small fortune on some of the cheaper bits and bobs for your retro games and collection.

This excellent Atari handheld was cheaper before Prime Day, and that's extremely annoying

Exactly a week before Prime Day, My Arcade's Atari Pocket Player Pro handheld was $25. I assumed that discount would have stuck around for Prime Day, but nope, it decided to jump up to $39.99 instead. The listing claims that's 11% cheaper than usual, but $40 is the going rate.

In truth, this is an example of how Prime Day can sometimes hinder better discounts, and demonstrates that why it's better to grab some gadgets before or after the sale. I know some of you will think $40 is cheap enough and buy one anyway, but it's my duty to make it extremely clear that this is not a deal.

Atari Pocket Player Pro | $44.99 $39.99 at Amazon

Here's some handy retro gizmos that are under $20 for Prime Day

It can be hard to fish out the cheapest Prime Day retro deals while still grabbing gadgets that are, well, good. #

Therefore, I've taken some time to pick out deals under $20 that are well worth considering before midnight. I've already heavily talked about some accessories, like 8Bitdo's Retro Receivers, but there are a few standout controllers too, and even memory cards that will soft mod your PS2.

Kaico Free McBoot PS2 memory card | $14.99 $11.99 at Amazon
8Bitdo M30 2.4GHz USB controller | $24.99 $17.99 at Amazon
IINE mini bluetooth retro controller | $20.68 $16.86 at Amazon
8Bitdo Retro Receiver for PS1/PS2 | $24.99 $19.99 at Amazon

The Gulikit Elves 2 Pro just got a ridiculous last minute 40% discount

The last thing I was expecting was for the black version of the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro (my best retro controller overall pick) to show up less than 24 hours before Prime Day ends with 40% off. It almost feels the listing has accidentally dropped to the same price as the non-Pro version, with less fancy rumble and a lack of colorful buttons, so if you've been deliberating on grabbing one, deliberate no more.

Again, this is the transparent black version, which will pair nicely with the Japanese Sega Saturn with the same shell. Colorway aside, it'll work wonderfully with any retro system and Bluetooth retro receiver you happen to have to hand.

Gulikit Elves 2 Pro (black) | $33.99 $23.99 at Amazon

The Evercade Alpha will be under $200 until midnight (or stock runs dry)

There aren't many Evercade deals left in the US, but the Alpha arcade machine is still around for under $200. It now has one of those big scary timers counting down until midnight, though, and that could prompt people to jump on the deal before Prime Day officially wraps up.

The Evercade Alpha is without a doubt one of the best mini arcade machines I've tested to date. That's largely thanks to its cartridge support, as it means you've got access to over 500 classics on something that will double up as a standalone retro console. You can either use it as a bar top cabinet or plug in a USB controller and play everything from the Tomb Raider collection to even Banjo-Kazzoie when the cart arrives in October on its 8-inch IPS display, making it an ideal space-saving time capsule.

Evercade Alpha Street Fighter 2 Edition | $279.99 $199.99 at Amazon

I wish I could tempt you all to buy a big silly Mortal Kombat machine

During any sale, I traditionally enjoy seeing full-sized Arcade1Up machines down to record-low prices. Specifically, I always joke about replacing my fridge with the Mortal Kombat version, and I sort of ended up doing that last year. However, the company was acquired by its rival Basic Fun last year, and as a result, I'm not seeing any standout offers so far.

Perhaps we'll see a return to form during sales later in the year, but right now, the most you can save on Amazon's Arcade1up cabinets is around 9%.

See more Arcade1Up arcade machines at Amazon

Hyperkin's PC Engine/Turbografx-16 remake is back under $50

Perhaps it was a hiccup, but the Hyperkin Retron GX seemingly jumped back to full price earlier. However, I can confirm the PC Engine/Tubrografx-16 HDMI system is back under $50, and I'm hoping it'll stick around until midnight.

As a recap, this is an imperfect recreation of the NES rival that runs actual Hucards (albeit by ROM dumping the game into an emulator). During testing, I found its compatibility was a bit too scrappy to justify its original $129.99 price tag, but for under $50, it's a solid way to get started collecting and playing for a relatively obscure retro platform.

Hyperkin Retron GX | $69.99 $49.99 at Amazon

There's a way to play Switch 2 games with a DualShock, and it's thanks to two retro gizmos

Last year, I came up with the arguably cursed idea to plug 8Bitdo's GameCube Retro Receiver into a Mayflash GameCube Adapter connected to a Switch 2.

The result? I spent the night playing Switch 2 games with a DualSense. Yes, it's an elaborate way to turn Sony's gamepad and the latest Nintendo console into forbidden lovers, but if you're into the idea of doing just that, you can grab the required dongle for $19.99. The Mayflash GameCube adapter isn't discounted, but considering it'll also let you use wired pads with the new handheld for $18.99, it's still not that pricey.

It's naturally not discounted, but the Banjo-Kazooie Super Pocket officially releases today

If you've been waiting to pounce on the shiny new Super Pocket Rare Edition, and couldn't care less about Prime Day, you'll be thrilled to hear it releases today. For $69.99, you can play Banjo-Kazooie and a bunch of other gems from the developer on something that will actually fit in your pocked (yes, I have put it in my pocket to check how pocketable the pocket-sized handheld is), and it'll run all the same cartridges as other flavors.

Super Pocket Rare Edition | $69.99 $49.99 at Amazon

This classic Game Boy-inspired case is all I bought this Prime Day

Hello, I'm Rosalie, and I'm here to keep the Prime Day Retro gaming deal train going strong.

I'm not sure if Phil will get annoyed at me for sharing this, as it's technically for the Nintendo Switch 2, but elago's Game Boy-inspired game cart holder is still included in this week's deals and is $10.64 right now instead of its usual $14.99 full price.

It's actually one of the only items I've picked up during Prime Day, which is why I feel more strongly about recommending it to retro-gaming fans, namely as it's more high-quality than I thought it'd be. At a quick glance, I thought it'd be a solid piece of plastic, but it's actually made of a soft silicon-type material (which is why it's prone to dust as seen in the image above), and feels more substantial than I thought it would.

If you care more about repping' the iconic handheld rather than actually playing one, it's a nice accessory to have in your collection. Okay, back to the typical deals.

elago Switch Game Case | $14.99 $10.64 at Amazon

The Miyoo Mini Plus was my first trip down retro-inspired handheld lane, but I wish this deal was better

Thanks to Phil's influence, I now own a few different handhelds besides my original Ninty machines, and my favorite of the lot is undoubtedly the Miyoo Mini Plus.

It captures the feeling of playing my original Game Boy Color growing up, but feels more comfortable to hold, thanks to its handy dandy back buttons. But what I love about it the most is that it's allowed me to sit back and play my childhood favorite SNES and PS games all without the effort of sourcing the originals off my gaming shelf - I just wish its Prime Day deal was better so you could experience the same.

I managed to pick mine up through Aliexpress for around $50 over a year ago, but it's currently listed for $65.98 instead today. At least that does include a little carrying case, which I had to pick up separately, which is better than nothing. If you don't feel comfortable ordering from Aliexpress (and I know many don't), then you can pick it up from Amazon, and I won't judge you for it. At least you've got the full spread of design options to choose from, which should help soften the blow of the lack of a decent deal. (The 'Transparent Purple' one is easily the best, right?)

Miyoo Mini Plus | $79.99 $65.98 at Amazon

I've been playing Star Fox all night and now I'm eyeing up the discounted 8BitDo 64 controller

Star Fox for the Nintendo Switch 2 launched yesterday, and I was up until the early hours of the morning blasting my way through the Lylat System. The game is compatible with the official Nintendo Switch Online N64 wireless controller, which I do own and I'm going to try out over the weekend, but I can't help but think the 8BitDo 64 pad might be a better fit.

Ever since Phil's 8BitDo 64 controller review, I've not been able to stop thinking about it. I'm one of the few people who actually likes the original pad's bizarre M-shape design, but the combination of a modern controller shape and the 64's pad's buttons sounds like a 90's kid dream come true. I can only imagine that it'd pair pretty well with the new Star Fox, and could maybe even help me get better at fighting Star Wolf and pals, as I seem to have lost the skills I once had to blast them out Venom's skies.

Honestly, I'd be eyeing it up in this post Star Fox-release haze regardless of its current deal price, but the 15% off saving is making it even more enticing.

8BitDo 64 Bluetooth Controller | $44.99 $38.24 at Amazon

I just bought my first Super Pocket device and this Evercade Tomb Raider collection needs to be mine

My first-ever Super Pocket device arrived in the post yesterday, and I'm pretty fond of the little thing. As a huge Banjo-Kazooie fan (I even used to cosplay as Kazooie back in the day), I couldn't not add the Rare edition device to my collection - even if I already have multiple ways to play through the game.

One of the neatest things about it, besides Banjo-Kazooie being playable right out of the bat, is that the handheld is compatible with Evercade carts, so I could potentially pick up the Blaze Evercade Tomb Raider Collection 1, which is down to $28.49 at Amazon, and play through more classic 90 games from my childhood on the go.

I do wish the deal on these Evercade game collections was better during Prime Day, as that set in particular has been as low as $18.55 in the past, according to my handy-dandy CamelCamelCamel price checker. But I was going to pick up a few of these regardless, so even a few cents is better than no cents.

Blaze Evercade Tomb Raider Collection 1 | $29.99 $28.49 at Amazon

If you love old-school game sprite art, then this Divoom Ditoo deal might be a perfect fit

This is another cheeky retro gaming-inspired deal to bring up today, but hoping Phil allows as this is a speaker I personally have sitting at my desk right now.

This little device that looks like something you'd find while exploring an abandoned vault in Fallout is designed to display pixelated artwork that you can create yourself via the Divoom app. If you don't have the creative touch, the app includes access to a plethora of community-created artwork (like the Kirby art by user Twilights, as shown above), which you can display as you see fit.

It's also a speaker that can play music by hooking up to your smartphone over Bluetooth, and Divoom has even packed in some basic games into the device too, because why not? Not to mention, it's just $64.99 at Amazon right now while the Prime Day deals are still active. It's not a huge saving, and it's a very niche accessory that works better as a compliment to any gaming room or space, rather than a fixture, but I thought I'd let you know in case you want a way to show off your favorite old-school game art.

Divoom Ditoo Retro Pixel Art Game Bluetooth Speaker | $79.99 $64.59 at Amazon

The CRKD Atom controller deals have ended, but the thumb-sized retro pad is still cheap as chips

The CRKD Atom is a teeny tiny retro-inspired controller that's compatible with the Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, your smartphone, and gaming PCs - basically any device that's suited to most Bluetooth gamepads.

It shares a similar shape to the SNES, but it's the size of your thumb, or at least, it's the same size as mine. These tiny pads were included in this week's Prime Day sales and have now returned to their usual $15.98 price, but I'd still recommend them even without any discounts. They come in a variety of colors, including a "PAL Grey" which I'm sure many of you fellow UK SNES fans will appreciate.

There's a new model on its way, which I'm sure Phil will be inspecting and writing about in the future. Yet if you want a tiny, cute controller that you can also attach to your backpack, these are still in stock at Amazon and great little pickup for your collection.

CRKD Atom Collectible Keychain Controller (Atomic Purple) | $15.98 at Amazon

My mum bought me one of these NES clones with built-in games, but please don't make the same mistake

Searching for Retro gaming-related Prime Day deals at Amazon right now floods the search results with those NES clones which are decked out with hundreds, sometimes up to 700+ built-in games, and they are a complete waste of money in my experience.

Despite being more well-versed in gaming than the average parent, my mum mistakenly bought me one of those un-licecned NES consoles, and it was a mess. It was filled with badly-converted roms, and most of the games were just the same 100 presented again to fill up the promised number that was printed on the box.

I still have it kicking around in my office right now, and I'm not sure what to do with it besides use it as a cautionary tale for those looking for a way to play classic NES games at home. Maybe one day I could hollow out the insides and use it's reasonably nice looking chassis for a custom Raspberry Pi build? Remind me to ask Phil about it.

Why hello there NES-inspired 8BitDo Retro R8 mouse with a Prime Day deal

Each time I take a moment to check if any new Prime Day retro gaming deals, I keep stumbling upon the 8BitDo Retro R8 Mouse. If only my setup didn't have an outrageous pink and cozy theme, as otherwise I'd be all over the NES-inspired rodent, especially as it's still down a record low right now as the last remnants of Prime Day trickle on.

8BitDo Retro R8 gaming mouse | $49.99 $31.48 at Amazon

I wish LEGO's Game Boy set was included in this week's sales, although I'd probably forget to build it if it was

Ever since we first caught a look at Lego's stunning Game Boy set, I've wanted to pick it up. It comes with two 'cartridges' of Super Mario Land and The Legend of Zelda Link's Awakening, two games I played constantly growing up and still have a soft spot for today.

Unfortunately, there are no discounts on this set, but honestly, $60 seems pretty fair, especially when I know how expensive Lego sets can be. I own a fair few (though I've still yet to build them), and they can be almost as eye-watering in price as gaming tech these days. Yet $60 for a set that lovingly recreates the classic handheld, and allows you to display different screenshots? Sign me up!

LEGO Super Mario Game Boy | $59.95 at Amazon

Game Sir's Pocket Taco Prime Day saving is still going strong

The GamrSir Pocket Taco is another retro-gadget that was brought to my attention by our retro expert Phil, though that's true for most retro accessories.

This little mobile controller can slip onto your smartphone and give you some tangible physical buttons to press while playing older games, rather than sticking to touch-screen controls. It's also got Bluetooth compatibility to boot, and it's $27.99 deal price is still sticking around as Prime Day is beginning to wind down.

GameSir Pocket Taco | $44.99 $27.99 at Amazon

Got games on your phone? As this 8BitDo Mobile Clip deal could help with that

If you happen to have the 8BitDo Pro 2/Pro 3 controller in your setup, then you might be interested to know that the brand's compatible mobile clip is down to $11.99 right now, saving you a few dollars off its full $14.99 MSRP.

This clip allows you to attach your smartphone to the controller so you can easily use the retro-themed gamepads to play games. It's a nice option to have, especially if you've been used to just propping up your phone against any upright surface you can get your hands on instead, which is typically what I do if I'm testing out a Bluetooth controller with my Samsung S26.

8BitDo Mobile Clip | $14.99 $11.99 at Amazon

The SEGA nerd within me is finding it harder to ignore this Genesis-style gamepad saving

I'm more known as a die-hard Nintendo fan. "Neeno" was even my first word, and if you don't believe me, go ask my mum. That being said, I was still an equally big Sonic the Hedgehog nerd, and Sonic 2 on what I call the Mega Drive (sorry US pals) was my go-to pickup. I know for a fact that our hardware expert Phil uses this very 8BitDo M30 controller to play through that game, alongside a receiver to get it working with the original hardware, and that's got me eyeing up this remaining Prime Day saving more than ever.

I own a fair few versions of the SEGA console in my collection, and the idea of not having to be tethered to a cable sounds like a dream - as does the fact I'd be saving $6 today. If you want it too, I recommend grabbing this deal while you still can, as Amazon's Prime Day savings are coming to a close.

8Bitdo M30 Bluetooth controller | $29.99 $23.99 at Amazon

This teeny tiny 1/4 scale arcade machine has an entirely playable version of TMNT Turtles in Time packed inside

I'm a big TMNT fan, or at least a fan of the 80s/90s cartoon series. I've cosplayed April O'Neil, I have TMNT toys and figures cluttering up my gaming room-themed office, and I still have the original VHS tapes that got me hooked on turtle power to begin with.

That's why out of all the Numskull Quarter Arcades out there, this TMNT Turtle's in Time model is one I want the most. It's currently $235.16 at Amazon today, which isn't a record low but is still less than the approximately $280 price it was just months ago, according to my handy CamelCamelCamel price checker. It's a bit more than I've ever paid for a single TMNT item, but the fact that you can actually play the classic arcade game in its entirety on this stunning collector's item is enough motivation for me to add it to my collection.

TMNT Turtles in Time Collector's Edition Mini Arcade | $299.99 $235.16 at Amazon

I wish the Super Pocket Rare was discounted, but if you've ever wanted a device just for Banjo-Kazooie, you know where to find it

The new Super Pocket Rare edition is not part of this week's Prime Day deals, but I mean, it did just release as of yesterday, so that's not entirely surprising. Regardless, this is a very cool device to pick up if you're a Banjo-Kazooie fan, as it includes the game baked in, and it runs like an absolute dream.

I've played Rare's bear and bird adventure on the original N64, on the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, and by other means I won't delve into, but honestly, it's been a while since I've seen it look this good. It looks so nice on the handheld's vivid screen that I ended up getting distracted playing it for a while last night, instead of the brand-new Star Fox that launched on the same day. Oops.

Super Pocket Rare Edition | $69.99 at Amazon

These Sega Genesis carts open up to reveal iconic display pieces, and my gaming room needs them

These Console Heroes dioramas are pretty neat. I bought a Sonic the Hedgehog one for my friend as a gift last year, and I was so jealous that I haven't been able to stop thinking about them since, especially as there are a few based on different classic Genesis games, including one for Street Fighter 2.

It's just $11.99 at Amazon as Prime Day is coming to a close, and I can't help but think that it'd make for a great display piece for my gaming room. I have a fair few Street Fighter items already, but none that can close up and look the part amongst games like this. The brand also has a "Boss Bundle" which recreates the console itself, rather than just a cartridge, which might be a better pick for those of you who aren't privy to your hadoukens.

Console Heroes Super Street Fighter II Collectible Diorama | $14.99 $11.99 at Amazon

Pssssst, there's still a lot of 8BitDo retro-flavoured deals kicking around

While this year's summer Prime Day retro gaming deals haven't been that great if you ask me, there's at least a ton of savings on 8BitDo gadgets still to be found right now.

The brand is behind some of the neatest retro-inspired controllers, adapters, and more, and plenty of them are just that little bit cheaper. Remember, this is the last day of Prime Day, so while there's plenty of 8BitDo savings still live right now, in a few hours they'll be gone for good. Well, at least until the next big saving event rolls around.

8BitDo Bluetooth Retro Receiver for PS1/PS2 | $24.99 $19.99 at Amazon
8BitDo Pro 3 + Charging Dock | $69.99 $45.59 at Amazon
8BitDo Lite 2 Bluetooth gamepad | $34.99 $20.59 at Amazon

This PS1 clone pad is still a great buy

You really can't beat the PS1 aesthetics of the GameSir Tegenaria Lite wired controller, and despite us flagging this deal right at the start of Prime Days, the discount is still up for grabs. It's not a Bluetooth connection on this wired pad, but it is a USB one that's perfect for emulation on PC, Raspberry Pi or whatever your personal setup might be. And for $15.99 you can't really go wrong.

GameSir Tegenaria Lite wired controller | $19.99 $15.99 at Amazon

The black C64 Mini is an absolute steal right now

Now we flagged the C64 Mini earlier this week when it was down to $65-odd, but now it's dropped again as part of a limited time Amazon Prime Day deal. It's not quite the Commodore 64 Ultimate, and lacks a real keyboard, but being able to load your own roms as well as getting access to those built it is pretty neat.

C64 Mini Black Edition | $79.97 $49.99 at Amazon

Phil's 'jack of all trades' retro pad is still discounted

Phil's clocked off for the night, but I couldn't help checking whether his self-certified "jack of all trades" retro pad was still on offer as we round out Prime Day. The Gulikit Elves 2 Pro is a bluetooth pad, so you'll have to pair it with a retro receiver, but it's got great features. They include a disc-shaped D-pad, hall-effect thumb sticks, and more.

Gulikit Elves 2 Pro | $39.99 $33.99 at Amazon

The 8Bitdo SN30 Pro hasn't dipped below $30 as Phil hoped, but there's still a chance to catch it

Our hardware expert Phil had hoped that 8BitDo's SN30 Pro controller would drop below the $30 price mark this Prime Day, but alas, it has not. The closer we inch towards the end of this summer's Amazon sales bonanza, the SNES-inspired pad still remains at $35.99, but that's still $9 off its full price - a saving that's better than nothing if you ask me.

If you're after a controller that feels like a more high-tech SNES pad, and includes a pair of hall effect sticks to make it better compatible with modern systems (I'm looking at you Switch 2), then you still have a few hours left to catch this deal.

8BitDo SN30 Pro | $44.99 $35.99 at Amazon

Hey PSP fans, the Trimui Smart Pro is still on offer

I still have my original PSP and my PS Vita, and they're working fine. That being said, I really like the look of the Trimui Smart Pro, especially as its sticks don't look recessed and awkward to move like Sony's past portables.

Prime Day knocked this Linux-powered device down to $71.99 this week, and this deal price is still kicking around. Like all the rest of today's limited retro-gaming discounts, however, it won't be around much longer, so I recommend jumping on this if you want to pick up a PSP-inspired device without having to start the arduous task of hunting through the likes of eBay for a decent second-hand PSP bargain.

Trimui Smart Pro | $89.99 $71.99 at Amazon

PSA: You gotta be fast to grab these retro gaming deals as Prime Day is coming to a close

Prime Day isn't a day at all, but a four-day event that Bezos HQ announced would end at 11:59 p.m. PDT, June 26. While it's currently 11 PM over here in the UK, it's shortly after 3 PM PDT, so time is ticking away, and the deals are slowly but surely going to disappear.

If you want to grab any of the retro gaming deals above, or any of the other ones we've highlighted today, now is the time. Deals can sometimes disappear well before the event comes to a close, so it's always better to just go for it if you're worried about losing out. Or at least, that's my principle when it comes to sales anyway.

View all retro gaming deals at Amazon

GameCube fans with a Switch 2 will get a kick out of this mobile controller

I'm still waiting on the abxylute N9C controller that looks like the brand has sawed the iconic pad in half, but until then, Amazon has the abxylute S8 mobile controller available for $45.99 (Amazon), which is still flaunting its GameCube inspirations.

The Bluetooth-powered mobile controller is compatible with smartphones, the Nintendo Switch, and the Nintendo Switch 2, and includes two ergonomic handles that attach to the sides of your phone (or handheld screen) like a pair of Joy-Con replacements. The neat thing about this model in particular is that it's mimicking the purple color palette of the GameCube, and it even has the bright yellow stick on the right in lieu of the C-stick.

abxylute S8 Bluetooth Mobile Gaming Controller | $59.99 $45.99 at Amazon

That adorable Pac-Man plush I spy in the background of Phil's photos is part of Prime Day

Just this moment, I discovered a particularly interesting deal: it's none other than the Vampire Pac-Man I often spot sneaking in the background of Phil's article photos.

This delightful toothy plush is currently $13.49 at Amazon, instead of its usual $17.99, if you have a Prime membership, and I'm super jealous as it's not up on the UK storefront. The 7-inch collectible isn't a typical retro gaming deal we'd cover, but as it so often cameos in Phil's photos and is a retro collectible of sorts, so I felt it was a fitting deal to end on.

Toynk PAC-Man Halloween Vampire Plush | $17.99 $13.79 at Amazon

That's goodbye for now - but don't forget you can still grab Prime Day deals if you're fast enough

The clock is about to strike midnight, and so like Cinderella, I must return to my carriage that's waiting for me. By carriage, I of course mean my bed with a stack of handhelds beside it, but the finer details aren't important.

While my time sharing retro gaming deals has ended, Prime Day in the US is still going strong. Those of you across the pond have plenty of time to grab a bargain (like the ones Phil has shared above), though today is your last day. In the UK the deals have wrapped up, but I do recommend having a look as there's always stragglers even when a big sales event like Prime Day has come to a close.

The fact that it's Sonic the Hedgehog's 35th anniversary fills me with both horror and delight. The terror comes from the fact that the blue blur and I are the same age, which makes me want to crumble into fine dust. I will delight in shouting at you to play the original 16-bit capers on an actual Sega Genesis (or Mega Drive if you're where I am), and I've got plenty of tricks to make the '90s system feel modern.

I consider all the best retro consoles to be my children, so I don't like picking favorites. As Sonic celebrates his big 35th birthday, it feels like I can confess that the Mega Drive is in my top three, and I've spent extensive time dialling in my setup to get the most out of the 16-bit hardware. Making Sega's old gadget look strikingly good both on CRT TVs and modern panels is a party trick I reserve for visitors (and my Tails-obsessed partner), and I always get good facial expressions when I whip out the wireless gamepads.

Yes, I am a catch, but the hours I've spent picking out the best retro controllers for systems like the Mega Drive and sussing out how to connect your retro consoles to modern TVs and monitors are about to pay off. Effectively, I'm well-positioned to show you how to properly celebrate Sonic's 35th anniversary, and you might even have a use for Prime Day gaming deals should you decide to copy my homework.

One of the best gifts you can give Sonic as he makes his return to your Genesis is the power of RGB. Sega's hardware has the ability to put out a really clean red, blue, and green video signal if you use a European Scart cable, and it makes the console instantly compatible with upscalers like the OSSC.

Admittedly, my main setup has a CRT TV at its core, but I get that finding an old tube set in working order isn't something you'll necessaily do over Prime Day. But, when I'm playing on modern gaming monitors and TVs, I use the OSSC (or Open Source Scan Converter if you're its mother).

You can grab cheaper HDMI converters that'll work with your Genesis, and considering some of them are going for $22.99 at Amazon, I can see why you'd go for one. They do get the job done, but using a proper line-doubling upscaler is going to ensure every pixel pops, 4:3 aspect ratios are maintained, and latency is kept to a minimum.

The nice thing about the OSSC is that it'll work with any retro console that supports RGB Scart output. That means you're not just buying Sonic a really elaborate birthday treat, not to mention it's more affordable than enthusiast-grade upscalers by the likes of RetroTINK. Yes, the 4K Pro model does use a fancy FPGA chip that adds effects that'd put my 1080p setup to shame, but honestly? Even I've not got a spare $750 to spend on one of those.

I've already spoiled that I use a wireless controller with my Sega Genesis, but my pad of choice has changed as of this year. Previously, I was rocking Retro-Bit's officially licensed six-button gamepad, but I've since swapped it out with 8Bitdo M30. Having spent literal hours running through Sonic the Hedgehog 2 to pick a victor, the latter felt the most like a fresher version of my absolute favorite wired pad, the Japanese SJ-6000, even though the Retro-Bit version does accurately mimic the PAL version.

Trust me when I say I can tell the difference when trying to avoid those idiot starfish in Metropolis Zone, and don't get me started on timing those end Death Egg jumps. Not once did I feel like 8Bitdo's pad was hampering my efforts to bounce on Robotnik's shiny dome, which is absolutely a testament to its solid 2.4GHz connectivity, excellent-feeling button membranes, and comfortable dog-bone ergonomics.

As an optional extra, you might also want to pick up a flash cart to accompany your physical game collection. Mine is sadly on loan right now, so I can't provide photographic evidence of it in action, but it's handy for playing Sonic ROM hacks, like Sonic Classic Heroes and Metal Sonic Hyperdrive, or even the appropriately named "An Ordinary Sonic ROM Hack" creepy pasta fan creation that totally isn't going to keep you up at night.

You can take Sonic out for a birthday treat

All my serious original Sonic runs happen on my Sega Mega Drive, but I am partial to rolling around on handhelds when on the couch or out and about. Undoubtedly, the portable for the job is the Anbernic RG ARC-D, as it does a commendable job replicating Sega's original six-button layout and d-pad while looking like a Japanese Sega Saturn.

The ARC D isn't the cheapest handheld out there at $89, but you're getting some serious Sega goodness that's specifically suited to playing fighting games, or in my household's case, some Sonic the Hedgehog 2 while waiting for pizza to be delivered on a Friday night. The dual Android and Linux handheld's 16-bit emulation abilities are also solid, even if there's still lots of sweating while dealing with those previously a-hole starfish.

I'll be continually searching for ways to enhance my Genesis/Mega Drive setup. If you do emulate some aspects of the current build, though, you'll have everything you need to play the original Sonic games in the most authentic manner possible, all while enjoying some contempoary console comforts.

• Retro consoles at Amazon
• Retro controllers at Amazon

Looking for a portable punch? Swing by the best gaming handhelds for powerful systems you can take on the go.

Now, I'm not so sure everyone will be diving into Prime Day looking for a new Sega Dreamcast controller. However, I like to cater to the niche needs of my retro-loving readers, so I thought I'd highlight my favorite modern, wireless gamepad for the system and its six-button sibling that'll better fulfil the needs of all you fighting game fans out there.

I've spent the first half of 2026 picking out the best retro controllers for every console I own, and the Retro Fighters StrikerDC is a solid Dreamcast contender. I'm waiting for it to get in the Prime Day spirit, as it's still going for $64.99 at Amazon, but the D6 version that serves as a fighting pad is sitting pretty at $39.95, and while it's not technically a Prime Day gaming deal, it has dipped just in time for the sale.

Ultimately, you're getting a pretty sensational wireless gamepad solution for the Dreamcast regardless of version. Retro Fighters has nailed the age-old problem of cutting the cord while retaining compatibility with Sega's VMU (Visual Memory Unit), as both come with a docking station receiver that links the pad via a 2.4GHz connection.

Whether or not to go for the StrikerDC or D6 purely comes down to genre preferences. I personally use Sega's last hardware hurrah as a Neo Geo AES alternative since it boasts plenty of ports of that expensive system's games. If, like me, you're planning on mainly playing a bunch of King of Fighters entries, or even some of Capcom's romps like Street Fighter Alpha, Third Strike, or Marvel vs Capcom, grabbing the versions with a superior disc d-pad and six-button layout is a no-brainer.

Naturally, that means you'll be losing the single hall-effect analogue stick and triggers that are mandatory for 3D classics. The blue blur won't be going anywhere without the former in Sonic Adventure, and while you could make a case for using the D6's d-pad for Resident Evil: Code Veronica, a more conventional layout will save you from being munched.

It's a good job that both Retro Fighters' Dreamcast controllers are pretty great, as there aren't many alternatives out there. You could go down the route of grabbing a Blueretro Bluetooth adapter, like this one for $30, but most controllers aren't going to feel quite right on Sega's system. The closest pad in terms of layout I can think of is the single-stick 8Bitdo N64 controller, but even then, it's got those abnoxiously big A and B buttons that only make sense on Ninty's first 3D machine.

Therefore, I do think sticking with the Retro Fighters duo is the right call. I'll be swinging right back here with an update if the StrikerDC drops during Prime Day this week, but if you're a brawller, that D6 pad is already down to its lowest price. There's always a risk that deals without the branding will leap back in in price during the event for whatever reason, so keep that in mind if you're eyeing it up right now.

• Retro controllers at Amazon
• Retro consoles at Amazon

Planning to play on the go? Swing by the best retro handhelds for remakes, emulation systems, and more.

I enjoy janky old gamepads as much as the next console collector, but the best retro controllers of today are a solid alternative. Rather than feeling like one of those "little brother" third-party pads from back in the day, there are some new, bespoke pad options out there that offer tactile buttons, excellent d-pads, reliable wireless connectivity, and a level of comfort that will help even the oldest classics feel contemporary.

Don't get me wrong, I'm a staunch believer that many of the best retro controllers are the originals that came with your retro console. It makes sense given that those trusty old wired pads were designed specifically with their respective platforms and games in mind, and there's a reason why icons like the DualShock and OG Xbox controller serve as blueprints for the pads we use today.

At the same time, some retro controllers, like the infamously quirky N64 controller and its spaceship shell, are an acquired taste. I also spent a lot of time refurbishing old pads, as even the greatest options of all time that came with the NES, SNES, and PS1 don't feel too hot today, thanks to aging parts. Therefore, there's a case to be made for picking up a box-fresh retro controller for your favorite console and embracing boons like wireless, hall-effect sensors that eliminate stick drift, and shells that offer up superior comfort.

Best retro controller overall

Gulikit has pulled off something remarkable with its Elves 2 Pro. Rather than crafting a retro controller that feels like an alternative to a specific gamepad, it's made something ready to stand in for everything, and that's spectacular given the generational differences between something like the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive controller and the DualShock 2.

Naturally, the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro has "Jack of all trades" vibes, but the "master of none" part of that saying isn't quite right. Yes, I do have options I'd recommend for specific systems, but this Bluetooth gamepad still manages to feel great with multiple generations of systems without pledging loyalty to just one console. That's largely thanks to the fact that it feels like a Genesis controller in the hands, with an authentic D-pad to boot while also wielding full-sized dual hall-effect thumbsticks for all your 3D gaming needs.

Visually, the Elves 2 Pro looks like a Sega Saturn pad, and the white version in particular nails its aesthetic objectives. Yet, by switching things up to a conventional four-button layout and including those aforementioned symmetrical sticks at the bottom, it manages to possess all the makings of a Dualshock alternative. It even has the same bumpers on top, so you won't be stuck for inputs.

The other main reason the Elves 2 Pro is my "best overall" pick actually doubles as a caveat, as it's linked to its Bluetooth abilities. To actually pair with a pad with all your old systems, you'll have to pick up additional dongles, as it's primarily designed to hook up to your Switch 2, PC, or phone. Having used this gamepad extensively with 8Bitdo Retro Receivers and Blueretro's adapters, though, I can confirm that it's able to become a one-size-fits-all option, and I wasn't able to sniff out any meaningful lag compared to 2.4GHz pads.

My pitch for using the Gulitkit Elves 2 Pro as a retro controller revolves around the idea of a retro receiver ecosystem. Yes, picking up all those extra adapters will cost you, but at the same time, it'll save you from investing in multiple separate gamepads for each console. That's exactly why I've awarded it my "best overall" label, as it's the one model that can appease the specific input needs of each platform.

Read more: Gulikit Elves 2 Pro review

Best for Sega Mega Drive/Genesis

8Bitdo knows a thing or two about making authentic, yet modernized retro controllers, and the M30 2.4GHz is a testament to that. Rather than trying to identically mimic the exact look and feel of Sega's OG Genesis/Mega Drive controller, this pad instead takes cues from the fan favorite Japanese Fighting Pad 6B while adding better ergonomics and solid 2.4GHz connectivity to make a triumphant alternative.

I can't count the number of hours I've spent spinning my way to the Death Egg in Sonic the Hedgehog 2. It's for that reason that swapping out my trusty original 6-button Sega pad on the Mega Drive (or Genesis, as you US players call it) for the 8Bitdo M30 makes for a perfect test of its abilities. It's a Pepsi challenge I was convinced I wouldn't fail, and yet, I wasn't able to pick out any latency issues, or grips with its authentic disc d-pad.

In fact, I'd go as far as to say that, compared to an unrefurbished original pad, the 8Bitdo M30 feels superior when playing Sega's 16-bit back catalogue. The six-button layout means your thumbs won't feel lost, and that d-pad boasts the exact same movement and grippy texture as a real Mega Drive pad. The weight is just about right, too, at 114 grams, and while that sounds like it'll be floaty light, it still provides enough heft while also being free from the molded cable of OG controllers.

Exceptional build quality and authentic feel aside, the other biggie is the fact that it comes with a 2.4GHz adapter. The inclusion of a wireless dongle gives it a natural advantage over my overall pick, the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro, despite both featuring a very similar d-pad and feel for Sega Games. Plus, if you are looking for extra frame accuracy, 2.4Ghz does introduce less latency compared to using 8Bitdo's Bluetooth Retro Receiver, even if the difference is arguably minimal.

The one thing that gets on my nerves with the M30 is the existence of different models. While some brands, like Retro-Bit, will happily give you both an original 2.4GHz dongle and USB adapter in the box, 8Bitdo sells two different versions alongside a separate Bluetooth pad. Simply put, if you want to use the M30 with a real Genesis, the Sega mini version, your modern console, and a PC wirelessly, you'll need to buy thrice, and that slightly sours what is otherwise a near-perfect controller for the 16-bit system and its games.

Read more: 8Bitdo M30 2.4Ghz review

Best controller for Sega Saturn

I'll confess that the Retro-Bit Sega Saturn Pro controller isn't the nicest gamepad I've tested. It's not quite as solid-feeling as the others I've tried, and I find its inclusion of Joy-Con-style thumbsticks questionable. Plus, it annoyed me straight out of the box since it's wearing the wrong logo on the front, and yet, it's still the best option for Sega's first 3D console thanks to its included 2.4GHz dongle and mode switching abilities.

For whatever reason, Retro-Bit decided to draw influence from two separate controller versions when making the officially licensed Sega Saturn Pro controller. It's using the same striking white shell and multi-colored buttons as the original Japanese 6-button pad, but borrows its shape from the larger model 1 pad included with the black system. It also has the full logo of that latter version rather than just the "Sega" logo that actually matches the color scheme, and that irritates the purist in me.

The decision to opt for the larger shell is undoubtedly linked to the inclusion of two smaller Hall-effect joysticks. These help it double as a fully functional modern pad for PC and Switch, but they pale in comparison to the full sticks of the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro (which happens to have a very similar Saturn vibe).

There is a solid reason to include analogue inputs, though, and that's because it allows the pad to function like an original OG Saturn 3D Control Pad. That's invaluable if you're looking for a way to play outings like Nights Into Dreams alongside the system's legacy of 2D fighting games, as it can easily switch between digital and analogue.

Yes, I know it sounds like I'm not really recommending the Sega Saturn Pro controller, but I actually am. It's just that the situation surrounding the pad is a little bit nuanced, as there are not many other options out there. It also still provides a serviceable 6-button setup and a nice d-pad, and that's enough to give it a seat at the table (for now).

Read more: Sega Saturn Pro controller review

Best controller for N64

For years, I've listened to players grumble about the Nintendo 64's cursed trident-shaped gamepad. 8Bitdo was clearly paying attention to those cries, as its N64 controller takes Ninty's unconventional prominent A and B buttons and places them on a conventionally shaped shell. The result? A pad that feels remarkably suited to the '90s console's design sensibilities while offering up contemporary comfort.

I really wasn't sure if I'd get on with the 8Bitdo N64 controller prior to getting my hands on one. I figured it mainly existed to make the Analogue 3D feel like a modernized version of Ninty's first 3D system, and while it does that, it also helps an original N64 feel decades newer. The important thing here, though, is it avoids disrupting the exact layout of a real N64 gamepad, and that's important to the exact early 3D camera systems used by the console's classics.

The more I think about the 8Bitdo N64 Controller, the more I feel like it's design choices are a no-brainer. Why didn't anyone add a single joystick, those big old A and B buttons accompanied by the C-pad, and that big silly start button sooner? Don't get me wrong, I still love using the original spacecraft monstrosity, and I even modded mine with a hall-effect joystick to help it compete. Yet, I do find myself reaching for the modern version more these days, as my hands appreciate the solid build quality and comfort when playing straight runs of favorites like Zelda: Majora's Mask.

The stellar build quality of this N64 gamepad, its beautifully accurate button layout, and ergonomic curves are all reason enough to grab this pad for your system. However, just like with the M30, 8Bitdo has somewhat fragmented connectivity across different models, meaning if you grab the Bluetooth version for wider Switch and PC compatibility, you'll need an adapter for the '90s system. Thankfully, dongles by the likes of BlueRetro work a treat, and 8Bitdo now has its own Retro Receiver if you're staying brand loyal.

I picked up 8Bitdo N64 controller prior to the 2.4Ghz version's existence, so if I were picking up one today, I'd grab that specifically for the console over the Bluetooth version. That said, I can recommend any version regardless, and both will still provide built-in rumble and integrated memory card support that'll save you thinking about additional accessories. My only, slightly biased instruction is that you should specifically grab the gray version since it matches the OG system perfectly.

Read more: 8Bitdo N64 controller review

Best controller for Sega Dreamcast

Making the Sega Dreamcast gamepad wireless is no mean feat, but the Retro Fighters StrkerDC provides a nifty solution. Rather than trying to somehow keep the VMU slot, the accessory maker has shifted it to the 2.4GHz receiver, meaning it doubles up as a viewable dock. The pad itself pairs wonderfully with the system too, although there's a better version if you're specifically into fighting games.

In terms of design language, the StrikerDC takes a similar approach to 8Bitdo's N64 controller. By that, I mean it keeps the single stick and exact button layout of Sega's pad, but morphs the overall shape into something more contemporary. There's something amusing about morphing the shell into something more like a modern-day Xbox pad since it's the Dreamcast controller that influenced that blueprint in the first place, but it does come together as a more comfortable package that makes sense.

In 3D games, the StrikerDC works a treat. While the triggers feel slightly hollow for my liking, and the bumpers have some actuation quirks if you press too far inwards, I could happily sit and revisit the greats like Sonic Adventure and Crazy Taxi using the pad. Despite my earlier comments, it's also serviceable in fighting games, but Retro Fighters has released a far more appropriate D6 controller with a disc-shaped d-pad, which may be preferable to the stiffer, harder to roll out moves in Street Fighter 2 with cross version on this model.

As for the dockable VMU, I really dig the idea, but I know it won't be ideal for every setup. My retro battlestation lives on a desk, meaning I can sit within view of the receiver to admire the unique memory card's 2-bit animations and occasional game functionality (namely the health indicator in Resident Evil: Code Veronica). If you sit at a normal distance from a larger screen, though, you're going to lose the functionality somewhat, even if it does still serve as a way to save your game.

There aren't really any third-party wireless Dreamcast controllers on the battlefield to challenge the StrikerDC. That said, I'm not awarding it the crown purely due to the lack of competition, as this is an excellent, comfortable pad for Sega's last system that reliably cuts the cord. Just keep in mind that its D6 sibling will feel superior in fighting games, and the system certainly boasts a lot of them.

Read more: Retro Fighters StrikerDC review

Best controller for PlayStation

There's no shortage of third-party PlayStation controllers out there, but the Retro Fighters Defender stands out thanks to its extremely wide compatibility. You'll be hard-pressed to find a pad that works wirelessly with the PS1, PS2, and PS3 out of the box, and while it does visually look more like a third-party PlayStation 3 pad from 2010, it's still the strongest option for your Sony setup.

The Defender (aptly named as a reference to PlayStation defending its position? Maybe? I'll make sense when we talk about the next entry), isn't too dissimilar to the StrikerDC. It's roughly using the same modern-day Xbox-inspired shell and the same bumpers and triggers. However, it feels like Retro Fighters has refined some elements with this model, with the latter triggers feeling less hollow than before and the actuation issues being eradicated from the R1 and L1 buttons.

Switching things up with Sony symmetrical stick placements sensibilities makes a difference to the overall feel, too. I'm pretty sure the Defender is using an identical d-pad to the StrikerDC, but placing it up top somehow helps it feel a little easier to rock, in turn enhancing its abilities in fighting games. I'd still prefer a disc, but it is nice to see incremental improvements with the PlayStation entry to this controller range.

This pad feels pretty great across all three PlayStation generations, and the vast number of games and genres tied to each console. I'd be surprised if you find an alternative as comprehensive as the Defender, and big kudos to Retro Fighters for including both a controller port dongle and USB adapter. The only thing really cramping this pad's style is the fact that it doesn't look that much like a classic DualShock, and Sony's stubborn licensed "sacred symbols" rules doesn't help.

That's not to say the Defender is fugly. The grey version specifically matches nicely with the original fat PlayStation, and there are a few colorways to choose from, including a transparent blue model that feels very '90s. Had this pad managed to look a bit more authentic, however, and managed to squeeze Six-Axis support for the PS3 side of things, we'd be looking at a perfect PlayStation pad, but near-perfection will have to do (at least until the Defender Pro lands this year).

Best controller for OG Xbox

You could say Retro Fighters is playing both sides of the old console war, as the Hunter does for the OG Xbox what the Defender does for its PS2 rival. Yet, it turns out that if you try to make a modern version of the S pad for Microsoft's first console, you simply end up with a modern-day wireless Series X/S controller with extra black and white buttons. Go Figure.

I promise I'm not being snarky when I draw comparisons between the Hunter and modern Xbox controllers. If anything, it's a compliment, as the objective here was to create a wireless gamepad for the OG Xbox that infuses old school touches with contemporary elements. In doing so, Retro Fighters has also made a controller that feels nicer than the rest of the range, even if it doesn't really feel like either the original 'S' model or the monstrously large Duke.

There's certainly room for debate over whether the Hunter should have embraced classic design elements rather than focus on contemporary comfort. In this instance, I reckon the latter makes more sense, as it's nice playing the first two Halo games with new-age triggers. Plus, I'm a big believer that you should still own original pads to retain the historic design languages of old hardware, even if you do want to primarily play using a newfangled, wireless remake.

I stand by my comments that this is the nicest feeling Retro Fighters controller in the range. That said, borrowing so many cues from the modern Xbox pad exposes it to some comparative criticism. It uses my favorite d-pad of the bunch, as the floating circular design works far better for fighting games, but it lacks the faux microswitch clickiness of the official pad, resulting in a slightly less satisfying sensation during use. The triggers on my Series S pad also feature pleasant dampening, whereas the Hunter makes do with a plastic-on-plastic clunk.

These are small gripes that don't really distract from the Hunter's status as the best OG Xbox controller. If anything, it's some smaller misses, like the lack of memory card support, that will upset purists looking for authentic functionality more. Even ditching the on-board slots doesn't keep this pad from greatness, though, and it has become a permanent staple of my big old Xbox ensemble.

Best controller for GameCube

I feel slightly silly dubbing an official Nintendo GameCube controller as the best GameCube controller. Yes, well done, Flip, water is wet. However, having tried plenty of third-party wireless alternatives and always craved the feel of the real deal, the Switch 2 remake lives up to my long-standing expectations, even if it does owe an open-source dongle for its place at the table.

Nintendo has been pretty nasty regarding firmware compatibility with the Switch 2. That extends to the gaming handheld's accessories, as there's currently no easy way to get controllers that use the new Bluetooth protocol working on PC. At least, that was the case before the developer behind the Blueretro adapters whipped up a solution, and the breakthrough means you can now use the gamepad with the original console.

Not everyone digs the GameCube controller's obnoxiously large green A button and weird-shaped counterparts. I happen to love the pad, so I'm somewhat biased, so the Switch 2 version's main goal with me was convincing me that it's just like my battleworn accessory from the 2000s. And, thankfully, it really does feel like a box-fresh original, with only some subtle differences with plastic textures standing out.

In terms of functionality, pairing it with a Blueretro adapter will perfectly pair the controller with your aging GameCube. That includes facilitating support for rumble and even the pressure-sensitive triggers, which really come in handy when playing Super Mario Sunshine or F-Zero GX. Effectively, using this pad will feel like you've simply cut the cord and magically tethered the gamepad to your cube, and that's all I ever wanted from a modern alternative to the Wavebird.

I would love it if either 8Bitdo, Retro Fighters, or any other retro accessory maker came out swinging with a rival that feels just as authentic. Whether that'll happen down the road remains to be seen, but given that this is a modern revamp of a Nintendo controller by Nintendo, it's presence on this list shouldn't be too surprising.

Best Game Boy controller

The idea of there being a controller that's "best for Game Boy" sounds a little silly. Surely, if you want controls that are great for Ninty's first portable, you'd use the OG pgadget or pick up one of the best retro handhelds that emulates its feel, right? Well, maybe, but it turns out GameSir's Pocket Taco isn't just a doohickey that'll turn your phone into a Pokémon machine; it's also a solid standalone controller.

The latter is all thanks to the way the Pocket Taco harnesses connectivity. Rather than doing what most other mobile controllers do and plugging straight to your smartphone via USB-C, this gamepad uses Bluetooth. That means it'll add physical buttons to your doomscrolling square while still functioning as a wireless pad for a bunch of other systems, including your PC, Switch, and even a docked Analogue Pocket.

Okay, sure, you can use a bounty of other pads to play Game Boy games on all those devices, including many on this list. But GameSir's contraption aims to feel specifically like the original DMG handheld in terms of button feel and d-pad, all while providing enough inputs to handle GBA games, too. It's simply going to feel more like a set of original Ninty handheld buttons than many other controllers you'll try, and that's what elevates this controller to greatness.

The Pocket Taco's whole vibe also makes it extremely travel-friendly. It's shaped exactly how you'd expect, given its tasty-sounding name, with your phone acting as a filling between a plastic sandwich. When it's not gripping onto your phone screen, it hinges to a lower-profile wedge that, when inserted into its included hard case, will easily slip into your backpack unnoticed.

My only real nitpicks with the Pocket Taco are tied to its free app, as it could use some work in terms of integrating emulators to provide a visual Game Boy feel. That's a separate issue to the controller itself, and if you're looking for something sleek with early handheld vibes and pretty solid battery life, GameSir may have you covered.

Read more: GameSir Pocket Taco review

Controller adapters for retro consoles

Old consoles naturally missed out on Bluetooth. Since quite a few of my best retro controller picks rely on the new-fangled wireless connectivity to hook up to systems, it's only right that I also include some of my go-to adapters and "retro receievers".

At the moment, these dongles are largely made by two accessory makers: 8Bitdo and Blueretro. I'm continually testing newcomers, but at the moment, these are the exact adapters I use to pair gamepads like the Gullikit Elves 2 Pro to retro consoles.

FAQ

Looking to play on the go? Swing by the best gaming handhelds for portable PCs, emulation gadgets, and more.

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Shop the collection

Shop the collection

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  1

  FiiO

  Snowsky/FiiO Echo Mini

  $59.99
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  2

  Casio

  Casio A158WA Series

  $29.71
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  3

  FiiO

  Fiio DM13 Multifunctional Portable Stereo CD Player and Ripper

  $184.99
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  4

  KODAK

  Kodak Ektar H35

  $49.99
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  5

  Blaze Entertainment

  Evercade Vs-R Solo

  $119.99

Tired of streaming apps, downloads, and notifications? The endless upgrade cycle, rising subscription costs, and choice fatigue? Welcome back to the world of physical media.

I know I'm not the only one getting tired of paying for services and only using a tiny percentage of what's actually available, or losing my music taste in a sea of AI DJs, playlists, and podcast recommendations. I've been slowly de-digitizing my life for a little while now, relying more on physical albums, DVD and Blu-Ray collections, and hard-copy games wherever I can.

It's not just more satisfying, it's about as much media ownership as we're going to get in this day and age. It doesn't even need to be physical - the humble MP3 player is back and it feels so much better than Spotify. I've rounded up the full roster of gadgets you can use to step away from a WiFi connection this Prime Day, ranging from the classic Casio to DVD and CD rippers.

For more gaming accessories, check out the best Prime Day gaming deals, or take a look at the best retro handhelds and best retro consoles on the market.

Look, I'm not saying you shouldn't grab the new Banjo-Kazooie handheld everyone is raving about. In fact, the new Rare edition of the Super Pocket is one of the flavors yet, and not just because it's packing an N64 classic. However, if you're not fussed about the red and blue getup, or the publisher's hits before the bear and bird were a thing, then there's an opportunity to save some Doubloons.

If you have already caught my Super Pocket Rare Edition hands-on and are already sold on playing Banjo on the retro handheld ASAP, I won't stop you. It's sitting pretty for $69.99 at Amazon for pre-order, and I can't guarantee it'll be in stock after its June 26 release date. If you're willing to play the waiting game, though, you could hold off for Prime Day gaming deals to drop and grab the often-discounted TECHNOS version for under $50.

Before you start shouting about how that version doesn't include Banjo, let me elaborate on my hair-brained scheme. Yes, you'll be buying a version that's loaded with 15 arcade classics like Double Dragon and River City Ransom instead, but every Super Pocket boasts the same Evercade cartridge slot. That means if you do grab the TECHNOS version for less, you'll then only have to wait until October to obtain the physical Banjo-Kazooie collection for the portable, which just so happens to also include Banjo-Tooie.

Effectively, if you pick up the Super Pocket Rare Edition AND a copy of the Banjo-Kazooie collection down the road, you'll be almost buying twice. That's not to say you shouldn't do that if, like me, you love the developer's other classics, like Solar Jetman: Hunt for the Golden Warpship for the NES, or the various ZX Spectrum oddities on the handheld. But, if you've got no love for that back-catalogue, you can optimize your purchasing plans.

Of course, I'm highlighting the TECHNOS version purely since it tends to drop during the sales, but there are other enticing versions. The Neo Geo Edition specifically is going to hook you up with some legendary arcade romps, like King of Fighters and Metal Slug X, and there's an Atari brick if you're itching for something of the vintage variety (Yars Revenge, wherever you go, yo).

Not everything has to be a money-saving exercise, especially when it comes to choosing the right gaming handheld. The Super Pocket is already exceptional for the price, so there's no real wrong way to pick one up. You might even decide you want to spend more on something that supports Blaze's cartirdges, and options like the $129.99 Evercade EXP-R will hook you up with a larger screen, a beefier 3,000mAh battery, and Wi-Fi for firmware updates.

Blaze is also cooking up the Evercade Nexus, a beefier handheld with dual analogue sticks and a 5.89-inch IPS screen that caters to later 3D games, like Banjo-Kazooie (it's $199.99 at Amazon). If you want to keep costs to a minimum, though, your attentions should be focussed on the Super Pocket, and while I'll be sharing discounts on the entire line-up when the sales kick off next week, I'd get ahead of the curve and keep eyes on that TECHNOS variant.

• Retro handhelds at Amazon
• Evercade consoles at Amazon

If you miss physical games, you should swing by our Everything Evercade guide to learn more about Blaze's cartirdge-based retro console ecosystem.

I've finally got the Super Pocket Rare Edition in my mitts, and if I showed seven-year-old me this thing, their brain would melt into a puddle. We're talking about a retro handheld that costs less than new console games, is smaller than my original Game Boy Color, and runs Banjo-Kazooie, an N64 game that was cutting edge when the latter portable reigned supreme.

And yet, even if the latest Super Pocket didn't come with one of the best N64 games of all time, I'd still be all over the retro handheld. After all, it's still the same 5/5 budget portable that dazzled me with its compact abilities back in 2023. However, the Rare Edition is packing some of the legendary publisher's lesser talked about hits from across multiple generations, and I'd be happy to spend $69.99 again since the collection includes one of my favorite NES games.

No, I'm not talking about Battletoads, even if that is undoubtedly an NES gem. Rather, it's the addition of Solar Jetman: Hunt for the Golden Warpship that would draw me to this specific, albeit a little garish, red, blue, and yellow version of the Super Pocket. If you're already aware of this quirky multidirectional shooter sequel to the ZX Spectrum classic Lunar Jetman and have no interest, you'll want to keep an eye on Prime Day gaming deals for other handheld flavors, but the rest of you should read on.

Don't worry, I'll get to playing Banjo on this new Super Pocket. But first, let's chat about why Solar Jetman is the perfect era of game for the vertical handheld specifically. Rare's space caper sits within a wonderful 8-bit genre that merges simple shooter mechanics with exploration, meaning it's not quite a quick "once-and-done" arcade romp, but it also won't ask you to pull off anything too strenuous using just a disc d-pad, four face buttons, and some cramped shoulder buttons at the rear.

There's certainly a forgotten art to the way Solar Jetman feels vast without doing too much. The primary loop has you "flying" around in an egg ship using the same chaotic momentum physics as Asteroids. That means one of the biggest dangers in this game is, well, you and your ability to use thrusters in the right direction to navigate narrow, spike-laden caverns in a bid to find pieces of the titular Golden Warship.

The high-contrast visuals of Solar Jetman, even on the Super Pocket's modest 320 x 240, 2.8-inch IPS display, will suck you into what feels like a far grander odyssey than it should. Plunging into the depths in an egg that will absolutely crack, exposing the 8-bit space dude within, will keep you more than entertained when travelling or even just sitting somewhere that your high-tech gaming PC or setup can find you, especially if you have the patience to survive the outing's 12 danger-infected planets.

Of course, you'll have better luck assembling the Golden Warship on the Super Pocket compared to a real NES, as the handheld takes full advantage of save states. That in itself means you can casually chip through the admittedly punishing gameplay without having to stumble through the same narrow pathways over and over, and while the Nintendo Switch Online version will afford you the same luxury, playing on an offline portable with Game Boy vibes is naturally more special.

But what about Banjo?

Alright, I get it: you want to know if you can actually play Banjo-Kazooie on a handheld that often costs under $60. The answer is a resounding yes, and if you've ever tried to emulate N64 games on a cheap portable emulator, you'll know that's a mean feat. Upon booting up the bear and bird's first adventure, I was immediately impressed with the perceivable frame rates. It's supposedly targeting 60fps, and from what I've experienced so far, that holds true.

I've been asking myself for a while whether we should try and play more complex early 3D outings on something like the Super Pocket. Doing so has been an option for a while since both Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver and Tomb Raider exist as carts, but I reckon both of those are better suited to the full-fat Evercade EXP-R or, more appropriately, the upcoming Evercade Nexus.

If any flavor of early 3D game is going to work well on a vertical handheld with limited controls, however, it is Banjo-Kazooie. The collectathon's platforming isn't quite as nightmarish as something like Super Mario 64, nor will you find yourself looking for buttons exclusive to the OG N64 controller. What I do think the platformer could benefit from, however, is expanded options for mapping inputs to your specific preference, as while I found my stride by switching things back to "retro" rather than "replay" in the menu, it'd be nice to dial things in fully.

For context, using the retro control scheme maps Flap Flip to R2 rather than L2, which felt a bit more intuitive as someone who's played the original a lot. It also swaps around the face buttons for rolling and camera tracking, but I can't help but feel there's perhaps a customizable balance to be struck between the two modes.

When it comes to settings, the Super Pocket Banjo-Kazooie port is slightly odd, as it drops compatibility with that middle menu button. That means you won't have access to save states, or even the option to enable scanlines, and I would have enabled the latter to give the emulated N64 graphics a bit of needed pixel separation. Alas, neither omission is an entire deal breaker, and I get why those additional OS options are disabled, considering the tricks the new port is likely pulling off to run on the portable's low specs.

Ultimately, being able to play Banjo-Kazooie with no performance quirks or visual bugs on something that'll easily fit in your pocket is well worth the asking price. Plus, don't forget you're getting 14 other classics thrown in too, including Conker's Pocket Tales, a wholesome prequel to Bad Fur Day that was stuck on the Game Boy Color for 27 years, and some really early Rare releases for the ZX Spectrum.

Super Pocket Rare Edition games

• Atic Atac
• Banjo-Kazooie
• Battletoads
• Battletoads in Battlemaniacs
• Cobra Triangle
• Conker's Pocket Tales
• Gunfright
• Jetpac
• Knight Lore
• Lunar Jetman
• R.C Pro-Am II
• Slalom
• Snake Rattle 'n' Roll
• Solar Jetman: The hunt for the Golden Warship

The one question I'd ask yourself when considering the Rare Super Pocket is whether you care about any of the other games besides Banjo-Kazooie. One of the reasons I've expansively talked about Solar Jetman here is that it's one of the only games on the list exclusive to the handheld, as the rest are available on the Rare Collection 1. We're also getting a Banjo-Kazooie double pack in October in line with the Nexus, so some of you might want to grab another portable flavor for potentially less during the sales this year.

TLDR - The Super Pocket Rare Edition is fantastic, even if it does look more like it's cosplaying as Mario.

• Evercade consoles at Amazon
• Retro handhelds at Amazon

Looking for more modern cartirdge goodness? Swing by our Everything Evercade guide for the lowdown on Blaze's latest hardware and games.

Prime Day kicks off next week, and I'd normally advise picking up retro console bits and bobs during the sale. However, I figured I'd check in with a slightly hidden deal on what is my favorite retro controller overall, the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro, as there's a coupon camping out on one of its various Amazon listings.

The specific Gulitkit Elves 2 Pro listings in question brings the Sega Saturn-inspired gamepad down to $37.99 from $39.99. All you need to do is click the coupon price check box on the page, and voila! You've just bagged yourself a solid Bluetooth controller that you can pair with various classic systems via an adapter.

This isn't a massive discount on the Elves 2 Pro by any means, but it is a handy one. If you use price trackers, they aren't going to pick up on these kinds of coupon discounts, so keeping this almost hidden saving in mind before considering Prime Day offers next week will better help you assess any subscriber savings.

I've tested dozens of retro controllers for every classic console out there, and the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro remains my overall favorite. That's perhaps because I'm a sucker for a Sega-style disc d-pad, or maybe it's the white versions Saturn-inspired get-up. One thing I can say for certain is that its excellent buttons, hall-effect joysticks, and wide Bluetooth compatibility mean it pairs fantastically with everything from the SNES and Genesis/Mega Drive to later systems like the PS2, but you will need additional dongles.

Of course, if you've got a modern emulation-based setup with a gaming handheld perched on a Steam Deck dock, or even just a gaming PC at its core, you'll be able to hook straight up via Bluetooth. If you're keeping things authentic with a real retro console, though, you'll want to check out the various wireless adapters available.

I've tested most of the dongles out there by the likes of 8Bitdo and Blueretro with the Gulitkit Elves 2 Pro, and the combination is pretty effective. The gamepad synced remarkably quickly to my Sega Mega Drive via a Retro Receiver, and while using Bluetooth naturally introduces more latency compared to something like the 8Bitdo M30 2.4Ghz, I honestly couldn't really detect any lag during normal play.

I've even spent a chunk of time playing Saturn, N64, PS1, and PS2 games using the Elves 2 Pro, and it's remarkably versatile for something that looks like a 16-bit pad. That's largely thanks to its neatly placed full-sized thumbsticks, which provide controls that are well-suited to 3D outings while not hampering the inherent 2D abilities of its fantastic-feeling d-pad.

The only real caveat that comes to mind compared to using a more contemporary pad is the triggers, as they're strictly digital. That does mean you'll still have to reach for a GameCube pad if you want to, say, run and squirt in Super Mario Sunshine, and it's not ideal for shooters with modern gamepad sensitivities. However, it's still serviceable in those scenarios, and if the Elves 2 Pro was the only gamepad to hand, you'd still be able to easily play years' worth of games on old systems without a hitch.

Ergonomically, the Elves 2 Pro feels very '90s too, which could be a good or bad thing depending on your preferences. I happen to enjoy the flatter, 16-bit back of retro controllers like this, but if you're used to extended grips on new Xbox or DualSense designs, I can see why your hands might be more prone to cramping after longer sessions. That said, keeping things low profile helps this pad travel remarkably well, meaning it also makes for one hell of a controller for your backpack.

This won't be the last time I harp on about the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro, but doing so before Prime Day kicks off is important. Ideally, I'd like to see it drop under $30, and if that happens, I'll be back here filling you in on the record lows. If those discounts fail to kick in, however, and you don't want use a "wait and see" approach, you can at least grab a few bucks off right now, and that could be invaluable if you're picking up some new tech before diving into classic capers over the summer season, be it while travelling or hidden away in your retro gaming cave.

• Retro controllers at Amazon
• Retro consoles at Amazon

Looking for more ways to play the classics? Swing by the best retro handhelds for emulation devices that pack a portable punch.

Ayaneo just revealed that a new Pocket Micro is inbound, and the retro handheld sequel is supposedly "52% larger than the previous generation", features enhanced ergonomics, better battery life, and a punchier Qualcomm chipset. That's a pretty big list of promises, but it's clear that the portable maker is about to put out all the stops for retro enthusiasts.

A series of slightly chaotic teasers for the Ayaneo Pocket Micro 2 on X outlines what the best retro handheld contender hopes to achieve without diving into any specific specs. We also have no idea what the portable looks like yet, but it sounds like it might not look like a fancy Game Boy Micro.

Repeated references to the Ayaneo Pocket Micro 2 boasting "more comfortable controls" and "enhanced ergonomics" suggest that it won't just be a solid metal rectangle this time around. Whether it'll borrow any visual queues from Nintendo's legacy of handhelds remains to be seen, but the line "REMAKE the classic, fully evolved ", complete with its capitalisation, makes me wonder if we're getting something OG GBA shaped with modern tweaks.

Seeing as the GBA just turned 25 in the US, making a modern gaming handheld that looks like a high-tech remake makes sense. The only issue is that there are plenty of cheaper Game Boy Advance clones out there, like the RG34XX and its Anbernic RG35XXSP sibling that looks almost identical to Ninty's 2000s clamshell.

I should stress that if you're in the market for a cheap and cheerful handheld emulator, Ayaneo's portable might not be up your street. The launch MSRPs weren't horrendous by any means, but the base models started at $219. The idea is that, for your money, you'll get the same genre of device infused with the kind of specs you get out of a larger Android handheld, like 8GB LPDDR4X RAM, 256GB storage, and a beefier SoC.

We'll have to wait a bit longer to find out just how bougie the Pocket Micro 2 actually is in terms of specs, but Ayaneo has already confirmed it'll wield a Qualcomm Snapdragon chip, which could mean everything up to the PS2 and beyond is on the table if it's a G3 Gen 3. It'll also pack a 3,950mAh battery into its larger shell, which could help last beyond the 6-hour range of its predecessor.

I've spent quite a bit of time with the OG Ayaneo Pocket Micro, and it's one of the nicest Android retro handhelds I've tested to date. The original does have a set of parallel thumbsticks that are slightly unwieldy given its boxy ergonomics and size, but there is a "Classic" version that ditches the sticks should you find their inclusion offensive.

Both versions still represent an upper class of retro handhelds in the modern age, so I'm hoping the Pocket Micro 2 will carry that baton. My only fear right now is that, given the state of gaming hardware prices in general right now, thanks to the ravenous hunger of AI datacentres for components, it might land at a higher price than previous portables, rather than serving as a slightly more expensive, yet superior way to play your old games.

• Retro handhelds at Amazon
• Retro consoles at Amazon

Looking for more ways to play the classics? Swing by the best retro consoles for remakes, emulation systems, and more.

Following the success of its wonderful Commodore 64 Ultimate microcomputer remake, you'd perhaps expect the revived tech giant to make a fancy new FPGA Amiga. However, two weeks ago, CEO Christian Simpson (AKA YouTuber Peri Fractic) declared that the company can't "survive solely on nostalgia," which has somehow led today to the announcement of a flip phone that reeks of the 2000s.

That's right, the next big Commodore International release is the Callback 8020. As I've already spoiled, it's a flip phone. It also uses physical numerical keys instead of a touchscreen. You know, like a flip phone? I know for a fact I'll have already lost my younger readers who arrived on Earth just in time for the iPhone, but stick with me, as this phone isn't just for old-school calls and texts.

Described by Simpson as “the not dumb dumbphone”, the Callback 8020 will still provide you access to apps like WhatsApp, Spotify, and Google Maps. In that sense, it isn't like an off-grid burner, but rather than using Android, it'll come armed with Sailfish OS, an alternative Linux-based platform with 99% compatibility founded by employees formerly at Nokia.

Two things the Commodore Callback 8020 is ready to outright reject, though, are both social media and browser-based Internet surfing. Those apps will be blocked "using patent-pending technology, eliminating temptation and designed with distraction-free schools in mind." That latter pitch feels like it deliberately lines up with the UK Government's announcement to ban social media for under-16s, but at the same time, it makes a tech statement on the blights of doomscrolling and having our data harvested by various parties while doing so.

Commenting on the announcement, Christian Simpson admits, "I was addicted to my smartphone. Switching to a dumbphone three years ago changed my life. I'm more present. I enjoy looking at the world around me. I don’t reach for my phone every few minutes. And my two-year-old daughter doesn’t see me staring at something she doesn’t understand for half of the day."

I can certainly relate to being on my phone "too much", but disconnecting completely is a no-no when you're, say, an editor at a prominent games website like me or a YouTuber-cum-CEO of like Mr Fractic.

"The minimal phones I tried were too minimal," says Simpson, "and so at Commodore we set out to create 'the not dumb dumbphone'”. The Commodore Callback is the phone I wished had existed when I started my journey, and the one we now want to put in the hands of everyone who's ready to escape the doomscrolling and distractions, with a speed bump for the mind."

It's easy to focus on what the opposite of a gaming phone lacks. However, the Commodore Callback 8020 boasts an entire charcuterie board of solid offline perks, including a 48MP Sony camera, an audiophile-grade DAC that'll hook you up with lossless audio, and some earbuds in the box. You're also getting a 2000s-era-appropriate VFD-style screen on the front of the clamshell that'll display the time, and my favorite touch? The 1,550mAh battery is removable. Boom.

While there isn't much tying the Callback 8020 to Commodore's hardware roots, it does come in both C64 beige, white, silver, and transparent flavors. The latter even has the same twinkly vibes as the Ultimate Starlight Edition thanks to five dome LEDs. There's also a 24-karat gold "Founder's Edition" if that's your jam, although I almost feel like making this gizmo ultra lavish spoils its lo-fi lives.

The part that will potentially crash your dreams of the AI-powered, doomscroller haunting your pocket is the Callback 8020's price. It'll be available to pre-order from June 30 for $499, which feels steep for a device with a MediaTek Helio G81 entry-level chipset often used in retro handhelds. At the same time, you're talking about a boutique device not made by monoliths like Samsung, Google, or Apple that's built nothing like a smartphone, so it's perhaps a small investment for what is an escape from the chaotic ecosystem that's been built around us.

• Retro handhelds at Amazon
• Retro consoles at Amazon

Looking to revisit classic systems? Swing by the best retro consoles for remakes and emulation devices that will run your old games.

The latest variants of the Analogue Pocket aren't getting along with Everdrive Game Boy flash carts. At least, that's according to the retro handheld gadget's creator, Krikzz, who suggests a new problem running GBA ROMs on the FPGA portable is a hardware issue, but I'm seeing conflicting explanations for why some players can't run backups using the new handheld batch.

At the centre of the Analogue Pocket and Everdrive fiasco is user elfricko. In a post to the Everdrive forum, the player says their shiny new FPGA portable is throwing a "04 File not found" error when using a GBA Mini cart ($125 at Amazon, FYI). After some initial digging, the issue was quickly narrowed down to something replacing the letter "r" with a "v", with the example cited being "romcfg to vomcfg."

The issue sounds like the sort of innocent quirk that'd usually be addressed with a firmware update. However, an additional Reddit threat titled "Possible defective RAM on newest AP batch" points a far more serious finger at the Analogue Pocket itself. elfricko says they know of at least three other people facing the issue, and one user has already reached out to Analogue for support.

Possible defective RAM on newest AP batch; issues with ED GBA Mini from r/AnaloguePocket

In response to the Everdrive issue, Analogue allegedly advised the Pocket owner to "contact the manufacturer for troubleshooting and information." It seemingly also stated that it "does not provide customer support for 3rd party devices", which isn't surprising given the company has zero control over compatible hardware by other entities.

The "good news" is that inserting the Everdrive into a new Analogue Pocket won't destroy your cart or its ROM library. To get it back up and running again, all you apparently have to do is switch back the changed letters in the file system, but it still won't work on the FPGA handheld. Users in the forums are currently trying to suss out whether the handheld or the accessory is to blame, but elfricko seems to believe that it's linked to RAM timings, citing "15 years of experience in computer science."

Worst-case scenario here is that there's a serious fault in the new Pocket RAM module's logic gates that could affect more than just Everdrive carts. Or it could simply be that the timing of the handheld and the flash cart now differs slightly. Either way, not everyone believes the issue lies solely on Analogue's shoulders, as retro enthusiast Pixel Cherry Ninja says that conflicting sources point towards component changes in the GB Mini itself.

I sadly don't own an Everdrive GB Mini, or I'd already be testing it with my slightly older Analogue Pocket model. What I will say, though, is that we don't have enough information yet to know what the exact fault is and which end of the hardware is to blame. I suspect it won't be long until enthusiasts root out a cause, and while Analogue says it doesn't provide support for third-party accessories, I'm pretty sure they'll have someone on the case, figuring out the FPGA compatibility issue internally.

Unless you're up for joining the troubleshooting front lines, I'd perhaps hold off on buying an Analogue Pocket for use with an Everdrive. It's an incredible handheld and the best FPGA device for running Game Boy carts and a bunch of other retro console ROMs out there, so I don't say that lightly. I'd be surprised if we have to wait long for an official answer, though, and I'm hoping the whole situation can be remedied with a good old firmware update.

• Retro handhelds at Amazon
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Using Valve's powerhouse for emulating old handhelds? Swing by the best Steam Deck accessories and best Steam Deck docks to soup up your setup.

Yes, I know it feels like the GBA arrived just yesterday for some of you, but Nintendo's legendary retro handheld is celebrating its 25th anniversary in the US. The way we play our silly little video games on the go has changed dramatically since 2001, and yet, plenty of you are still looking for ways to dive into the portable's library of 32-bit classic capers.

Luckily, there's no shortage of ways to play the best Game Boy Advance games in 2026, and it's safe to say I know a thing or two about accessing the handheld's back catalogue. Not so long ago, the only reliable way to play Ninty's 2000s hits was to acquire an actual GBA or DS by taking advantage of its backwards compatibility. These days, though, the number of ways to revisit some of the system's revolutionary pocket adventures is frankly overwhelming, and there's something to suit virtually all budgets.

As the GBA turns 25, my focus is on helping all of you handheld fans find the right way to play. For some of you, using upcoming Prime Day gaming deals to grab a cheap and cheerful emulation device will do the trick, whereas some may want to dive into a portable rabbit hole and embrace authentic FPGA hardware remakes and clever mods that revamp the OG hardware. I've got you covered regardless, as I've been exploring new ways to play the Game Boy Advance for decades.

Budget GBA handhelds

I'm not exaggerating when I say there are a hundred handhelds out there that can run GBA games. That's thanks to the efforts of emulation devs who've completely sussed out the ins and outs of the OG Game Boy Advance over decades, and the fact that replicating the portable's hardware takes very little processing power.

That said, when it comes to picking out a budget GBA-style portable, not all options are equal. You'll come across plenty of unbranded, cheap consoles at marketplaces that can technically run your backed-up cartridges, but will do so with stuttering, frame drops, and audio inaccuracies. The good news is that those caveats aren't exclusively tied to price, and I've tested plenty of portables that provide a solid experience while looking and feeling the part.

The very first brand you should consider when looking for GBA consoles is Anbernic. It's been in the handheld game since the late 2010s, and while some of its early portables were designed with light 8-bit gaming in mind, its arsenal of modern options, like the RG34XX and GBA SP-inspired RG35XXSP clamshell, will easily run the handheld's classics at full speed. Naturally, the portable console maker has also nailed mimicking Nintendo's original designs, so you're getting something that almost looks and feels like the real McCoy.

Anbernic even has an homage to the Game Boy Micro, and the RG28XX happens to be one of my favorite budget handhelds. It's not a 1:1 copy of the Game Boy Micro, as it instead sprinkles in some visual references to the DMG Game Boy onto an incredibly small horizontal shell. Typically speaking, you'll find it for under $40 during sales like Prime Day, and that's a steal considering it can emulate everything up to the PS1.

Naturally, Anbernic isn't the only brand worth considering during your hunt for a budget GBA handheld. Miyoo also contributes to the affordable battlefield with contenders like the Mini Plus, providing a classic vertical Game Boy layout, and the Flip V2 (around $80 at Amazon), paying tribute to the GBA SP. Powkiddy also has a portable with the same latter objective for $60, so you shouldn't have any issues grabbing something for under $100.

Mod(ernize) your real GBA

You don't have to be a purist to want a real, Bona fide Game Boy Advance. I'm a big advocate for preserving hardware, and I'll encourage anyone to use OG tech regardless of whether there are better ways to play. It's sometimes tricky to get people on side, though, as the first GBA hasn't even got a backlit screen, and even most SP models opted for a subpart front-lit display at the time (with the exception of the now rare backlit AGS 101 model.)

The good news is that you can remedy Nintendo's original GBA hardware with some clever mods. I know many of you won't be comfortable tinkering, especially in instances where a bit of soldering is involved, but it is possible to add shiny new IPS screens to the old handheld that completely transform its visuals. The version I've used goes for around $25 at Aliexpress, but there are also options that come with shells that'll save you from trimming any plastic or trying to precariously sandwich things together.

If you're comfortable modding a real GBA, you can actually add all the same features as a modern emulation-based handheld. Not only can you replace the need for AA cells with a USB-C rechargeable battery (around $20 at Aliexpress), but you can even add HDMI for some big-screen play. If all of that sounds like too much, you could even just freshen up the portable's abilities with a flash cart (typically under $20), which will at least save you from bringing multiple games with you on the go.

Premium GBA goodness

Technically, the sky is the limit in terms of premium ways to play GBA games. That's simple due to the fact that you could buy one of the best gaming handhelds that can handle Cyberpunk 2077 and use it to play Mario Kart: Super Circuit. I'm not going to stop you from doing that, and I'd actually encourage it if you've already got a punchy portable to hand, but there are specific devices out there that are designed with the Game Boy Advance in mind if you have cash to splash and an accuracy itch to scratch.

The main decision you'll have to make is whether you want something that primarily functions like a GBA on a hardware level using an FPGA, or a device that blends high-spec software emulation with ultra-premium materials. If you've got the former on your mind, you'll want to focus on getting hold of an Analogue Pocket, as it's a portable that will run all your actual GBA cartridges with 100% accuracy while boasting a vibrant 3.5-inch LCD display, a beefy 4300mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery, lush controls, and the ability to run plenty of other handheld games using adapters or custom FPGA cores.

I have no qualms with saying the Analogue Pocket is the ultimate Game Boy, and it could honestly replace most of my consoles and handhelds. At the same time, it costs a pretty penny, as the basic black and white versions are available for $239.99. That's before you factor in adapters for those aforementioned other handhelds like the Game Gear and Atari Lynx, or the HDMI dock that's been continually out of stock for a while now. Still, it's important to look at what you're actually getting for your money, and truth be told, investing in a Pocket will save you from thinking about ways to play GBA games ever again.

If you'd rather still have access to all the perks of software emulation, including access to more than just GBA games, there are specific options beyond just using your Steam Deck OLED or ROG Xbox Ally X (even if those are valid options). One of the first devices I'd consider is the Anbernic RG Cube, as while its square screen is perhaps better suited to Game Boy and GB Color romps, its horizontal design means it feel embraces the spirit of the OG console.

If you'd prefer something that feels a bit more like a successor to the GBA, I'd step things up to the Ayaneo Pocket Micro. As the name suggests, it's a tribute to the Game Boy Micro that uses the same elongated horizontal layout while scaling the screen up to 3.5 inches, adding active cooling to help its Helio G99 SoC pack more of a punch when emulating more demanding consoles, and other modern perks like hall-effect thumbsticks.

The Pocket Micro also boasts a CNC aluminium frame, something that helps the handheld feel more premium than most options out there. That is perhaps to be expected since the Android device comes in at $249.99 for the version with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage, which places it as an emulation alternative to the FPGA Analogue Pocket. Everything comes down to wanting to run real carts with 100% accuracy, or preferring the flexibility provided by Android-based gaming handhelds that can do far more than run Metroid Fusion or your old Pokémon games.

By this stage, you should have an idea of what you want from a modern GBA. Whether that means searching for the real thing at eBay, picking up an affordable clone, or splashing out on a high-end handheld is your call. The end result should be spending the Game Boy Advance's 25th birthday playing its greatest outings, which could make for a refreshing break from the horrors of modern hardware prices and AI nonsense.

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Microsoft is clearly trying to tug on my translucent tech-loving heartstrings with the Xbox Wireless Controller X25, and it's working. Sure, the star of the show is the 25th anniversary Series X and its green getup that pays homage to the OG transparent console, but most of you will probably just scramble for the gamepad. Rather than doing that, though, I'd urge you to check out an existing alternative that offers better features and compatibility with the company's oldest and newest systems.

I am, of course, talking about the Retro Fighters Hunter, a 2.4GHz wireless controller that works with the OG Xbox, PC, Switch, and the Series S/X. That wide compatibility already gives it an edge over the upcoming X25 gamepad, but you're also getting perks like hall-effect joysticks and a built-in lithium-ion battery for $59.99. That's potentially less than you'll pay for Microsoft's special edition version, and with Prime Day gaming deals on the horizon, there's even more wiggle room.

Best described as a blend between Microsoft's contemporary controller design and the OG Xbox "S" gamepad, the Retro Fighters Hunter certainly looks the part. I'd go as far as to say that, at least based on early promotional photos, the third-party pad looks more like the accessory for the 2000s retro console than the X25. I'll naturally need to sit both side by side to see if that Master Chief green hue is actually different, as the X25 looks like it's Mountain Dew flavoured, but other elements give the Hunter a visual advantage.

Notably, the Hunter boasts the same classic black and while buttons featured that debuted with the massive OG Xbox "Duke" controller. The side toggles were retained in the trimmed-down "S" version that Retro Fighters is specifically emulating, and they pretty much performed the same role as modern-day shoulder buttons. With the Retro Fighters pad, you're getting the option to use both, which is handy when using the 2000s console, but it also just helps the accessory nail the original aesthetic. Rather than going the extra mile and doing the same, the X25 instead adds black and white bumpers, which don't quite hit the same.

I'm fully aware that not everyone shares my fondness for janky old retro controllers. Simply put, many of you won't be fussed about Microsoft not including more original elements in its X25 controller if it means retaining that familiar sense of ergonomic comfort. Having tested both the Hunter and the official Series X controller side by side, though, I can confirm they almost feel identical.

I say almost, as there are subtle differences in feel with the d-pad and triggers. The Hunter doesn't include the same pleasing noise-reducing foam that minimises the clacky plastic sounds when rapidly firing in shooters, but that does help it feel more like the springy OG pad. As for the d-pad, it's serviceable, but sticks with traditional membranes rather than the metal domes that debuted with Series X.

Personally, I'd say the Hunter makes up for those small differences by being compatible with more systems and offering up stick drift-resistive tech. I don't know about you, but it feels like investing in a gamepad that will work with both Halo: Combat Evolved on a real OG Xbox and the new Halo: Campaign Evolved remake is more fitting for the platform's 25th anniversary.

Of course, even if you do settle on grabbing the official X25 gamepad, I suspect it could be tricky to get hold of. Therefore, I'd absolutely keep the Retro Fighters Hunter in your back pocket as a green translucent tribute alternative, one that may inspire you to set back up Microsoft's first ever console once its big birthday hits.

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Getting retro console and PC games running on virtually everything is something of a sport. Normally, weird ports of Doom to oddball devices take centre stage, and by comparison, running the original Half-Life on a late 2000s Nokia feels relatively tame. However, having just assembled a sizable Windows 98 rig to play that specific era of shooters, I'm pretty shook that it works on a precursor to the iPhone.

If you've been specifically dreaming of playing Half-Life 1 on a Nokia N95, you've got developer Dante D. Leoncini to thank. In a clip shared to X, you can bear witness to the shooter running natively at 30fps on the "smartphone", complete with mouse and keyboard support. Yes, caveats include playing at 240 x 320 pixels on a very blue 2.6-inch TFT display, but that's still a mean feat, seeing as the phone boasts a 332 MHz ARM chip and just 64MB RAM.

The secret sauce here is Xash3D FWGS, an open source engine designed to run Half-Life on things that, well, aren't a gaming PC. Leoncini has a to-do list of improvements going on their blog, which includes adding LAN and online multiplayer support as well as smoothing out bugs and crashes. The developer also confesses that they haven't played through the entire campaign yet on the 2000s Symbian-based phone, but says it runs reasonably well aside from some performance quirks and RAM-related crashes on specific maps.

Naturally, seeing one of the best PC games of all time running on an old Nokia is pretty rad. Despite holding on to plenty of old phones from 20 years ago, I sadly don't have an N95, but I do have its younger sibling, the Nokia N8, from 2010. It uses Symbian^3, so I won't be able to use the exact approach above, but the developer says you can compile the code for the OS (that's my weekend plans sorted).

Admittedly, there are probably more mind-boggling ports of PC games running on the wrong devices out there. As far as '90s shooters go, Half-Life runs pretty smoothly on even my Voodoo Banshee APG card, albeit using OpenGL and lower settings. What running Valve's FPS does highlight, though, is that we could get official ports of Gordon Freeman's first crowbar-swinging romp on pretty low-spec ARM handhelds, like the wonderful Super Pocket or its beefier Evercade siblings.

Yes, trying to play Half-Life with just a d-pad would be pretty clunky, but Blaze is set to release its Evercade Nexus retro handheld this October. The portable aims to properly dip its toes into the realm of early 3D gaming with dual analogue sticks and enhanced specs, and while PS1 and Sega Saturn games will likely dominate its library, there's a case to be made for a new Orange Box collection with Valve's debut game and maybe even its sequel and a bit of Portal for good measure.

Okay, I'm getting ahead of myself, and Valve would probably rather keep its first-party games as a reason to use its storefront or buy a Steam Deck OLED now that it costs over $700. My point is that if developers can get '90s PC games working on janky old 2000s cellphones, then publishers should look to get their classics on more devices that will fit in your pocket.

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I like to think there's a gaming monitor for everyone, but I can't help feel like retro console gamers get the short end of the stick. That's perhaps partly why more players than ever are hunting for old CRT TVs, as, despite being out of production for over 20 years, old square screens still feel like a better fit than even cutting-edge OLED displays.

I should note that I'm a CRT TV enthusiast, and my collection means I'll never escape the dork allegations. While I'm deeply in love with the look of old tube display phosphors paired with 4:3 aspect ratios, I do completely get why panel makers inevitably embraced the dawn of widescreen entertainment. The last thing anyone wants is to play letterboxed 16:9 games on a square screen, but that idea absolutely applies in reverse.

Simply put, now is the time for monitor makers to start exploring narrower aspect ratios. Ideally, we'd all just keep using CRT TVs until the sun gobbles up the Earth, but as someone who repairs old screens in their spare time, I've accepted they won't be around forever. The saving grace is that, thanks to OLED tech and advancing retro console remakes and upscalers, it's getting easier to replicate the vivid brightness of cathode ray tubes.

Where are all the square screens?

By and large, most modern gaming monitors out there stick with a conventional 16:9 aspect ratio. That makes sense given that widescreen has been around since the glory days of the PS2 and OG Xbox, and even retro-inspired indie games usually use the same play space.

Yes, I've made peace with the fact that 4:3 monitors aren't mainstream. What I am perplexed by, though, is the fact that the industry is neglecting the admittedly niche need for square screens while consistently putting out ultrawide monitors. 21:9 and even 32:9 panoramic displays are heralded for their productivity benefits, sure, but I'd argue their use cases are even nicher since only a select few PC games support ultrawide resolutions.

Of course, the whole situation is intrinsically linked to market saturation. While LG regularly slaps its UltraGear gaming branding on ultrawide displays, the panel tech exists to primarily satiate productivity. Playing your Steam games is a secondary pitch, and since monitor formats are dictated by the panels produced by manufacturers like BOE, LG Display, and Samsung, simply deciding to make a square screen isn't straightforward.

That begs the question: Are there any panels out there with a narrower aspect ratio than 16:9? Technically, the answer is yes, as Microsoft's all-in-one Surface Studio 2+ PC uses a 28-inch 3:2 display. Sadly, despite being the closest thing to a modern 4:3 monitor out there right now, the system's "PixelSense" display is designed and engineered by the tech giant, meaning it's strictly proprietary.

Naturally, Microsoft isn't the one actually producing the 3:2 display, and while it doesn't directly disclose its specific supplier, previous panels have been manufactured by the likes of Samsung. In other words, factories are fabricating narrower aspect ratio screens, and retro tech YouTuber MattKC actually managed to find a third-party monitor using a pretty similar panel.

In the video, Matt actually shares how they first attempted to make their own 3:2 monitor using an actual Microsoft Surface screen and a driver board from Aliexpress. The creator says they inevitably gave up on the project after experiencing multiple faults with parts. They also caught me off guard by mentioning another screen for programming by BenQ that has flown completely over my head, but they understandably conclude that the 28-inch IPS panel's specs are subpar compared to most other panels out there for around $800.

Matt's rabbit hole eventually leads to the Kuycon P20, a 4.5K monitor with near identical specs to the Surface Studio. I got pretty excited upon hearing the YouTuber praise the screen for its respectable image quality, and its Apple-inspired getup is pretty slick too. However, upon finding out that it goes for $999.99 at Amazon, it became firmly clear that this isn't an ideal stand-in for a CRT, especially since it's missing speakers and costs more than most 28-inch OLEDs that are faster than 60Hz.

Despite my reservations, I do respect the fact that Kuycon is one of the few monitor makers even trying to cater to square-ish use cases. Hat tip also to BenQ for also offering up a 3:2 display for $619, albeit with less impressive brightness and specs, but if I'm being real, I think we really need something with OLED vibrancy for that sort of money.

Striking a square screen balance

I'd absolutely love it if a mainstream monitor maker started putting out 4:3 OLED desktop displays tomorrow. I feel like that's too much to ask, given it'll hamper the widescreen content everyone likes to lap up these days, so I'm happy to campaign to make 3:2 displays with just a tiny bit of extra black retro gaming space at each side.

That helps refine my ultimate desire, and I honestly think that 3:2 could work for modern PC gaming thanks to the dawn of the Steam Deck. The gaming handheld uses a 16:10 screen, but fully supports the narrower aspect ratio through scaling in SteamOS. Technically speaking, the Steam Machine should provide the same options for more square displays, bringing us a step closer to a demand for panels that satiate modern players and retro enthusiasts.

Even if you'd rather stick with 16:9 for modern games, you'll only have to deal with slight letterboxing when using a 3:2 display compared to 4:3. That makes it a better balance for players who want to play the latest releases on a rig and use retro consoles with scalers like the OSSC or even FPGA remakes like the Analogue 3D (the 4K N64's CRT filters very much fit into the idea.)

I guess that's my manifesto for why bigger display makers should produce square displays, but I am admittedly compromising. Using screens built to support HDMI or DisplayPort means you'll still have to figure out how to connect retro consoles to modern TVs and monitors, so we could be doing with a specialist solution that integrates older analogue inputs into a square OLED that can rival an old CRT.

The latter doesn't just fall on a display maker's shoulders, as actually replicating visual effects also falls on console makers. Analogue does a pretty great job of reproducing the look of shadow masks and Sony's Trinitron aperture grille, in turn providing extremely accurate pixel separation. However, plenty of HDMI remakes stick with bog-standard scanlines, and those don't really cut the mustard.

Still, I'm willing to take baby steps in my fight for modern screens more suited to retro gaming. The core objective should be to highlight the demand, as while square screens might sound niche, the trend in players searching for old CRTs, paired with the boom within the modern retro console space, proves there is a market. Having spent a lot of time with OLED tech, I firmly believe it should be at the heart of any resulting models thanks to its elevated vibrancy and brightness, but I'm more than up for considering any solutions proposed by screen makers at large.

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Looking to play on the go? Swing by the best retro handhelds for emulation devices that pack a punch.

Okay, if seeing the best retro consoles like the PS2 Slim being chopped up and turned into a handheld homunculus makes you squeamish, you'll want to look away. While there are some eloquent attempts at miniturizing Sony's second system on the internet for portable play, this certainly isn't one of them, and yet, boons like better battery life than the Steam Deck OLED and full controls make the cursed creation sort of alluring.

If you're familiar with James Channel, one of my favorite retro gaming tinkerers and chaotic modders, you'll know what comes next. Just like the diabolical OG Xbox handheld that emerged just before the ROG Xbox Ally X, the PS2 handheld is a ripped-up slim console with the disc drive fully exposed, like a flywheel, complete with a cheap LCD screen slapped on the front.

Naturally, the retro handheld is held together with duct tape, or a "roll of housing" as James so eloquently calls it. Some of you might put the YouTuber's reluctance to carefully cut down console boards, or even 3D print a shell for said creations, as sheer trolling. I'd argue that, as much as the bananas approach is supposed to be entertaining, it highlights some really interesting PS2 hardware elements and demonstrates what's actually achievable when adding contempoary mods.

It's easy to get distracted by the Frankenstein's Monster PS2 handheld, but a chunk of the video features James fixing the console's optical drive. If you're into detailed console repairs, you'll dig the process, as it involves using a clone of Sony's internal calibration tools known as PMAP (or PlayStation 2 Mechacon Adjustment Program), to tweak the system's EEPROM data. Doing so can help the laser read discs if it's having issues, in turn saving the need for hard-to-find drive parts.

The freshly repaired disc drive is then precariously sandwiched between the main board and a cheap sat-nav LCD screen, but that's potentially less offensive than the crunched-up MadCatz controller underneath. Again, this whole project is deliberately "lazy" and involves snipping away at things like the Dualshock and memory card ports before mounting them elsewhere, and while the process is horrific, it does help the portable retain elements like full controls and save compatibility.

The cherry on top of this sliced-up PS2 Slim Sundae, though, is the battery. This time, James has opted to bolt a 10,000mAh power bank to his creation, complete with its tiny LCD status screen. Remarkably, the cells can power the sixth-gen console for over an hour and still have 71% capacity to spare, meaning it could theoretically run for around 5 hours. Those figures put modern gaming handhelds like the Steam Deck and Switch 2 to shame,

I should note that James isn't the first modder to make a portable PS2 using real hardware. You can even seemingly grab systems with a real motherboard at Aliexpress that swap the drive out for flash storage, but those somehow feel less inspired than having a high-speed disc flying next to your face while you play racing games. Said disc launches out of the machine like a banned '80s action figure toy just as the video ends, and while that signals that you shouldn't try this at home, the entire experiment makes for an excellent peek at the old console's innards.

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Sometimes, all it takes is a solid wireless controller to make a retro console feel pretty contemporary. That's exactly what the Retro Fighters StrikerDC has done for my Sega Dreamcast, but after revisiting my collection for the retro console, I now realise that I should have grabbed the accessory brand's other gamepad since my library is dominated by fighting games.

Don't get me wrong, the StrikerDC is serviceable for fighters, even if its $64.99 price tag is a bit yikes. It's absolutely the pad you should go for if you're revisiting 3D capters like Sonic Adventure, but if, like me, you're planning to play a legacy of Neo Geo games like King of Fighters or Capcom classics like Street Fighter 3: Third Strike, you should consider the Retro Fighters D6 while it's down to $39.95. FYI, that's a record low, one that I'm hoping will stick around until after Memorial Day.

I'm not particularly good at fighting games, but I do hold the genre dearly. In fact, while I originally gravitated to the Dreamcast back in the day for its crispy clean textures, higher resolutions, and solid arcade ports, I firmly stayed since Sega's system can almost serve as a Neo Geo AES alternative.

The issue is that the default gamepad, and controllers that mimic the design like the StrikerDC, aren't ideal for fighting games specifically. This is somewhat subjective, but I'd argue that for Street Fighter and its kin, you really want a six-button layout paired with a disc-shaped d-pad for rolling out directional moves, and that's exactly what the Retro Fighters D6 provides.

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I've tested more than a few pads by the brand at this stage, and have been equally impressed by the Retro Fighters Hunter for OG Xbox and its Defender counterpart for PlayStation. That is to say that while I haven't picked up the D6 yet, I'm pretty confident that it'll boast fantastic build quality, reliable 2.4GHz connectivity, and tactile buttons that dodge the sins of third-party alternatives from 30 years ago.

Compared to those other "full" gamepads with thumbsticks and standard button layouts, it might feel like the D6 is limited to fighting games on the Dreamcast. While that is the whole point of this pad, the controller actually has a compatibility edge over the StrikerDC, as it comes with a USB adapter for PC and Switch 2 in addition to the VMU cradle for Sega's console.

In my eyes, that means the D6 is a better value controller than the StrikerDC, even if it's not equipped to handle 3D outings. That said, if you're already rocking the Bluetooth version of the 8Bitdo M30, you can just pick up a Blueretro receiver for around $13 at Aliexpress and use your existing six-button pad. The catch is that if you go down that route, you're introducing a few extra milliseconds of latency compared to 2.4Ghz, and while that's not a biggie for casual play, responsiveness matters more for punishing fighting games from the '90s and early 2000s.

The TLDR is this: if you have a Dreamcast and primarily play fighting games, you should consider the Retro Fighters D6 before it returns to its full price. The brand's catalogue of controllers has a habit of dodging deals, and I'm slightly paranoid that retailers like Amazon will tweak discounts after Memorial Day even if they're not specifically linked to the event.

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Prefer to play the classics on the go? Swing by the best retro handhelds for Game Boy clones, portable emulators, and more.

The Analogue 3D just got its biggest update yet, as the 4K N64 now has save states. Dubbed "Memories", the new feature was promised alongside screenshots before launch, and while we'll need to wait a little longer to take pretty low-poly pictures, not having to do a complete Star Fox 64 run in one sitting is pretty neat.

Chances are that if you have just installed version 1.2.6, you probably missed the big Analogue 3D 1.3.0 update. That's understandable since this patch decided to arrive just days later, which makes me question the retro console maker's release schedule. I'm not grumbling, though, as this revamp finally adds Memories functionality that will let you save state anywhere in your favorite N64 games.

I should note that the Memories feature doesn't live within the main homepage as it did in the early 3DOS teaser images. Instead, it lives underneath each cartridge in your library and can be accessed by pressing down once you've, well, saved a state. You can do that in-game by pressing Home + D-Pad Up on the 8Bitdo N64 controller or Z + Start + C up on OG gamepads.

You can quickly load up existing saves by pressing Home + D-pad down, which will be preferable if you are practicing speed running or you just keep dying every two seconds (looking at you, Tick Tock Clock). Analogue says that the limit is 20 saves for now, and while that feels like more than enough for the average Nintendo 64 enjoyer, I suspect we'll see that figure increase for the true save state-loving sickos out there.

Honestly, this update couldn't have dropped at a better time, as while I've been preaching about playing Star Fox 64 on an actual N64, I was planning on jumping into the Arwing in 4K. Prior to this latest Analogue 3D patch, I had accepted that I'd still need to restart my mission between sessions since there's no memory card support, but that's no longer the case thanks to the Memories feature.

In a sense, the Memories feature means that the OG Star Fox 64 on Analogue 3D has an edge over the new Switch remake. You will be able to "suspend" the latter and come back to levels later, but on the FPGA N64, you'll be able to save practically anywhere you like and even keep a slot for all 16 levels. That even leaves four for saving at specific tricky points, something that matters when it comes to taking the right route for the "true ending."

I've spent a bit of time messing with the 3D's Memories while playing Star Fox 64, and I can confirm the system works well. The screen will blink black upon pressing the hot keys to save or load, and both take only a second or two. I am curious whether Analogue will eventually add the option to set your own shortcuts, though, as having to press home and down could get your digits in a twist depending on the situation.

Circling back to the idea of using a save state for the start of levels, or even just specific scenarios or situations, being able to label each save would be handy. You get a small thumbnail, which helps provide an idea of what awaits you within each file, but as someone who likes to jump to specific areas of a game for reference points, labels would be good for keeping an index.

So far, I haven't run into any troublesome bugs when grabbing and jumping back into Memories. That's perhaps to be expected, given that Analogue waited until six months after launch to release the feature, and the fact that it even works on flashcarts on an individual game basis is a testament to that.

I'll be continually testing my N64 collection with the Memories save state feature, so I'll naturally let you know if any funny business arises. I'm hoping to have used it a whole bunch over the weekend in Star Fox 64, but I am slightly bummed out that screenshots didn't arrive with version 1.3.0. I guess my plans for a physical N64 scrapbook with printed photos of my outings will have to wait.

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Looking to play N64 games on the go? Check out the best retro handhelds for portables that can handle Nintendo's first 3D system.

Atari seems to be just getting started with remaking its best retro consoles and microcomputer contenders from yesteryear, as it just filed a trademark for the 800XL. For those of you unacquainted with the brand's back catalogue of 8-bit systems, that's technically a variant of the Atari 400, and while we technically have a mini version of that Commodore 64 rival, I'm holding out for a machine with original cartridge support.

Highlighted by Bluesky user Powerdubs, the Atari 800XL trademark application covers the specific microcomputer model that hit the scene in 1983. While it ditches the iconic space-age look of the original 400 and 800 machines and adds a proper full-stroke mechanical keyboard, it boasts the same specs and cartridge compatibility as every other 8-bit system in the original lineup.

Frankly, Atari released an absurd number of 8-bit computer models back in the '80s. In addition to the systems I've already mentioned, I also personally own an original 600XL that effectively looks like a smaller 800XL with the same executive office vibe. Both of those variants happen to tie back to an earlier 1200XL machine that shares the same design DNA and hardware, but it was discontinued and swapped out for the aforementioned duo due to price issues and poor sales.

Atari's 8-bit ambitions would eventually give way to more advanced Commodore Amiga competitors like the Atari ST, but it still made room to release 65XE and 130XE systems that run the original carts. The tactic is similar to that of the C64C that'll be getting the Commodore 64 Ultimate treatment soon, since both look like slimline versions of the ST, but we're still talking about largely the same core hardware.

With all that historical hardware-release shenanigans in mind, I can't help but wonder why Atari hasn't re-filed trademarks for all its 8-bit microcomputers. Justia actually has a record spanning back to 1983 for the "1200XL" that is marked as "710 - Cancelled - Section 8", since it hasn't been in use. However, I wasn't able to find any filings pertaining to the 600XL, although there is curiously one for the "ATARI 800XL" complete with the brand's name.

I should stress that none of these trademark filings guarantee that an Atari 800XL remake is on the way. The application could be simple housekeeping, or tied to another collaborative project involving the games themselves on systems similar to the My Arcade Gamestation Go.

That said, the Atari 8-bit-loving dork in me is hoping we'll end up with an 800XL reimagining similar to the Atari 2600+, complete with original cartridge support, 9-pin controller ports, and HDMI output. Perhaps this could even mark the publisher's foray into FPGA remakes, with the microcomputer serving as an opportunity to create something similar to the C64 Ultimate in terms of accuracy and original features.

If Atari can simply take the emulation tech it uses for the 400 Mini, and add in ROM-dumping cartridge support, though, that would more than satiate my 8-bit needs. At the same time, I feel like such a system should also run Atari 5200 cartridges since that weird middle-child system features the same core architecture (and the company seems to be pretending its home console sequel doesn't exist).

As a side note, if your allegiances lie with a certain other microcomputer, you might want to check out what The Spectrum White Edition has to offer all of you ZX Spectrum fans.

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I won’t lie – I find the existence of The Spectrum White Edition pretty amusing. Let’s just say it’s giving “Star Wars alternate universe where Darth Vader lives after Return of the Jedi and switches from black to white armour to signify his fresh start.” Yet, there is a reason why Retro Games Ltd has re-released its plug-and-play ZX Spectrum, one historically linked to the man whose name is no longer on the microcomputer.

You see, The Spectrum White Edition is a nod to the “one millionth” ZX Spectrum produced. The commemorative unit was gifted to the microcomputer’s creator, Clive Sinclair, back in 1982, by the Timex factory that once stood in Dundee, Scotland. The now MIA machine featured a white shell instead of the usual black, and while I’m sure retro console collectors would rather find that lucrative original, this variant at least pays tribute to the fabled system.

It just so happens that this commemorative white version of The Spectrum is my first time testing the emulation-based microcomputer. That means it’s up to the clinical new colorway to convince me it’s worth the more expensive £129.99 / $199 price tag and give me a taste for the base plug-and-play innards within.

What’s in the box?

Retro Games Limited has a sort of rhythm in terms of box contents. Typically, you’ll get the same elongated box cloaked in a slip cover that reveals the star attractions. To the left, you’ve got “The Spectrum” itself in full squishy top-down keyboard view, while “The Joystick” in its matching white and red get-up is to the right. Unlike older releases like the C64 Mini, though, the included USB that’s obviously dubbed “The Microdrive” also gets a stage presence, and yes, it’s white.

Lurking beneath all that, you’ve got a wee compartment for the included USB and HDMI cables, alongside a tiny free copy of “Crash Magazine.” The free zine is packed with reviews, and while it’s a nod to the original that UK Speccy fans would have been reading back in the ‘80s, this is actually a taster for a mag that’s alive and well in 2026, published by Fusion Retro Books.

Everything from the matching white cables to that aforementioned free magazine prove are exactly what you’d want from a collectable like The Spectrum. The package doesn’t leave you wanting for anything when it comes to playing games on the microcomputer, but I am bummed that it doesn’t come with The Gamepad or even the newly released Quickshot II joystick remake. These would have been nice additions, especially if you’re double-dipping after grabbing the black 2024 release, but I’m perhaps asking for a little too much.

Sticking to the Spectrum design script

Retro Games Ltd has mastered the art of making tiny replicas of old microcomputers and systems, but The Spectrum isn’t a mini console. It’s actually a full-size remake of the original ZX Spectrum that, despite being white this time around, looks almost indistinguishable from the original. Naturally, it’s hiding a bunch of modern ports around back, but when it comes to mimicry, it feels like it’s comparable to the way the Commodore 64 Ultimate accurately reenvisioned the OG C64.

Of course, Retro Games Ltd does attempt full-size remakes from time to time, having previously made a to-scale C64 with a functioning keyboard. It feels like The Spectrum is a potential comfort zone for the microcomputer maker, as the OG machine is already notably small, and sticking with ROMs and emulation-based functionality somehow still feels true to the spirit of an original setup.

Before I get to running games, I do want to gush over The Spectrum’s build quality. My original ZX Spectrum is sadly in storage right now, but I have an everlasting sense for the microcomputer’s weighty blend of plastic and metal. Retro Games Ltd has absolutely nailed the look and feel with this remake, perfectly replicating everything from the textured finish on the top bezel to the metallic plate housing the delightfully upsetting rubber keyboard.

Let’s be clear: it’s the rubber keyboard that makes The Spectrum a ZX Spectrum. Even if you’re not into rattling out lines of code on something that feels like zombie flesh, being able to experience the early membrane keeb, albeit with fresher presses since it’s not 40 years old, makes this plug-and-play an interactive time capsule. I’m particularly nerdy about remakes retaining original physical elements, so getting to press down on accurately mushy plastic is a personal selling point.

I should take a moment to highlight the “White Edition” part of this specific Speccy. Naturally, I’ve only ever seen blurry archive photos of the late Sir Clive Sinclair holding his special Millionth ZX Spectrum, so I can’t really speak to whether it’s an accurate recreation. I guess not many people can, but the vibe I’m getting is that this version of The Spectrum feels more like a “what if?” retail replica rather than a representation of what the one-of-a-kind relic would have looked like.

The fact that photos online depict the OG white ZX Spectrum with a silver keyboard plate hammer home the differences with this remake. I’d argue elements like the red logo text on top signify that Retro Games Ltd isn’t really going for a 100% accurate recreation, though, which makes sense given that it can’t have the original “Sinclair” branding up top (you’ve got Alan Sugar, Amstrad’s purchase of the original company, and the fact Sky now owns the legacy brands to thank for that.)

The Spectrum setup is simple (until it isn’t)

I firmly classify The Spectrum as a plug-and-play console. That may upset some of you out there, and I can see why, since it largely functions like the original machine when you ignore the lack of cassette tape deck compatibility. However, it pertains to the sensation of whacking in an HDMI cable, hooking up the USB cable to a power source, and jumping into some crunchy 8-bit classics within seconds.

All of this largely rings true for The Spectrum, and it’s the main reason to pick up the microcomputer remake. This machine will save you from the torment of injecting old tape audio into the machine in real time, as all it takes is one mistranslation of the iconic squealing to be greeted with the dreaded “tape loading error” message. Instead, you’ll have the option to just dive into carousel-style library entries with full artwork and box descriptions, but there may be a silly power situation on your hands before you get to that.

For whatever reason, The Spectrum is extremely fussy with USB power. This is actually an issue that extends backwards to releases like the Atari 400 Mini, as Retro Games Ltd devices seem to be allergic to USB-C ports that use a Power Delivery protocol. Basically, using a USB-A to USB-C cable and a simple 5V charging brick is non-negotiable, and that’s pretty annoying if you’re like me and use a power hub that can easily send the right power over USB-C for everything these days.

I’ll admit, the lack of Power Delivery support is a small gripe, one that wouldn’t deter me from recommending The Spectrum. It does leave me wondering why a plug-and-play would choose to use such a restrictive power system in 2026, since it’s targeting collectors who’ll have more than one mini console at their setup. It’s situations like this where I feel like not including a specific USB power brick leaves room for complaint, as I feel like I’d have less right to moan about having to rummage through my big drawer of old wall warts.

Ports, ports, and more ports

Hiding around the back of The Spectrum’s accurate shell is a nice helping of modern ports. Normally, I’d take a moment to grumble about there only being an HDMI port rather than an old analogue connector for one of my many CRTs, but the original ZX Spectrum is actually a nightmare for connectivity. For starters, it only included RF, and if you’ve already checked out my guide on how to connect your retro console to a modern TV or monitor, you’ll know that means tuning it into a station,

Worse still, the first ZX Spectrum model doesn’t even have controller ports, instead relying on adapters that precariously cling to an edge connector. Therefore, I’m more than happy to instead use HDMI and four USB ports to hook everything up to The Spectrum, as while it’d be fun to use old 9-pin joysticks and hook up to an old CRT, those are impossible to include without disrupting the spirit of the original design.

Four USB ports might feel pretty generous, but they’ll be put to good use. The Spectrum benefits from pretty wide controller compatibility, not to mention the included Kempston-style joystick will occupy one off the bat. If you plan on using your own backed-up ROMs using “The Microdrive”, that’ll grab another, which leaves you with two spare for a secondary player or an external keyboard, should you fancy trying to code using Basic.

Forgive me, but I’m going to revert to previous grumblings and say I do The Spectrum had cassette tape inputs. I’m aware that adding the components required to actually input audio via a 3.5mm jack, then turn the analogue wave into digital data, would drive up the cost, and it’d probably result in a machine more like the FPGA-based ZX Spectrum Next (they’ll also set you back around £400 when they’re actually in stock). Still, I like the idea of dragging out my fruit box of dusty old tapes and playing them on this HDMI remake in the same manner as the C64 Ultimate.

Swinging into Speccy classics

As is tradition with Retro Games Ltd remakes and minis, The Spectrum will immediately present you with 48 built-in games via a carousel menu. If you’re new to the Speccy’s 8-bit library, you’re in for a treat since the collection features everything from bona fide classics to more recent releases that feel contemporary, but still feature those sickly 15 colors and hardware limitations.

I am fully aware that the ZX Spectrum is largely a UK phenomenon that gained momentum while the US was processing the video game crash. Yes, it did show up as the Timex Sinclair 2068 to take on other microcomputers like the C64, but there are still tons of games from the platform that are sort of region-specific. You’ll recognize some outings thanks to cross-ports, like The Hobbit, but I imagine players who didn’t grow up alongside the system in the ‘80s will have plenty of mysterious outings to dive into.

Even if you are well acquainted with classics like Manic Miner, Way of the Exploding Fist, Horace Goes Skiing, and Saboteur, you’ll have a few new and revamped favorites to try. Standout additions to the lineup include Alien Girl, a maze shooter that has you gunning down Xenomorphs, Shovel Adventure, a puzzle platformer that’s a bit like a more complex Dig-Dug, and El Stompo, a green blob on a platforming mission to fix broken TVs (wait, isn’t that just me?)

Basically, you’re getting innovative Spectrum outings spanning over 40 years, but I feel like the carousel could better honor that fact. While the menu displays game art, a synopsis, and even a little emblem representing the original media (i.e, tape, floppy, or cartridge), it avoids including release date info. Essentially, I would have preferred if all the game info within the included edition of Crash Magazine were attached to the carousel, as it would have helped it serve as a comprehensive archive.

Otherwise, I do think flicking through the baked-in adventures, quickly checking out their specific deets, then diving in is a satisfying experience. There’s enough going on with the 48 games to satiate your quick cravings for some microcomputer capers, or provide you with something a bit extra if you’re planning to give proper attention to the hits. If you’re worried you’ll get your fill from the plug-and-play setup too quick, though, you’ll be pleased to hear that The Spectrum will run your own ROMs, provided you’ve got your old games backed up.

That’s naturally why “The Microdrive” is included in the box. You can use your own stick, but the included rubberised 8GB USB has more than enough room to fit every commercially released ZX Spectrum game, and I reckon you wouldn’t even get halfway if you throw in the homebrews too. The only real gripe I have with the drive is that the rubber housing on mine came off upon trying to remove it from the system, but I could probably remedy that with some glue.

Being able to just whack in your own collection and harness the tailored emulation capabilities of The Spectrum is neat, but it’s not without wants. Upon popping in the drive, you’ll gain access to your ROMs via a simple text directory, but there’s no way to add them to the main carousel. The microcomputer would have gained points if there were a way to display files in the same manner as its built-in counterparts, complete with artwork. But alas, your own titles won’t receive the same integration.

On the flipside, I am pretty impressed with the boot options for custom ROMs, as the menu is pretty comprehensive. You can tweak everything from the ZX Spectrum model you want to emulate, tape loading speed (for if you’d rather listen to five minutes of screeching), and default joysticks.

Sparse Spectrum settings

I’m going to preemptively acknowledge the fact that The Spectrum has a “CRT filter” and some other display options before criticizing its settings menu. I’ve tested some retro consoles that feature fewer dials than that, but I couldn’t help but feel like Retro Games Ltd could have fleshed out its scanline types for this microcomputer.

For what it’s worth, the CRT filter does look a bit like an early ‘80s TV, featuring the aforementioned scanlines for some pixel separation and a slight blur effect to represent the messy look of RF video signals. Having been spoiled by the Analogue 3D with its far fancier overlays that mimic specific shadow masks and aperture grilles, I am left wondering if emulation-based plug-and-play devices could do more. At the very least, it’d be sweet to have toggles for things like sharpness, scanline thickness, or even the option for vertical separation, but I am wary that those tricks could gobble up more of the Allwinner H3 SoC’s processing power.

Credit where credit’s due, The Spectrum does leave room for various borders and the option to retain the colored overscan areas used by the original machine. You can also enable extended colors for modern games that ditch the authentic color clash technique. I’d just love to see future machines go a bit further, if for nothing else than to prove that more can be done to portray old graphics on new displays.

Getting jiggy with The Joystick

As much as this will horrify some of you, the “default” way to play games on The Spectrum is using the rubber keyboard. The black version used this as an excuse for not including a controller, but the white version specifically includes a matching version of The Joystick. I should note that most USB gamepads do work with the microcomputer, which is neat, but using an accessory inspired by an original Kempston joystick makes sense from a purist perspective.

Objectively, this version of The Joystick feels nicer than the one included with the C64 Mini. If you were previously offended by the mushier feel of the original’s membranes, you’ll be delighted to hear that this variant fully embraces the power of microswitches. Sadly, the result is something that is now just comically clicky and sort of unpleasant to use.

I was to stress the fact that it’s a subjective take, and it’s worth noting I’m not a fan of even the best original joysticks either. Nevertheless, slick switches fail to resolve some other inherent issues with the design, like the excessive height of the buttons themselves and the hollow clunk produced by presses.

Wide USB controller compatibility is The Spectrum’s saving grace, as it means if you aren’t into the accompanying joystick, you can use almost any pad you like. I’ve actually been making my way through the microcomputer’s library using the Retro Fighters Hunter, an OG Xbox controller with a wireless 2.4GHz receiver, and it even automatically mapped the buttons on my behalf.

No, it’s not remotely an authentic way to play, but it beats rattling around a microswitched stick awkwardly while trying not to ruin Horace’s skiing holiday by having him wrestle with traffic.

Should you pick up The Spectrum White Edition?

It’s pretty easy to love The Spectrum, and it makes for an excellent way to both dive into a collection of obscure classics or run your own romps. The white version is perhaps better suited to collectors who’ll appreciate the novelty of the colorway, especially since it’s a tad more expensive. But, that doesn’t change the fact that this microcomputer remake perfectly captures the physical essence of using an original ZX Spectrum, laced with modern conveniences that help elevate the overall experience.

I have no real grievances with The Spectrum. Instead, I’ve got more of a wish list of things I’d like to see from future microcomputers. Smaller matters, like hitting resolutions over 720p via HDMI, since we’re all using 4K TVs and monitors these days, are on that list, and I’d like to see the visual options fleshed out a bit more to satiate CRT-loving dorks like me. I’d personally also have preferred to get The Gamepad in the box over the included Joystick, but I’m wary of that being a specific preference.

I do think Retro Games Ltd should have a look at the way it approaches powering its minis and reemakes, though. This is something other device makers are guilty of, too, but by not including a power brick in the box, players instead have to worry about finding a compatible adapter since the fast chargers paired with most phones in 2026 won’t do (and even just basic USB-C protocols can be a pain.) Ideally, future devices will use standards like Power Delivery so that those of us with multiple machines can use hubs to keep everything powered at once.

All that aside, The Spectrum hits all the right notes when it comes to replicating the ZX Spectrum experience. The white version specifically makes sense if you’ve already got the old microcomputer, or that weirdly accurate USB keyboard remake from a few years back on your shelf, but I’d give the same praise to the previously released black version, too.

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Lenovo has confirmed that a retro handheld floating round AliExpress wearing the brand is actually officially licensed. Normally, that wouldn't be a biggie, as I've spotted the tech company's name on weird "free" earbuds at Chinese retailers in the past. The difference this time around is that the Game Boy clones being sold by third parties come with a bunch of ROMs, and that's more likely illegal.

The Lenovo "G02" handheld was first spotted by Retro Dodo, with the publication originally questioning whether it was fake. That makes sense given that the company is better known for making high-end gaming handhelds like the Legion Go, and this portable has all the hallmarks of one of those "knock off of a knock off" devices you tend to see mimicking other Game Boy clones by the likes of Anbernic or Retroid.

After emailing several contacts at the brand, Retro Dodo says it eventually got confirmation that the Lenovo G02 is a licensed handheld. However, the PR contact in question, Pedro, is quick to note that it's "produced through a regional brand licensing agreement meant for the China market only and is not part of Lenovo’s official global product portfolio."

"As such, products developed through these agreements may differ from Lenovo products sold through authorised channels," explains Pedro. Simply put, that means that the handheld isn't being produced by the 40-year-old tech giant, and whoever is making the device is simply paying to use the branding.

I'd argue that while the handheld technically isn't "fake", it's still a very specific and problematic genre of device. It's the sort of low-grade portable console that's strictly speaking not really meant to exist outside of China, but will inevitably be bought in bulk by sellers and distributed globally via the likes of Aliexpress and Temu (remember that time SouljaBoy tried to sell handhelds? Yeah, that.)

While China does have its own copyright laws, clone consoles and unlicensed ROMs used to be at the bedrock of the country, as Japanese systems by the likes of Nintendo and Sega were banned. This inevitably led to the rise in "Famiclones" and countless cheap plug-and-play systems that would typically either come with illegally sourced games loaded on an internal chip or knock-off cartridges.

This context is important when it comes to the ROMs packaged with the Lenovo G02. The short of it is that it's typically marketplace sellers and distributors who will load up SD cards with games and bundle them with stock. In fact, some of my favorite devices, like the Anbernic RG28XX, are listed at Amazon right now with "5,000+ games" in their description, and from experience, those are being illegally included without their respective brand's knowledge.

Just so we're clear: it's good practice to erase or discard any ROMs that happen to come with a retro handheld. If you'd rather avoid receiving potentially illegal games with your device, the best approach is to go directly to brands like Anbernic or Retroid, as many third-party listings will come with a dodgy micro SD card.

Judging by Pedro from Lenovo's "thank you for flagging this" response, it sounds like the company may try to investigate the way its brand is being used. Attaching your name to a cheapie Game Boy clone is already a questionable move, but the fact that it's being bundled with ROMs isn't a good look for a gadget maker with a longstanding international presence.

I think it's naive to think the Lenovo G02 will vanish from marketplaces, or that it'll now be shipped without the aforementioned ROMs. The company will likely reiterate its licensing agreements, or amend them to address the situation, though, and that may prompt whoever's producing the portable to change their traditional distribution strategy.

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After a long day of working on the internet, I love nothing more than hiding offline with my Sega Mega Drive. While the retro console did have online capabilities back in the '90s via the Sega Channel, it's very much an off-grid platform in 2026 that's free from the burdens of downloads, DRM, and AI chatbots.

That said, a new Genesis / Mega Drive add-on dubbed the MegaWiFi has emerged on Kickstarter, and it aims to hook the console up to the net (thanks, Time Extension). The project's creator, PaCHoN, says the accessory aims to "liberate" the '90s system by enabling it to connect to modern networks and servers, in turn giving it abilities like online multiplayer.

PaCHoN uses a custom port of Battle City, a top-down tank shooter originally by Namco, to demonstrate the MegaWiFi in action. The basic idea is that you'll be able to play games with pals connected to the same IP address host, rather than perched next to each other on the couch. I'd argue the latter is all part of what makes playing retro games special, but I'm curious to see if internet play on an almost 40-year-old system is practical.

By that, I mean, can you actually enjoy old Genesis / Mega Drive online multiplayer on original hardware with no latency or lag caveats? The project's Kickstarter doesn't delve too deep into the technicalities, and the fact that the page itself has been written by AI is a bummer. A disclaimer that says chatbots were used for "decision making" is slightly odd, too, but the description does clarify that the accessory has been "tested on real hardware for an extended period," which does incite some confidence.

I'm all for arming old consoles like the Mega Drive with modern accessories, especially if they add some modern comforts. For instance, controllers like the 8Bitdo M30 can help untether you from your original gamepad wires while still enjoying low-latency wireless connectivity, but I'm not sure how I feel about dragging Sega's old-timer onto the net.

At the time of writing, the MegaWiFi has amassed 1,268 euros from 12 backers with 42 days to go. It hasn't quite reached its 1,500 euro goal yet, but there's every chance it will get over the line before its June 30 end date. The basic add-on comes in at 50 euros, which works out at around just under $60 or around £44, with different tiers throwing in WiFi testers and USB adapters. Since its early days, there have been no close-ups of the physical device itself yet, so I'll be looking out for some more fleshed-out footage and photos ahead of its planned December 2026 release date.

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The Sega Neptune is the all-in-one Genesis and 32X retro console that never was. It was supposed to serve as a stopgap for players before investing in the Saturn and its wild new 3D capabilities, but it was inevitably cancelled. However, in an age where it's possible to recreate even the obscurest systems using FPGA tech, it should come as no surprise that it's finally getting a release, and it's almost ready for take-off.

A new video shows the "GF1 Neptune" running Knuckles' Chaotix for the Sega 32X via a Mega Everdrive cartridge, with the demo representing a development milestone (Cheers, Time Extension). The team behind the console, GameCare, confirms that the system is now "up and running" and the main Mega Drive (Genesis), Master System, and 32X are all now functional on the remake.

GameCare says it's been working tirelessly to "deliver the most incredible product possible," but also pays tribute to the Nuptune community. "We have many important people in the community to thank," says GamesCare. "Without their help, none of this would be possible, and we will express our gratitude in a very special way soon."

Originally, the Sega Neptune remake was supposed to land last year, but it was pushed to 2026 to allow for development time. It's worth bearing in mind that this is an FPGA system by a small, community-focused team. That is to say, availability and distribution probably won't be on par with FPGA systems like the Commodore 64 Ultimate or Analogue 3D, and even the latter 4K N64 is frequently out of stock.

We also don't have a price for the GF1 Neptune yet, but again, I'd brace for a pretty eye-watering figure. We're talking handmade hardware in smaller batches, meaning you should leave the MSRP expectations you'd normally tie to mass-produced systems at the door. GamesCare also isn't offering any pre-orders right now, so if you do see any pages taking reservations, they're likely a scam.

The Sega Mega Drive, or Genesis as many of you will call it across the pond, is one of my favorite consoles of all time. Sadly, my hardware collection stops at my beloved Mega CD add-on, as I've never been lucky enough to find a 32X for an affordable price. I like to think it's players like me who'll be eyeing up this Nepture remake, not least since it offers up all the perks of FPGA hardware replication while offering an experience that never saw light of day.

My only reservation right now is with the price. I'm not convinced I'll be able to afford the GF1 Neptune, but the good news is there are 32X MiSter cores out there you can use with DIY setups. You could even use the SuperStation One to run your ROMs if you've already got one of those, and while that's a cheaper solution, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't longing for something that looks and runs actual carts like the cancelled Neptune.

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I’ve got to hand it to the Retro Fighters Hunter, as it makes the difficult choice to pay homage to the OG Xbox S controller over the Duke. That inherently means trading a funky, far larger design that will reel in fans of Microsoft’s first console on novelty alone, but your hands will thank you. I’d go as far as to say that focusing on remaking the smaller sequel rather than the oddball original has helped the pad claim the OG Xbox controller throne, especially since it has few rivals out there.

As a matter of fact, the Retro Fighters Hunter is seemingly the only wireless OG Xbox controller out there that will work with Microsoft’s retro console. Yes, Hyperkin has its own remakes, but both the Duke and “DutchesS” stick with just USB. Had either pad included a 2.4GHz receiver just like the Retro Fighters contender, the officially licensed gamepads would be running in the same race. Alas, there’s no easy way to get these would-be rivals connected to the 2000s system, meaning the proverbial hunter has no prey.

The main draw with the Hunter is undoubtedly its OG Xbox compatibility, but it doubles up as a PC controller. Unlike its Retro Fighters StrikerDC sibling, you’re getting an extra USB 2.4GHz receiver in the box, which means it can also be judged as a contemporary gamepad. Whether you’d want to use this pad to tackle your modern-day backlog comes down to how much you like Microsoft’s original controller blueprint, as this accessory feels like the core vision has come full circle.

Back to Xbox basics

It’s easy to assume that taking the Xbox S controller and streamlining it further would effectively result in a 360 gamepad. Instead, the Retro Fighters Hunter pretends the sequel system doesn’t exist and builds upon the original pad premise. Amusingly, taking that alternate design path leads to something that feels like a modern-day Series X/S accessory, but looks distinctly like it belongs next to the 24-year-old console.

Some really obvious face elements help the Hunter hold onto that OG Xbox S controller DNA. The first is those black and white buttons that never made it out of the sixth generation. Both inputs are heavily used across the console’s back catalogue, so including them is a no-brainer, but they also serve as a visual queue that instantly says “that’s an old Xbox pad.”

Subtler elements, like the smaller face buttons with wider spacing, also contribute to the old-school Xbox vibe. The approach isn’t unique to the OG S pad, as after Microsoft ditched the absurd oval buttons of the Duke, it stuck with the size for the 360. If I’m going to be really pedantic, the yellow, blue, red, and green colour scheme and the layout have Sega Dreamcast ancestry, but the important thing is that Retro Fighters has taken the translucent, vibrant parts of the Xbox pad and replicated them with respectable accuracy.

I’ve already spoiled that the shell ergonomics are more like a Series X/S controller than the OG Xbox S pad, but there are nods to the past. The Hunter sadly doesn’t carry on the Wu-Tang logo-shaped grooves, but there is a perimeter ridge that adds definition around the centre. The grips also extend out the back, similarly to the original, albeit with altered thickness and bulk since it’s using different triggers, extra shoulders, and ditches the memory card slots.

Cutting the memory card slots has a knock-on effect when it comes to the Hunter’s design. It means there’s even less bulk around the back, allowing for identical, wider triggers to the Series X/S pad and plenty of free space for your middle fingers to hang. Cutting back on the original’s plastic also contributes to a much lighter feel, which could be construed as a bad thing since in the context of an all-plastic shell.

I personally have no issues with the Hunter’s 290g weight, and it’s certainly heavier than many other retro controllers I’ve tested. In reality, it’s also pretty much the same as the modern Xbox Wireless Controller, with the difference being that AA batteries add just a smidge more heft that weighs it downwards. Effectively, if you think it feels too light or plasticy, you’ve probably not held a stock Series S/X pad in a while.

The Hunter really does ask “what if Microsoft kept OG Xbox gamepad elements?”, but I’d argue that it mainly does so for functionality purposes. Retro Fighters tends to stick with contemporary shells when crafting back-compatible gamepads while sprinkling in some aesthetic nods and workarounds. For the most part, the approach words, although there are usually some functionality caveats that will matter to specific players.

A terrific tribute to transparent tech

Focusing purely on aesthetics beyond the colorful buttons for a moment, the Hunter’s real link to Xbox past is its choice of translucent colorway. Sure, you could go for the basic black version that will match most standard consoles out there. Or, there’s the transparent green version based on that Halo Special Edition system that tends to go for over $400 today.

Woe is me, but I sadly own the vanilla Crystal Edition rather than the Halo console, but the Hunter still feels like it’s made for the system. The slightly frosted transparency and the plastic texture are all a nice match for the OG hardware, not to mention the 2.4GHz receiver sticks to the dress code.

Back in 2002, I had a translucent Mad Catz wireless controller that theoretically should have tied in with my Xbox console. The fact that it was completely see-through is what ultimately spoiled the vibe there, so I’m glad Retro Fighters understands that attention to detail is required to nail the look. That said, the crummy third-party pad did have a memory card slot on its oversized dongle, and that brings me nicely to one of the Hunter’s minor pitfalls.

Look, Mom, no memory card

I know some purists will think the Hunter’s lack of memory card slots is a travesty. For what it’s worth, I enjoy when original elements are retained, but at the same time, I get why Retro Fighters left them back in 2001. Simply put, you don’t need it to store game data since the OG Xbox has a hard disc drive, and the accessory’s original purpose was transporting saves between systems.

Where Retro Fighters has potentially dropped the ball is with the Hunter’s receiver, as it also doesn’t feature virtual memory abilities. This is something I’ve become accustomed to by way of 8Bitdo’s Retro Receivers and Blueretro wireless adapters, as both dongle brands double up as memory cards for consoles like the N64. This would have solved any functionality gripes with the lack of memory cards, since it would let you migrate saves, negating the need for an elaborate solution like the StrikerDC’s VMU dock.

That latter Dreamcast pad pretty much has to retain VMU support for gameplay reasons, although I’d argue it’s a core feature of the system too. In contrast, the Xbox memory cards were just a last hurrah for the genre of accessory, and while it was handy if you wanted to take your save to a friend’s house, I don’t think the Hunter absolutely had to mimic functionality. Plus, if you’re that into preserving original features, you’ll probably have a wired pad to hand that will fulfil your needs.

Slick sticks for aging shooters

You probably guessed that the first game I jumped into with the Hunter in hand was Halo 2. The sequel shooter serves as an instant indicator for whether the fancy new hall-effect sticks boast the right sensitivity and calibration for console shooters, and strutting around as John Halo Master Chief feels nice and smooth.

I should be clear that the Hall-effect sticks aren’t solely responsible for the Hunter’s comparative slickness. Unless you’ve got a box-fresh original Xbox pad, a controller from the 2000s with potentiometer gimbals, and stocks that have been grinding plastic on plastic will always feel rougher. Since the sticks still feature a traditional plastic edge that rubs against the shell bowl, the Retro Fighers pad may even end up suffering from a slightly similar fate over time, but it will ultimately be saved by its magnetic innards.

The pitch is that hall-effect tech will save you from stick drift, but it also provides a more glidey feel to the stick movement itself. It’s a pretty subtle effect, one that’s presumably the result of fewer bits inside that require contact, so you might not even notice. Alas, as someone who’s been testing controllers conventional and odd for 30 years, it’s something that stands out when frantically gunning down the Covenant.

I’d boil down the sensation as feeling like you’re using a modern pad with the right button placement to play janky shooters in this instance. I love playing this era of FPS games on authentic hardware, but there’s no denying that playing at 30fps with something that feels fresh is slightly odd. I wouldn’t even say that’s a bad thing, more just something that highlights the juxtaposition of playing old games with new pads.

Naturally, I also fired up DOOM 3, and darting around Mars fending off the hordes of hell felt similar on the Hunter. Given the choice for longer playthroughs, I’d absolutely opt for Retro Hunters’ pad purely for the modern ergonomics and nicer triggers that don’t make a fire engine chorus of spring sounds when rapid firing (looking at you, Duke). At the same time, having the shoulder buttons tricked my brain into thinking I was playing the BFG version for Xbox 360, which ultimately made the black and white buttons feel redundant.

There are two wolves in me forever raging over whether to use modern or original controllers with retro consoles. They certainly ended up scrapping during this review, and it’s largely due to the Hunter feeling like an Xbox Series S/X controller clone. This stood out particularly when playing through my shooter collection, not even in a negative sense, but in a way that served as a constant reminder that I was using a pad made in the modern age.

Great across all genres

There’s far more to the Xbox than pew-pewing, and the Hunter needs to be at least competent across all genres to be worth recommending. I’m delighted to report that the pad does indeed shine across my pretty diverse collection, albeit with one initial snag highlighted by the platformer that made me beg my parents for Microsoft’s contraption.

Kudos if you guessed I’m talking about Oddworld: Munch’s Oddysee, as Abe’s 3D sequel was indeed a personal system seller. The Hunter almost broke my heart upon repossessing the Mudokon, as I found that it was nearly impossible to get him to sneak. Even the gentlest press on the left stick would have him casually walk, and in a dystopian capitalist hellhole ruled by armless aristocrats that want to eat you, that’s bad juju.

Thankfully, simply using the on-board calibration feature, activated by holding the back reset button and A+B, remedied the issue. The narrow deadzone wasn’t noticeable when playing the likes of Halo 2, but this is why I play every game in my collection when testing retro controllers. I’m just happy that Abe won’t end up being the latest “New N Tasty” menu item due to weird stick sensitivity.

I’m not trying to be funny, but “Retro Fighters” doesn’t always make gamepads suited to fighting games. That’s certainly the case for the StrikerDC Dreamcast controller, which has a six-button D8 sibling with a design tailored for the genre. It’s for that reason I was initially worried the Hunter would become the prey in some of my favorite throwdowns, but the circular d-pad saves the day this time around.

In the grand scheme of things, the Hunter’s D-pad is far from perfect. It’s a copy of the widely regarded Series X/S disc that swaps the microswitches for membranes, and its convex design is slightly shallower, too. Both those elements make it feel comparatively mushy, but I was still able to Spiral Arrow my way through Marvel Vs Capcom 2 as Cammy far easier than when playing the Dreamcast version with the StrikerDC.

That is to say that the Hunter d-pad is serviceable for rolling inputs, but I prefer the slightly freer feel of the S pad. The difference isn’t a deal breaker, don’t get me wrong, but it’s clear that the focus is on 3D controls more suited to the OG Xbox era. I do think there was a little bit of room for tweaks to make this a better fighting game pad, like dialling in the d-pad and even making the black and white buttons slightly taller for throwing light punches and kicks. Still, you’ll certainly get by using this controller for the console’s fighters without encountering any unforgivable sins.

The Dead or Alive games are an OG Xbox staple, and the d-pad works well in the 3D fighter, too. I know many of you do use the thumbstick for the Team Ninja romp, so it’s perhaps not the same as when wrestling with Capcom combos. Nevertheless, the Hunter will serve you well across the trilogy, and if you’re playing Volleyball, I’m sure the controls won’t distract you from serious sports mechanics.

I’ll tail my testing thoughts off with racing games, as the OG Xbox has quite a few gems. In everything from Burnout Revenge to Project Gotham, the Hunter served as a reliable wheel with great handling. If it weren’t for the fact that I was playing on a CRT, the controller could have easily tricked me into thinking I was playing modern ports. That’s partly thanks to the uncanny Series S/X gamepad feel, which is a positive since it dodges the sensation of just playing using a modern controller.

On that note, I did put the Hunter to work as a modern PC controller, and it more or less felt the same as a modern-day Xbox pad. Upon popping in the USB wireless receiver, Steam Input will detect an Xbox 360 gamepad, meaning it won’t automatically map modern functions like the share button. The good news is you can manually set the black or white buttons to cover that, or even just use them as shoulder alternatives for fighting games.

A Hunter’s serviceable stamina

I’d feel compelled to strip the Retro Fighter’s Hunter of its alpha controller status if its battery life were subpar. It’s an unforgivable sin when there’s no way to charge the controller from the OG Xbox itself, and I’m slightly irritated that the dongle doesn’t have power output since Microsoft’s proprietary ports can output 5V.

In any case, I got around 12 hours out of the Retro Fighters Hunter before reaching for my external USB charger. That’s roughly the same runtime as every other wireless Xbox controller in my life, so I’m content with the runtime its 500mAh is providing. My testing sessions did involve playing games with lots of rumble, where possible, and messing around with the intensity settings, which may have shaved some practical time off. If you want to preserve some juice, you could use the rumble intensity macro (left stick up or down + right arrow button), but I can’t guarantee it’ll go for significantly longer.

Should you pick up the Retro Fighters Hunter?

It feels like the Retro Fighters Hunter should have more OG Xbox wireless gamepad competition. However, while it is alone on the battlefield, its excellent modern ergonomics, paired with era authentic face buttons, mean it’d still be in the running for the best OG Xbox controller crown. I’d even argue that this is one of the best gamepads by the brand out there, beating the StrikerDC on overall feel.

I am slightly torn on whether an OG wireless Xbox controller should be directly lifting elements from Microsoft’s modern pad. The triggers are nearly identical, and the sticks would be too if it weren’t for the subtleties of hall-effect tech. It’s clear that Retro Fighters wanted to avoid pigeonholing this pad by enabling it to serve as a modern-day PC accessory, hence the extra 2.4Ghz USB adapter, but had all the focus been on the accessory’s original console functionality, we’d be looking at a retro controller with a perfect score.

That doesn’t mean the Hunter isn’t my top wireless pick for the OG Xbox, it’s more that I’m wondering what could have been. Some refinements to the shape to give it an authentic edge, squeezing memory card support in somewhere, would make this fantastic controller spectacular for the sixth-gen systems specifically.

As always, my desire for a wireless controller that feels almost like an Xbox S dupe is subjective. Some of you are going to dig using the extra shoulders on the Hunter rather than the black and white buttons, and players who are used to modern-day ergonomics will have less interest in replicating the curves and angles of a pad from yesteryear. There are also some sickos who’d happily trade wireless comfort for something just as menacing in the hands as the Duke, and honestly? I respect that.

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Another update for your Analogue 3D has arrived in the form of version 1.2.6, and this one's for the cartridge nerds. This time, the patch enhances the FPGA retro console N64 library by letting you change the colors of each cart. That's going to make your on-screen collection look just like your shelf, or you could just make everything pretty in pink.

The specific color options in the Analogue 3D version 1.2.6 patch notes include gray, red, green, blue, yellow, gold, black, purple, and pink. Aside from the latter two girlypop colorways, all of those flavors match official cartridges released by Nintendo, and the cart plastic occasionally represents a more elaborate backstory.

For instance, Turok: Rage Wars was released in the US with a black shell, but that version is cursed with a bug that makes it impossible to 100% complete. Developer Acclaim inevitably set up a replacement process where players could mail in that copy and receive a patched version, but the replacements featured a generic gray shell. That variant is now a sought-after collector's item, so having it properly represented within your Analogue 3D library makes sense.

Not everyone's going to relate to the Turok anecdote, especially if you're in Europe, where Rage Wars was released in bog-standard grey by default. Personally, I'm just hyped that I can set my NTSC Donkey Kong 64 cartridge to its appropriate yellow attire, and you can bet I'll be setting Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards to puffball pink. It'll also be pretty fun setting homebrew and ROM hacks to whatever shade feels right, especially since flash cart files can now show as individual library entries.

These latest library improvements help the 4K N64 feel far slicker than it did back at launch, but I am itching to see bigger promised features arrive on the Analogue 3D. We'll potentially have to wait until version 1.3 for the screenshots function that acts as a photo album, or the "Memories" tab that should serve as a save state hub, but taking baby steps with the FPGA system is a wise move.

Rather than shoving every feature out the door, Analogue has been slowly fine-tuning the 3D post-launch. Alongside the colorful library carts, Version 1.2.6 also addresses SD card stability, improves the progressive output mode for games like Resident Evil 2 by fixing flickering, and polishes the 3DOS with perks like longer scrolling library titles.

That said, bigger features are still popping up on the 4K N64. Last month's Version 1.2.5 added advanced HDR to the Analogue 3D that helps it mimic the brightness of a CRT TV, and previous patches added the invaluable ability to force progressive scan rather than the original, blurrier interlaced visuals. Hopefully, the next update will finally let me take cute snaps in my favorite Nintendo 64 outings, as it feels like the natural next step for 3DOS.

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I've been meaning to get around to some basic PSP mods for a while, but one of my favorite modders basically just remade the retro handheld. Rather than simply buying a cheap replacement shell or swapping in an IPS display, YouTuber Polymatt has designed and manufactured the portable's body using brass and acrylic from scratch.

As with all of Polymatt's videos, this PSP project is all about the journey rather than the finished product. The video details what the modder admits is a project that doesn't have a specific end goal in mind, with the only ambition being to "elevate" the gaming handheld with a shell that "really does the design justice."

In this instance, that means gifting the PSP an acrylic front and back shell alongside a brass CNC-milled core. Polymatt describes the process of tearing down the mid-2000s handheld as an "archeological dig", which is something I really relate to as a retro console modder. It's a reference to the design philosophies that inevitably dictated how systems came to be and the minds making the gadgets.

You might now be itching to make your own PSP shell, but I honestly don't think even console modding enthusiasts will be taking on this project. Polymatt's self-described "rabbit hole" involves using high-tech 3D scanners, spraying the original parts with slow-evaporating "scanning spray" to make them a white, camera-friendly color, then modelling the shell before testing fitting using 3D printed prototypes.

To cap that all off, the modder then machines blocks of brass and mills acrylic to make the final parts, which come with lots of sanding and detail work. The process looks therapeutic, but it requires far more skill and patience than just popping the innards in a new plastic shell. In the middle of all that, Polymatt even designs his own USB-C mod board that replaces Sony's old barrel jack, something I haven't even considered yet.

The end result is a PSP that looks like a high-end fashion brand handheld that skirts the line between elegance and Steampunk vibes. Polymatt confesses that he made a few boo-boos, though, like somehow forgetting to mill out the shoulder button spaces and accidentally blocking the power switch with the new USB-C mod. Nevertheless, this custom body is basically a work of art, and is an example of what's possible in terms of reviving and revamping our beloved old gadgets.

I'll be sharing my own PSP project soon, and that will focus on adding simpler IPS screen mods to my pink handheld. If you've got any requests ahead of that, or thoughts about new parts in general, let me know, and I'll look into them. Just note that I won't be modelling my own shell, I'll leave that to talented folks like Polymatt.

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Okay, look, I get why everyone's excited for Star Fox on Switch 2. For the record, I'm hyped to jump back in an Arwing too, but unlike most other players, the original Star Fox 64, or Lylat Wars as it's known where I'm from, never left my household. Yes, my OG N64 has remained a part of my setup for over 30 years, and I don't think it's too late for you to try the '90s mission before the remake lands.

I'm a big believer in keeping all the best retro consoles from yesteryear alive, and that naturally includes the N64. Retaining access to original hardware means that when remakes of Star Fox happen, you'll have a 100% accurate representation of what the original on-rail shooter looks and feels like, even if that means being extra horrified at the new Slippy Toad.

What can I say, I'm a sucker for the old polygonal space critter heroes of Star Fox 64. Slippy, in particular, looks manically adorable, whereas the new version looks a bit too, uh, realistically slippy. Before you start typing, I'm aware that the new models look more like the puppets on the SNES box, but I'll still be firing up my old N64 cartridge and console to enjoy the amphibious friend I flew alongside back in 1997.

Revisit the Lylat System on an OG setup

Let's just assume you're now itching to play Star Fox on an original Nintendo 64, and my devious plan is coming together. Shock horror, but the very first step is acquiring an N64, providing you don't have one stashed away in the attic. If not, you should be able to track one down without cables for under $70 at eBay, but I'd try to spend a little more for a bundle including the power supply.

That will ultimately save you from scrambling for a second-hand N64 PSU or a third-party option. I tend to avoid the latter in fear that they'll fail and mess up my 30-year-old baby, but if you're braver than me, there are swanky new USB-C options for around $18 at Aliexpress that I'll end up trying at some point.

As for Star Fox 64 itself, you're looking at around $25 for a cartridge second-hand, or under £10 for a PAL copy of Lylat Wars. Boxed copies in nice condition will naturally run you a lot more, but if you're not into lining up cardboard boxes on a shelf, just the cart will do.

Securing an N64 and the game is half the battle, as the bigger challenge is working out how to connect your retro console to a modern TV or monitor. I've covered that in depth already for those of you using a display that wasn't around in the '90s, but the skinny is that unless you're using an old CRT TV with old school RCA composite (the yellow, red, and white suckers) or S-Video, you're going to need something that'll convert your cables to HDMI.

As someone who specializes in using retro consoles in the modern age, the N64 is a bit of a nuisance. That's thanks to Nintendo only including composite or S-Video with its first 3D system, meaning you'll get an inferior, slightly blurry image compared to clean RGB (red, blue, and green). The knock-on effect is that when you use cheaper upscalers, like many HDMI adapters for around $20 at Amazon, you'll be scaling up an already muddier image to 1080p.

Some of you might not care about sharpness when diving into old N64 games on the actual console. If that's the case, those adapters are the simplest way to get up and running on a new panel, but perfectionists will recommend looking into enabling RGB on your console (using a Tim Worthington board) or even HDMI modding the console for cleaner output.

I've already HDMI modded my N64, so you don't have to, and the results are pretty respectable. I wouldn't remotely recommend the project to novices since it involves some scary soldering, but Highspeedio's custom board does pull a nice image straight from the PPU (Picture Processing Unit) that's free from the Vaseline look of composite.

What I will say is that the results aren't perfect, and you'll be capped at 720p with the cheaper mod I used. There's a far more expensive "Ultra HDMI" kit that will set you back $200 that can do 1080p, and a straight RGB mod will let you use upscalers like the OSSC without having to convert composite/s-video first. Believe me when I say the latter is a faff, but it's easy to see why FPGA, 4K-capable remakes like the Analogue 3D exist, given the nature of the OG console.

If you are really into the N64, I wouldn't blame you for picking up a 3D for $269.99. Sure, it's not technically original hardware, but it's the most accurate system you could play on not made by Nintendo, plus there are lots of nice CRT filters that make games like Star Fox 64 look right. Again, though, if you're not a pixel perfectionist, cheap upscalers and the aforementioned HDMI mod will serve you pretty well, and I've played Lylat Wars on all three with no catastrophies.

Controllers and accessories for fighting Andross

You won't be taking the fight to Andross in your Arwing without a controller, so that's the last mandatory step before entering the Lylat System. The number of new gamepads out there for what is a near 30-year-old console is pretty bananas, and I've tested just about every option available.

If you decide to keep things ultra authentic with the original, wired N64 controller, I need to heed some warnings. The first is that the old optical-mechanical joystick in most OG pads is going to feel crunchy, which is going to make Fox McCloud's flying skills feel sketchy. Thankfully, replacement modules are easy to fit, and if you'd rather use something more contemporary, I can confirm that hall-effect thumbstick mods by the likes of Hyperkin feel pretty accurate.

The appropriately spaceship-shaped N64 controller is charming, but I know for a fact some of you will struggle to get to grips with its weird trident handles. It's for that very reason that I end up recommending the shiny new 8Bitdo N64 controller instead, as it takes the exact layout of Ninty's pad and plops it on a modern, Switch Pro Controller shell.

Those of you exclusively sticking with Star Fox 64 will want to grab the 8Bitdo controller with a 2.4GHz receiver. Doing so will let you plug straight into the console, whereas you'll need a separate retro receiver or adapter if you go for the Bluetooth version. I would consider the latter if you're planning on getting Star Fox for Switch 2, though, as it'll mean you can use the pad with Ninty's gaming handhelds and other devices (yes, I am going to just spend June as a Foxy pilot using the pad).

Opting for the 8Bitdo pad will actually save you a few pennies on accessories, as it has built-in rumble and memory card storage in the receiver. If you stick with the original, you'll need a separate Rumble Pak (they're around $17 at eBay), but I'd argue you don't have to rush out for a Controller Pak since there's no level saving in the N64 game (it will save your medals and score to the cart, though).

With all the above in hand, you're ready to save the Lylat System from a big disembodied floating head and his goons. In my humble opinion as a retro girlie, going to the effort of getting an N64 and all the bits is well worth it for Star Fox 64, even if it only serves to make the Switch 2 version feel all the more modern when it lands.

Quicker ways to play classic Star Fox

Alright, I know some of you have no interest in pitching up old consoles, especially if it's just to play Star Fox 64. The good news is that if you have a Switch 2, Nintendo's Online Subscription has you covered, and you can even use that 8Bitdo controller I recommended to dive into the action.

The NSO version uses emulation, but the results are as solid as you'd expect for an official Ninty port. My biggest issue with these emulated ROMs is that they usually feature weirdly sharp models and original resolution UI, which looks weird compared to the original hardware.

The same applies to running your own backed-up ROM on a retro handheld, but DIY methods come with their own caveats. For starters, the Nintendo 64 is notoriously difficult to emulate, so you'll need something punchy to get Star Fox 64 running without hiccups. Even when using a more premium portable like the Mangmi Pocket Max, I noticed some lighting effects and textures weren't quite right, so that's worth keeping in mind.

The good news is that Star Fox 64 also got a 3DS remaster, so grabbing that version or emulating it is also an option. You'll need something with decent specs and the right size of screen, like the Anbernic RG Cube, but it's another option with improved graphics.

In truth, it doesn't matter how you play so long as you give the original Star Fox 64 a go. You could even consider it a "training mode" for the remake, but I know in my heart it'll be the N64 version I go to first.

If you're just starting out, swing by the best N64 games for the console's top classics.

I'm not entirely sure how I feel about the freshly announced Star Fox remake for Switch 2 yet. That's largely since it takes one of my favorite on-rail shooters for what I believe to be one of Nintendo's best retro consoles ever and gives it an entirely new modern vibe with the same mechanics at its core. What I do know already, though, is that the revamped shooting and 8Bitdo's take on the N64 controller are going to be a perfect pairing.

Don't get me wrong, I'll be trying out the new Star Fox on Switch 2 with an official Nintendo 64 wireless gamepad this June. But, I can already see myself defaulting to the 8Bitdo N64 controller since, just like the upcoming remake, it takes the original layout and modernises the feel and look, all while still feeling pretty authentic.

I should be clear that you don't need a N64 pad specifically to play Star Fox on Switch 2. The shooter has been overhauled from the ground up, and its mechanics should benefit from the same modernization as its (questionable) new character designs and fancy stages. At the same time, Nintendo is pitching playing with the '90s console's gamepad as an option to keep things feeling just like Fox McCloud's OG mission.

I have a lot of love for the trident-shaped N64 pad, even going as far as to mod it with a hall-effect joystick. That doesn't change how bananas its design looks today, however, and the fact that it looks like it requires multiple hands to use means fresher players are unlikely to vibe with it when playing the new Star Fox.

That's where the 8Bitdo N64 controller comes in, as it takes the single stick and massive A and B button layout of the '90s pad and blends it with contemporary ergonomics. Again, the new Star Fox should feel just as nice with modern pads like the Joy-Cons, and there's even a new mouse mode, but the underlying game was still designed with that older, early 3D layout in mind.

I've played a whole bunch of Star Fox 64 with the 8Bitdo controller on an actual N64 using a wireless adapter and in 4K using the Analogue 3D. I can't speak for how the remake will feel yet, but if playing the 30-year-old game the Switch 2 version is based on is anything to go by, barrel rolling around in the Arwing should feel damn fine using the new Bluetooth pad specifically.

In my mind, controllers like this are all about placement. It might feel silly using one stick or ditching the now conventional cross-face buttons of today's pads, but it's all about having the main inputs in exactly the right place for intuitive play. If Star Fox sticks to the original N64 stick, I'm almost certain that playing with an N64 layout will feel superior to a Switch 2 Pro Controller or Joy-Cons, even with some modern tweaks in place.

If you are tempted to grab an 8Bitdo N64 controller ahead of the new Star Fox's release, there are a couple of things to note. The main thing is that you grab the Bluetooth version rather than the new 2.4GHz pad, as the latter uses a dongle specifically for the N64. You'll still be able to use the Switch-compatible version with your OG console using an aforementioned dongle (I use a Blueretro adapter that's around $20), and both versions look and feel identical.

The only other pointer I have regarding the 8Bitdo N64 controller is colorways. I'm pretty into the gray version since it's got those authentic, multi-colored buttons, but you can just grab a black or white version if you'd prefer something subtle. You'll still end up with a pad for playing the original Star Fox 64 on NSO or the original console ahead of the remake's arrival, and it could help you become one hell of a Foxy pilot ahead of June 25.

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Sorry, Amiga fans, but the upcoming THEA1200 remake by Retro Games Ltd has been delayed. The full-sized, emulation-based microcomputer was set to enter the best retro console arena next month, but its creators are pushing it back until December 4 as its "operating system isn't where it needs to be."

In a lengthy THEA1200 update, Retro Games Ltd attributes the six-month delay to the knock-on effects of "global chip shortages and rising plastic production costs." Those factors have seemingly eaten into the retro console maker's schedule, and the emulation system's shiny new OS needs more development time as a result.

"We could ship with a more basic OS, but that wouldn't do justice to THEA1200," explains RGL's chief technical officer Chris Smith. "This machine is about delivering the best possible Amiga experience, and that means taking the time to get it right."

The company acknowledges that "delays are frustrating" while paying tribute to the feedback of Amiga fans. Of course, this isn't the first time THEA1200 has been pushed back: the microcomputer was originally planned for the end of 2024 but was shelved due to legal disputes over the Amiga branding held by IP holders.

Those issues have since been ironed out, so the latest setback is tied directly to development. Unlike arguably simpler releases like the Atari 400 Mini or the older C64 Mini, this Amiga remake will come armed with a full Workbench environment that mimics the functionality of the 32-bit home computer. The '90s machine used a mouse-driven GUI, and the operating system's legacy of software and games means RGL has a bigger compatibility challenge on its hands beyond the 25 classics included in its console-like carousel.

In a world where FPGA tech is powering ultra-accurate retro remakes like the Commodore 64 Ultimate and Analogue 3D, there's little room for error with emulation-based systems like THEA1200. I do firmly think Retro Games Ltd's take on revamping old machines has its place in 2026, and I'm pretty excited to try a new Amiga with an actual keyboard.

That said, delaying THEA1200 until December feels slightly risky, especially its resurrected Commodore brand rival is putting out a C64C Ultimate less than a year after the breadbin version. At that rate, we might end up with a FPGA Amiga that boasts original floppy disc support and cycle accurate hardware, and if the prices are close, enthusiasts will be lured away from what Retro Games Ltd is working hard on.

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For two weeks, my life has consisted of nothing but Marathon – both the single-player sci-fi FPS from 1994, and this year’s multiplayer reboot. Despite sharing the same name, classic and modern Marathon are fundamentally different games. They represent two divergent philosophies on how to create an immersive experience using narrative, world-building, and weighty themes to keep players invested, and when that experience should stop.

Like other classic boomer shooters (Doom, Quake, Wolfenstein 3D), 1994’s Marathon is defined by its lightning-fast action, diverse weaponry, and non-linear levels. One of my favorite aspects of classic Marathon is how it uses tight level design and lighting to hide enemies either in darkness or behind corners. While the game never becomes a full-on horror experience, it leaves me constantly on my toes, especially when I’m low on health and haven’t saved in a while.

In fact, health and saving are often my biggest sources of fear when playing Classic Marathon. Since there’s no automatic saving or regeneration, I constantly have to run around to find a health/save station, which is especially stressful when I’m transported to a new level with low health and have no idea where enemies may be waiting. Combined with the fact that I can’t manually reload, and the result is a game that is as strategic as it is kinetic. One wrong move and I could lose substantial progress.

Then and now

This stress is the defining aspect of my experience with classic Marathon, and surprisingly, it also applies to how I feel playing modern Marathon. Modern Marathon is too mechanically polished to recreate the exact nervousness I have playing the original, but it builds that sensation by leaning hard into its extraction shooter and PvP elements, in which all equipment is lost upon death.

Every time I am rewarded with a new gun or manage to extract decent loot, I always have to roll the dice on whether or not to use or invest in that equipment, especially when I lose far more often than I win. At the same time, if I decide to play with sponsored kits, which are pre-made loadouts provided for free, I don’t risk losing anything particularly valuable if I die, but at the cost of putting myself at a disadvantage compared to other players who use more specialized and upgraded weapons, or even compared to the AI enemies, who are surprisingly tough.

I often find myself needing to adopt on-the-run, strategic approaches depending on the circumstances of my environment, which isn’t dissimilar to how I play the original. However, it’s how both games realize this shared sensation of dread, using the strengths of their respective modes and mediums (fixed-order single-player vs online, map-based multiplayer), that makes them distinct.

Terminal entries

Classic Marathon begins fairly simply, as a nameless security officer boards a massive colony ship called the UESC Marathon to stop the Pfhor, an invading alien force. The game quickly treads into surprisingly contemplative and philosophically profound territory when the player is forced to work with a sentient, morally ambiguous AI called Durandel, who communicates via in-game terminals. I often found myself engaging in existential discussions with Durandal, unraveling the AI’s plans while also tackling concepts such as free will, identity, consciousness, and true freedom.

Modern Marathon’s main premise – of Runners being sent to a mysteriously abandoned colony, which the people on the Marathon ship created before they too went dark – is an interesting hook that ties this reboot to the original game while justifying its own existence. In Cryo Archive, modern Marathon’s latest map and endgame content, we return to the UESC Marathon, which is filled to the brim with references to Durandal and the events of classic Marathon.

Yet, as interesting as these lore bits are, they are only in service of propping up the game’s primary selling point: its multiplayer extraction shooter mechanics. Contracts may contain some plot or worldbuilding elements, but only to create an in-universe reason for why I need to complete random challenges like breaking 20 windows, and even then, they often prioritize tangible rewards over narrative fulfillment.

Bungie today

When the original Marathon was released, it opened the floodgates for a slew of immersive, story-driven, single-player games Bungie would go on to develop, like Marathon 2: Durandal, Marathon Infinity, Oni, and, of course, Halo. Bungie became synonymous with using the FPS medium to tell stories that, to this day, are uniquely complex within video games. Despite its age, I still became invested in Marathon’s universe, characters, themes, and pacing.

Modern Marathon, on the other hand, displays Bungie's continuing commitment to online live-service games. It’s easy to say that this pivot is a financial one – and it certainly has been lucrative – but I believe that creative ambition is just as much a reason for this shift.

As exciting as Marathon and Halo are, they are also one-and-done games that most, aside from hardcore fans, will only play for a certain amount of time before moving on to something else. While their universes are expanded upon and their multiplayer modes are improved in future installments, those sequels also have a limited window of engagement. This limitation is perhaps why Bungie has transitioned away from its roots and towards live-service, as it views the latter as the next step in storytelling, competition, and worldbuilding that aligns with its current creative goals.

With this year's Marathon following in Destiny’s footsteps, Bungie can now invest heavily in a single title that can be continually fleshed out with content updates that, if done right, can sustain engagement for years. Using the live-service model, Bungie merges its single-player and multiplayer strengths, offering fans of the former a lore-heavy setting that flourishes with new lore details and settings, while also appeasing the latter with new maps and challenges that hardcore players can engage with. The Cryo Archive update is the latest example of that merging, as it offers both a new map for players to compete in and new lore to expand the game’s universe.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time with classic Marathon, but I'm unlikely to return to it soon – after completing the main story, my experience felt complete. Modern Marathon, meanwhile, remains ever-changing – and considering how much I've been enjoying this game, I suspect Tau Ceti IV still has plenty to offer.

I'm playing Marathon like a single-player stealth sim, and after 70 hours of sneaking I'm begging you to try a solo run

The Gulikit Elves 2 Pro is the Swiss Army Knife of retro controllers. Yes, I am cringing at how cliché an opening line that is, but the Bluetooth gamepad could stand in as an accessory for almost every system I own. At least, it can if you arm your console collection with additional adapters and receivers, and while that’s a caveat, it could save you buying separate pads well into the future.

I should note that, technically speaking, the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro is a PC controller. I’ll also pair nicely with your Switch 2 and Android devices, too, but it undeniably looks like it belongs next to a retro console. Specifically, it draws massive inspiration from classic Sega pads, boasting the same disc d-pad and boomerang design as the Saturn pad. It even comes in a white flavour that pays homage to the white Japanese system’s colorful getup, just like the Retro-Bit Sega Saturn Pro controller, and that’s exactly the reason why I’ve decided it’s also a retro controller contender.

At full price, you’ll pay around $50 for the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro, but this gamepad loves to wear a discount. If you can grab it for $35, you’ll be investing in a surprisingly premium-feeling accessory with impressive tricks and great wireless compatibility. If you’re here for an all-in-one retro controller solution, though, just keep in mind you’ll also need to pick up 8Bitdo Retro Receivers or Blueretro adapters as you go for each system, and that expense will certainly add up.

Modern innards, Sega sensibilities

I’ll come clean: I probably wouldn’t have grabbed the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro if it didn’t look like a Sega Saturn controller. I was specifically lured in by the off-white color scheme paired with those multi-colored face buttons and maroon bumpers, and I’m a complete sucker for that kind of d-pad.

D-pads usually end up spoiling the proverbial retro controller broth, and looks can be extremely deceiving. Some approaches don’t even have to be inherently bad; they can instead just not align with specific player preferences, which results in the same tactile dissatisfaction. If you’re a Nintendo kid, for instance, you might think anything disc-shaped is criminal, whereas it’s exactly what I see since I was raised by a Sega Mega Drive.

In my humble opinion, the Elves 2 Pro’s d-pad is incredible. It’s got the same textured finish as an actual Saturn pad, something Retro-Bit dropped the ball with, and all eight directions feel distinct on its floating gate. Upon first rolling my thumb across its pleasing matte surface, I knew it’d be a winner, and it really set the rest of the pad up for success.

I’ll admit that I wasn’t expecting anything extraordinary from a controller that frequently costs under $40. Something normally has to give somewhere, so I was bracing for a cheaper feel or, at the very least, the sort of rattly buttons I normally deal with when looking at budget pads and retro handhelds. Apparently, Gulikit had other ideas, though, as the Elves 2 Pro feels ridiculously premium and dodges any of the usual hallmarks of a cheap accessory.

For starters, it any sense of hollowness with a solid body with decent weight. That could be due to the fact that it’s packing a lot of tech into a classic-sized shell, but the result is a remarkable sense of sturdiness. That same textured finish of the d-pad also applies to the entire body and buttons, again lending to the surprisingly premium feel that puts even expensive controllers to shame.

Rattly buttons aren’t an instant quality issue, but I do like to shake pads close to my ear as a sort of initial test. Getting the Elves 2 Pro to make any sort of sound is almost impossible, as all its buttons and triggers follow really tight tolerances that mean they fit like a glove. It achieves that without falling into any friction or jamming trappings, which again is just impressive at this sort of price point.

Gulikit has practically whipped up a souped-up Sega controller with an unrivalled sense of quality. But, while its near-perfect disc d-pad, pleasingly tactile face buttons, and click shoulders are all a perfect match for 16-bit era games, it’s got bigger, modern ambitions. You see, you’re also getting a set of hall-effect symmetrical thumbsticks at the bottom of the pad, and frankly, I’m impressed they managed to fit them in.

Excels at 2D, more than up for 3D

Okay, before you start shouting at me on behalf of your palms, I’ll say you should outright replace modern controllers with the Elves 2 Pro. Its Sega-style boomerang shape caters more to old school aesthetics than ergonomics, and the inherent lack of grips means that your comfort mileage could vary when playing anything with the dual analogue sticks.

You know what, though? I honestly think the Elves 2 Pro fits in the hands nicely despite its antiquated shape. I’ve had zero issues playing through my PlayStation and N64 back catalogue using this pad, and even PS2 and GameCube games feel just fine. I can’t speak for every player out there since different designs can trigger hand cramps in different folks, but its smooth, rounded edges and subtle back curves mean it isn’t instantly offensive when playing more involved 3D romps.

The thumbsticks themselves are full-size, which helps prevent that off-putting feeling that you’re putting pressure on them. That’s something I struggled with when testing the Retro-bit Saturn Pro controller, but increasing the surface area helps alleviate that and keep things feeling balanced. This is something that can matter more in different genres, like intense first-person shooters that require a lot of movement and trigger work, but the Elves 2 Pro isn’t really the pad for that specific job.

Don’t get me wrong, earlier fps games will work a treat on the Elves 2 Pro, especially if we’re talking about PS2-era games that use digital triggers. The instant actuation is going to feel familiar, but the presses will still add downward pressure with no extended grips to support. That’s if and when this controller will start to feel uncomfortable in the hands, but the only way to really resolve that with this design is to turn it into the cursed PS3 boomerang prototype that made the rounds in the mid 2000s.

One controller (almost) fits all

The massive basket of original and cursed third-party retro controllers in my room serves as my gamepad testing credentials. That is to say, I’ve used just about every pad out there, and if there’s one thing that’s taught me, it's that there isn’t a single option that will suit every console. At least, that’s what I thought before trying the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro, and honestly? Its design helps it serve across years of classic systems without feeling out of place.

Again, I’m not saying the Elves 2 Pro should replace either your original controllers or dedicated modern alternatives. What it can do is serve as a once-and-done solution if you’d prefer to use one pad or even have a player two option on standby that can feel like it’s made for the job. If you’re just getting into collecting old consoles, chances are that you’ll find some without their matching gamepads, too, and Gulikit’s accessory is a good substitute that can cost you less in the long run.

That brings me back nicely to the retro receiver situation, as you’re going to need them to use the Elves 2 Pro as a retro controller. Using the handy, dandy power of Bluetooth, you can pair almost every pad to your original consoles, and this is what helps Gulikit’s controller excel at being an all-rounder.

To test whether the Elves 2 Pro can actually act like a controller chameleon, I paired it with 8Bitdo Retro Receivers for the SNES, Genesis, and PS1/PS2, while using Blueretro wireless adapters for the N64 and GameCube. I’ve actually already covered the Sega side of things with my 8Bitdo M30 review and compared Gulikit’s Bluetooth pad with that 2.4GHz mode, but I was keen to see how it fares across multiple platforms.

Spoiler, but Gulikit’s pad feels exceptional no matter the console, and that’s a mean feat. Its strengths certainly lie with the 16-bit era systems, particularly the SNES, as it has the right button layout, but fits perfectly with the Genesis/Mega Drive if you’re not fussed about using Sega’s 3/6-button arrangement. Whether or not that extends to the Saturn depends on whether you’ve got anything against shoulder buttons in fighting games, as that will change the way you play a chunk of that system’s library.

On the subject of the Saturn, the sticks help the Elves 2 Pro rival Retro-Bit’s Pro controller since it can act like a 3D Control Pad. I’ve sadly not got a Retro Receiver for Sega’s PS1 rival yet, so that other pad’s claim to the throne is safe for now. Even if Gulikit’s pad does excel when it comes to feel and build quality, some of you might prefer to stick with 2.4GHz if you’re primarily playing the system’s legacy of fighting games, as that will ensure minimal wireless latency.

One feature that may impact those of you looking for a comprehensive GameCube pad is its digital-only triggers. While you could easily still use the Elves 2 Pro for Ninty’s 2000s system across most of its library, a select few releases like Super Mario Sunshine use analogue inputs for mechanics. The plumber’s second 3D outing isn’t unplayable using digital inputs by any means, but you won’t be able to run and spray water at the same time, which makes chasing your imposter self and other specific scenarios more challenging.

Otherwise, the Elves 2 Pro really provides you with everything you could need from a controller across all platforms. I was pretty impressed with how natural the pad felt, even when jumping from Sonic 2 on the Sega Mega Drive and A Link to the Past on SNES to PS2 horror romps like Silent Hill 2, and I could easily see myself using the controller for plenty of other games. The setup simply works regardless of genre, and that’s impressive given that even first-party pads like the DualShock aren’t great for everything.

A travel companion for contemporary systems

The Elves 2 Pro’s design means it's naturally great for the oldies, but it’s very much still a modern Bluetooth controller. The flatter, retro-style body admittedly means it’s at a disadvantage compared to ergonomic-focused options out there, especially if you’re playing something intense that activates your death grip. At the same time, the inherently low-profile nature of Gulikit’s cointender means it’s actually an extremely travel-friendly option, and that’s helped it become my default for Steam Deck OLED and Switch 2.

Gulikit’s retro getup laughs in the face of gamepads trying to be as flat as possible for travel. Rather than following in the footsteps of low-profile options like the 8Bitdo Lite 2, the Elves 2 Pro uses its classic design cues to aid portability, with the concave d-pad and button bowls helping reduce overall height while keeping everything full-size. Sure, the pad does still compromise a little by avoiding proper back grips or longer analogue triggers, but hey, I’ll take that over a flat slab with zero curves.

Even when placed in the included protective plastic case, there’s really not much bulk to the Elves 2 Pro. Its compact nature means it’s going to fit nicely into a backpack, pouches, or even spare compartments in your gaming handheld case, all while still boasting full sticks and buttons. You only need to look at the Retro-Bit Sega Saturn Pro controller to see what the alternative is, and you won’t find many pads this size that don’t completely flatten the body or use Joy-Con sticks to minimise girth.

Elf-like stamina

Bluetooth controllers like to guzzle power, but the Elves 2 Pro lasts for a bit longer than the average pad. Throughout testing, I found that I’d get just over 20 hours out of the controller before having to give it a charge, and that figure didn’t really budge when playing games with more rumble. In other words, you’re looking at the same runtime whether you’re using a 16-bit console, a PS2, or even the Nintendo Switch 2.

What’s more surprising is the Elves 2 Pro’s ability to hold onto a charge. I’ve been busy lately testing other controllers, so Gulikit’s pad has been sitting in my backpack for around two months. Yet, upon retrieving it and diving into a bunch of games, I still ended up getting around 18 hours of playtime, meaning it lost next to no capacity since the last time I plugged it in.

That contributes to the idea that this is an excellent travel controller, but I’d argue it also backs up its claim to the retro gamepad throne. If you opt for this pad exclusively for your old consoles, you can rest assured that it will still have plenty of juice even if you don’t hop into your classic backlog for a while.

Marvellous on-board settings

Bang smack in the centre of the Elves 2 Pro is a settings button, and there’s every chance some players will completely ignore it. You won’t run into any issues if you do, but leveraging its abilities can help you adjust everything from rumble type to thumbstick sensitivity and deadzone parameters, saving you from going anywhere near any PC software.

This is a pretty fantastic feature if you’re steering clear of modern tech, as it means you’ll still be able to make on-the-fly adjustments. Some options, like switching from rotary style rumble to HD haptics, will admittedly matter more if you’re using a Switch 2, but simple touches like being able to swap the ABXY buttons or switch from eight to four directions to enhance accuracy in some classics are ridiculously useful.

At the same time, actually activating the settings means keeping note of specific shortcuts. For the most part, they’re pretty intuitive, involving pressing the middle cog button and the input you want to swap or toggle, which is then confirmed with a vibration pulse. Still, you might find yourself in a scenario where you have a specific setting on, but don’t realise until it impacts your gameplay, and there are no indicator lights or symbols to show when something is activated. This isn’t a biggie, but worth keeping in mind if you want an extremely simplistic pad.

Should you pick up the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro

Gulikit has struck gamepad gold with its Sega-inspired design and Bluetooth functionality, and that helps the Elves 2 Pro stand as the best retro controller in terms of versatility. It’s the option to go for overall if you want a single pad for multiple systems, and the layout is going to feel surprisingly right across most systems, old and new.

At the same time, the Elves 2 Pro only makes sense as a retro controller if you’d rather avoid buying several separate gamepads. My pick for it being the “best overall” is based on the idea of investing in Retro Receivers and wireless adapters for each console you own, rather than buying a whole new pad, and while some of those accessories are pretty affordable by comparison, you might not see the point in spending over $20 on some adapters when you could spend a bit more and buy a specialized 2.4Ghz option instead.

There are certainly plenty of reasons to opt for the latter, especially since models like the Retro Fighters StrikerDC and 8Bitdo N64 controller boast specific button shapes, layouts, and single thumbstick configurations that will feel more “right” for Dreamcast and N64 gameplay, respectively. Still, that only matters if you’re especially used to using the originals, as the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro otherwise provides you with every input you could possibly need for any system, with the exception being analogue triggers.

The TLDR here is that if you’re into the idea of using one great controller with every retro console you own, and you’re willing to buy separate adapters, go for the Elves 2 Pro. If you’re sceptical about Bluetooth latency or care about using authentic layouts, then you’ll want to continue picking up separate wireless pads or just stick with your trusty wired accessories. All three preferences are absolutely valid, but Gulikit’s contender does excel as both a once-and-done, versatile option and an excellent travel companion for modern play.

Looking to play classic capers on the go? Swing by the best retro handhelds for emulation gadgets and more.

Have you ever tried to fit a Nintendo GameCube in your pocket? I weirdly have, and the fact that there's now a DIY version of the retro console that's smaller than the system's tiny disks makes me think others have too.

I'll explain my weird 11-year-old mindset in a moment, but first, let me introduce you to the Nintendo Kawaii. In a new Macho Nacho Productions video, retro enthusiast Tito covers the ins and outs of what is a miniaturized Wii designed to run GameCube games on something that's only 3.34 inches from corner to corner. That's practically around half the size of the average smartphone, not to mention it's just over half an inch thick.

Enthusiasts have been dreaming small when it comes to Wii hardware for a while, but modders YveltalGriffin and WeskMods take things a step further with the Kawaii. The keychain GameCube console uses what's known as an "Omega trim" to reduce the Wii motherboard down to its essential chips. We're talking about retaining only enough PCB to keep the custom IBM PowerPC CPU and an ATI graphics chip working, which means other features have to be relocated.

Thankfully, Yveltal has cooked up another mod dubbed the "AVE Flex" that moves the video output chip so it can be sandwiched under the reduced motherboard. A similar approach is used to relocate the NAND memory chip to the underside of the board, while a custom overlay board called "Thunder Volt" reduces voltages to aid thermals while providing an alternative power solution to the original external brick.

Naturally, reducing a Wii to a 2.36-inch square means moving things like the GameCube controller ports. To keep things comically compacted, the Kawaii uses an additional tiny dock with ports on the front and 3.5mm breakout connectors for composite and component video and USB-C for power. Yes, that means you'll need to figure out how to connect the retro console to your modern TV or monitor, but the lack of HDMI is completely understandable given the setup's size.

I know some of you will think an additional dock is cheating, but the Kawaii is still mind-blowingly compact, given it's running GameCube games via RVLoader. It stores the games on an internal microSD card, which is slightly awkward to get to, but that's hardly a biggie considering you can put your entire library on the small brick with passive cooling.

On that note, Tito does say that the Kawaii will turn off after 20 minutes to prevent overheating, but you can use a small fan to keep things cool. I suspect that will come down to the room temperatures you're playing in, too, so I suspect that my chilly house in Scotland will actually be a good thing this time around.

Keep in mind, this is more of an ambitious passion project rather than something everyone will be doing. Trimming the Wii motherboard down this much makes adding HDMI to the N64 look like child's play, so you'll need some serious DIY skills to put together a Kawaii from scratch. Some of the cons, like the passive cooling only working for around 20 minutes and the hard-to-reach internal microSD card slot, might also put you off trying the mini GameCube yet, but otherwise, this almost looks like a finished product.

If you do fancy having a crack at the Kawaii project, all the additional parts are available at Yvetal's online store. The blue metal shell featured in the Macho Nacho Productions video is by Ding, so you check that out over at the project's Bitbuild page if you're in love with the laser etching and Anodized design.

This project might feel impractical, but it really speaks to me as someone who used to fully use the GameCube's handle for transport. As previously mentioned, I once tried to shove the console into my oversized jacket pocket to shield it from snow while walking to a friend's house to play Smash Bros, and the fact the Kawaii packs what was once a full backpack's worth of gear into something coaster-sized makes me feel a certain way.

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An official Lego Sega Genesis retro console set is on the way, and I'm floored by the cost of this thing. Or rather, how cheap it is; the kit is just $40, or £35 if you're based in the UK.

Due to launch on June 1, 2026, the Lego Sega Genesis Console is a miniature version of the iconic retro system. It clocks in at 479 pieces and comes with two controllers, scaled to fit with the machine itself. If you remember the system by a different name, you can also swap out the name plate for the UK/Japanese equivalent of "Mega Drive." That means it's already challenging a few of the best Lego sets in terms of attention to detail.

It looks as though the Sega/Nintendo console wars are about to reignite, though, because this Lego Genesis console has ever so slightly more pieces than the Lego Game Boy... all while costing less. To be precise, it's rocking 479 pieces at $40, compared to the Game Boy's 421 pieces at $60. Talk about doing what Ninten-don't.

Although we're looking at Lego's first full Genesis console set, this isn't the first time the company has tackled Sega's beloved retro system. It reproduced the Genesis controller last year (which featured a similar removable faceplate that showed off a Sonic level underneath), and Lego Sonic the Hedgehog Green Hill Zone is laced with references to the Sega hardware.

Personally, I'm really keen on the size and price of this thing. Indeed, I would love to see more models in this vein. Yes, the old NES kit (with 'working' CRT TV) was great, and the Lego Atari 2600 was masterfully done. But both are expensive enough to be priced out of many fans' hands. Although this smaller, cheaper alternative doesn't boast the same level of detail, it's rocking a much more palatable cost. Give me PS1 and SNES models in the same style, please!

What do you think of the model? Shout about it in the comments below.

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We've finally got an Anbernic RG Rotate price, and I'm hyped to report it's actually affordable. The rotational retro handheld that doubles up as an iPod-inspired MP3 player will start at $87.99, accompanied by a premium metal version for $107.99 that boasts the same respectable specs.

The Anbernic RG Rotate pricing was initially shared with Retrododo, but the gaming handheld maker has also posted a new unboxing video outlining full specs. Both the plastic "Polar Black" and the aluminium alloy "Aurora Silver" versions are packing the same Unisoc Tiger T618 Octa-core chipset with Mali G52 graphics, 3GB RAM, and 32GB storage, and a 3.5-inch 720p display.

Basically, there is no "pro" version of the RG Rotate, but both should run everything up to the PS1 without a sweat. On paper, the APU should provide emulation performance that slots somewhere between the Anbernic RG35XXSP and RG Cube, rivalling the likes of the Retroid Pocket Flip with middle-ground capabilities. That should translate to a device that can run some GameCube and PS2 releases, provided you avoid the more demanding romps.

Let's be real, though: the RG Rotate is looking to wrangle more casual players who miss the glory days of offline MP3 players. Specifically, Anbernic's latest handheld looks like an oversized iPod Nano 4th Generation, and while the pivoting GBA SP-style buttons are neat, their flat design means they really cater towards lighter 2D gaming.

The unfortunate part is that, even as a music player, the RG Rotate keeps things casual. This Android device isn't going to rival higher-end DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters) since it's missing a 3.5mm jack, meaning you'll have to use USB-C or Bluetooth headphones.

Don't get me wrong, I still think around $100 is great for a capable retro handheld with Android abilities and a touchscreen, but the missing headphone jack means it's not an ideal player. Touches like the cassette animation will draw some of you in, and I'm admittedly also a sucker for that sort of thing. However, if that's literally the only thing drawing you to Anbernic's square gadget, you might want to consider something like the FiiO Echo Mini since it's only $59.99 and looks more like a classic Walkman with lossless playback support and a double helping of headphone jacks.

Even if the RG Rotate doesn't end up trading blows with the best, it's still great to see Anbernic releasing affordable, quirky portables, given the current climate. The $100 price point feels like Goldilocks "just right" porridge to me, and even though not including a headphone jack feels absurd, I'd still hook the gadget on my belt as a semi-fashionable offline music solution for when heading out for a day away from the internet.

I'll try my best to review the Anbernic RG Rotate ahead of its May 11 release date, but even if it takes me a bit longer, you'll be hearing more from me about this square portable in the coming weeks.

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Looking for more ways to play the classics? Swing by the best retro consoles for FPGA remakes and more.

I can't say I had the C64 and ZX Spectrum making grand returns as clamshell retro handhelds on my bingo card, but that's exactly what Blaze and Retro Games Ltd are planning. The minds behind the Evercade and the makers of systems like the Atari 400 Mini are turning the microcomputers into something that effectively looks like a 3DS, and I'm obviously here for it.

Dubbed "THE64 Handheld" and "The Spectrum Handheld", Blaze and Retro Games Ltd's collaboration takes the existing plug-and-play systems and, well, makes them portable (cheers, Time Extension). Both come armed with a 4.3-inch 800x480 IPS high-resolution display, 25 built-in games, a micro SD card slot for running your own backups, and getups that pay homage to each OG microcomputer.

Both versions wield a d-pad not unlike the upcoming Evercade Nexus, and the face buttons look pretty similar, too. Don't sweat, though; you're getting a nifty top row of function keys to help with micromputer compatibility, or you can hook up your own keyboard using a side USB-A port.

Both handhelds are available to pre-order now for £109.99 at Blaze's Funstock UK site, but there's no sign of US listings yet. The price is slightly hard to swallow since the C64 Mini was previously readily available for around $50, and even the new black version is $79.99 at Amazon. That's perhaps a silly comparison since these two portables have built-in screens, meaning they can serve as standalone machines for your desk.

Turning the C64 and Spectrum into clamshells naturally makes them look like a Nintendo 3D. But, I'd argue they feel more like fictional microcomputer gadgets you'd see in a '90s anime, or like someone has made a cyber deck that pays homage to the two 40-year-old machines. Regardless, while I would have preferred both to come with HDMI output, the idea of angling the display and playing 8-bit oddities on a truly "micro" computer really speaks to me, and the aesthetic really helps set a specific vibe.

If you're really into the idea of maining a clamshell that looks like an old computer, there are also collector's editions that come with matching cases and exclusive issues of Crash and Zzap!64. Those will set you back £129.99, but you'll need to be quick to grab them since they're limited to 2,000 units.

What you're more or less playing for here is extremely authentic designs based on the OG microcomputer, 25 licensed games, and a device that's purpose-built to run both C64 and Spectrum classics. Out of the two, the former beige handheld appeals to my old school tastes, as it'll look sick on a desk, even if the Commodore 64 Ultimate makes for a more hardware-accurate way to play. The ZX Spectrum version is pretty too, since it wears the old rainbow detailing, but it sort of looks like a cheaper version of the existing Vega+.

Of course, if you're not remotely a sucker for old aesthetics and prefer the DIY approach, you could just grab something like the Anbernic RG DS. It's going to provide you with clamshell-shaped emulation for $129.98, albeit on a less visually appealing device.

These new handhelds won't have any trouble finding their audience, and while there are plenty of ways to play C64 and ZX Spectrum, I'm still hyped for both to land this October. Ideally, this will be the start of a beautiful line of clamshell microcomputers in the same vein as the Super Pocket, with themed systems being regularly released with a bunch of games included.

Yes, I am waiting for someone to give the MSX a remake, so Blaze and Retro Games Ltd better be listening.

• C64 consoles at Amazon
• ZX Spectrum gadgets at Amazon

Searching for more ways to play the classics? Swing by the best retro consoles for FPGA remakes, emulation systems, and more.