Latest articles by Phil Hayton
"Pays tribute to one of the most extraordinary consoles of the 1980s" - the Vectrex Mini kickstarter is now live, and I still can't believe it's a real thing
News The Vectrex Mini Kickstarter is now live, and the tiny retro console remake has already smashed its pledge goal by well over 300%.
My favorite new N64 controller just dropped to its lowest price, and it's not just for the upcoming Analogue 3D
Deals 8Bitdo's N64 controller for the Analogue 3D is back under $30, and I'd jump on the new record low ieven if you haven't got the 4K retro console pre-ordered.
Best retro handheld 2025: my portable picks for playing the classics
Features Here are the best retro handheld options for playing classic games in 2025, including emulation devices, Game Boy clones, and portables with cartridge support.
The best gaming PC 2025: Find your perfect pre-built powerhouse
Buying guide We're rounding up all the best gaming PCs on the market from budget builds to higher-end rigs ready for the next generation of gaming.
Super Pocket review - "the budget gaming handheld I’ve been waiting for"
Review The Super Pocket is a fantastic, compact retro handheld with an impressively low price tag, and its existence elevates the existing Evercade ecosystem.
Best gaming desk 2025: all the surfaces I'd use for PC and console setups
Buying guide Here's a rundown of the best gaming desks on the market right now, including premium and and budget-friendly options for work and play.
The Hyperkin Retron GX isn't my dream PC Engine remake, but I'd still grab it for under $80
Deals The Hyperkin Retron GX is now under $80, and while it isn't perfect, it's actually the cheapest retro console for playing physical PC Engine games right now.
The Amiga A1200 remake officially arrives in June 2026, but I'm starting to worry about modern retro console pricing
News Retro Games Ltd just unveiled its Amiga A1200 remake, and while it offers HDMI connectivity and a working keyboard, it's a pretty pricey plug-and-play.
The upcoming G'AIM'E Time Crisis light gun console is now up for pre-order, and my trigger fingers are twitching with excitement
You can now pre-order the G'AIM'E Time Crisis Lightgun system, and the retro console could help you play one of the greatest arcade shooters ever for under $100.
For under $250, I'd pick up this retro Apple Mac-inspired mini PC over a handheld
Deals The Ayaneo Mini PC AM01 is a fantastic tiny rig that'll save you from using a more expensive docked handheld to play lighter PC adventures and retro games.
Baseus 6-in-1 Docking Station review: “my new favorite Steam Deck dock”
Review The Baseus 6-in-1 Docking Station is more than just a Steam Deck dock, and its adjustable cradle makes it one of the best handheld gaming PC accessories around.
Evercade Alpha review: “an excellent cartridge solution to my arcade problems”
Review The Evercade Alpha is a fantastic at-home arcade machine for players looking to play a variety of games, and the Street Fighter version is a must have for fans.
One of the few third-party Switch 2 docks that works is back down in price, but I'm still furious at Nintendo
Deal The only third-party Switch 2 dock I've tested that works is back under $25, and it's worth grabbing for the handheld if you need something travel-friendly.
"The most simple, yet effective way to keep your setup effortlessly neat" - Meet the new Secretlab Magnus model that could finally destroy the spaghetti monster under my desk
News Secretlab just unveiled the Magnus Evo, a new gaming desk that pairs "purposeful features that do all the organization for you" with standing functionality.
Best monitor for Xbox Series X 2025
Buying Guide Here are the best monitors for Xbox Series X right that'll pair nicely with Microsoft's console, whether you're on a budget or looking for something premium.
PlayStation Portal review: “I wish I could take this one trick pony outside”
Review The PlayStation Portal is a reliable PS5 remote player, it's lack of functionality and gaming handheld features make it a portable one trick pony.
Modretro Chromatic review: "a remarkable modern Game Boy that'll outlive my original"
Review The Modretro Chromatic is a beautiful Game Boy Color homage that uses accurate FPGA tech and premium perks to give the classic handheld a 2024 glow up.
The Analogue 3D might be delayed, but I can confirm its 8Bitdo N64 controller is worth the hype
Review The 8Bitdo N64 Bluetooth Controller for Analogue 3D is a fantastic modern Nintendo 64 gamepad that blends authentic design with contemporary comfort.
Zotac Zone review: “a promising Steam Deck OLED rival”
Review The Zotac Zone is a punchy gaming handheld with pro-controller elements, an AMOLED display, and competitive performance, but its price is an Achilles heel.
"It really was Asus, because this is their hardware" - I feel like Microsoft is pinning the ROG Xbox Ally X's $1,000 price tag on its creator
News Microsoft has revealed that the $1,000 for the ROG Xbox Ally X is the result of Asus' "insight into the market," and "what people want" from a gaming handheld.
"The system that sparked a console war!" - I can't believe Atari is bringing Intellivision back from the dead
News Atari just announced the Intellivision Sprint, a remake of the iconic woodgrain '80s console with HDMI output, wireless controllers, and 45 built-in games.
How to choose a gaming handheld (by someone who tests the latest portables)
Guides Here's a rundown on how to choose a gaming handheld, including tips on exploring games you want to play, setting a budget, and picking specific features.
Where to buy the ROG Xbox Ally: live stock updates for the new handheld PC
News Here's where to buy the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds when the handheld launches today, including live stock updates, recommended retailers, and buying advice.
