Final Fantasy 9 isn't a PS2 game, but I've just noticed my PS2 memory card has a Final Fantasy save that looks like it has the wrong text. It's actually taken me 20 years to realise that the tiny low-res icon looks like it belongs to the earlier PS1 RPG, and there's a very silly reason why it looks that way.

You see, I've been messing around with an upscaler that solves jittery PS2 visuals using motion-adaptive interlacing. It'll also scale up any retro console that supports RGB output, but it's the systems that rely on interlaced graphics that benefit most from the gizmo.

While the GBS-C's motion-adaptive deinterlacing does an excellent job weaving separated horizontal fields together into a static frame, it's far from perfect. For the most part, you won't notice anything out of sorts, but after sharing a quick photo of my old PS2 memory card screen running through the upscaler, I received comments asking, "What's with the Final Fantasy "9" save icon?"

I originally figured the internet at large was getting its Final Fantasy roman numerals mixed up, but soon realised my old save really looks like it says "Final Fantasy IX" over the villainous Judge Gabranth sprite. Trust me when I say I squinted at the tiny icon for a solid 10 minutes on my actual display rather than through my hastily snapped photo, and I'm pretty certain the pixels read "IX" rather than "XII."

I'll admit, I started to get excited that Square Enix had somehow managed to typo its Final Fantasy 12 save icon art, or that there was perhaps another more interesting developmental reason for the blip. That was before I realized this was very likely a symptom tied to deinterlacing a low-resolution icon, and it all ties back to the way low-res CRTs used to work.

Here's the thing: the text on the Final Fantasy 12 logo on the memory card grid isn't meant to be legible. If you really want to get a good look at it, you can press X and bring up the full rotating 3D rendered model along with the copy and delete menu. What you're actually seeing before that is a version compressed to very few pixels that, when displayed on a CRT at the mercy of interlacing, pixel bleed, and phosphor glow, still vaguely looks like "Final Fantasy XII" at a normal distance.

When you take that same icon, blow it up on a modern screen using nearest-neighbour upscaling and deinterlacing techniques, you end up with distorted pixels. It just so happens that, in the case of Final Fantasy 12, it warps its roman numerals to look like they belong to a different game in the series, which serves as an eye-catching example of an upscaling caveat.

Using a "line doubler" like the OSSC stands a better chance of accurately representing even the lowest pixel text on the PS2, but you still end up with something that doesn't read like the full-resolution text. I suspect Bob de-interlacing still distorts the pixels in the same way regardless, changing their alignment to a completely different numeral, but I can't speak for more expensive FPGA-powered devices by the likes of RetroTink.

Big whoop, I hear you cry. Why should you remotely care about a few distorted pixels on an old PS2 memory card screen? I'll admit that I don't think this is a reason not to upscale your PlayStation 2, but I want to record the incident so no one gets the wrong idea.

I previously went searching to see if anyone had reported their Final Fantasy 12 PS2 memory card save showing the wrong thumbnail text, just in case there was a more elaborate reason. Immediately, I was rushed with Google AI claims that it's likely a "placeholder left over from development," which isn't remotely the case.

Therefore, this is me taking the opportunity to pre-empt any weird theories on why it looks like the PS2 memory card icon reads "Final Fantasy IX", as all it takes is someone to regurgitate AI nonsense to circulate falsified history. At the same time, this does help highlight how retro console upscaling technology works and why it will struggle to provide the exact same look as an old CRT TV, and while quirks like this aren't remotely a biggie, it could influence your setup plans.

• PS2 memory cards at Amazon
• Retro upscalers at Amazon

Swing by the best retro handhelds for portable emulators you can take on your travels.

It feels like nothing you can play games on is safe from price hikes right now, and that includes previously affordable retro handhelds. In fact, the demanding AI data centre demons released from the Pandora's Box ravaging RAM prices are also biting at Qualcomm's heels, and portable console brands like Retroid are already firing metaphorical flares.

Qualcomm chips are the beating heart of many of the best retro handheld newcomers scheduled for 2026. Existing popular portables, like the Ayn Thor and Retroid Pocket 5, are also powered by Snapdragon 865 and 8 Gen 2 SoCs, so plans to "raise prices by double digits" shared by Bloomberg are an undeniable omen.

Four days on from that original report, and Retroid has already signalled that its new Nova handheld could be impacted. In an update posted to X, the portable console maker actually kicks off with some good news, announcing that the black version starts shipping tomorrow. The company further clarifies launch plans, explaining that the 16-bit, Crystal, GameCube, Ice Blue, Clear, Purple, and Watermelon models will be on a 1-2 day rotation, and a dedicated assembly line means the "current backlog should be gone within three weeks."

The last thing the retro handheld scene needs is more component hikes, as memory prices are already causing a ruckus. Ayaneo has already had to adjust pricing on its Pocket models, and its handheld gaming PCs now cost up to and beyond $4,000. Yes, the latter is the same situation even the big dogs like Valve find themselves in with hardware like the Steam Machine, but it feels like the walls are narrowing in on affordable, mobile-based options.

Even the excellently priced Super Pocket has been hit with a price increase, which is surprising given the Evercade console is armed with a mere 256MB RAM and a low-spec Cortex-A7 quad-core chipset. It's becoming evidently clear that's its not just devices using the components being gobbled by the AI industry falling victim to "RAMageddon"; it's actually just anything that uses parts made in a fab or foundry, as TSMC, Intel, Samsung, and all the other fabrication giants now have new, multi-billion-dollar priorities.

That's not to say new retro handhelds will completely come to a halt in 2026, as newbies like the Anbernic RG SP and Ayaneo GBA clone are still inbound, and the Retroid Nova is rolling out to players who pre-ordered. In the current climate, not taking prices for granted and picking up portables when you can seems to be the way to go, even if that means paying slightly more than previous years.

• More retro handhelds at Amazon
• More retro consoles at Amazon

Swing by the best retro consoles for classic remakes and emulation machines.

I've been trying to perfect my PS2 setup for years now, but there's been one modern upscaler symptom haunting my favorite 2000s outings. While Sony's iconic sequel system looks perfectly fine on an old CRT TV, most of the console's releases rely on interlaced graphics that don't play nice with new screens. The result is jittery visuals that just look plain weird compared to 20 years ago, and solutions used to be far too pricey.

For a while now, I've had an OSSC at the heart of my retro console setup. FYI, that stands for Open Source Scan Converter, and I fully believe it's one of the top upscalers out there that comes with minimal caveats, and that's in part because it's a "line doubler" that multiplies horizontal pixel rows to ramp up resolutions.

That approach introduces practically no lag since it's processing visuals line by line, not unlike a CRT. Unfortunately, my relationship with the OSSC has its demons, as its Bob deinterlacing techniques fail to solve my flickery woes. The good news is that I've found a side upscaler that is specifically great for PS2 games, even if I won't be leaving the OSSC for it.

The other upscaler in my current affair is none other than the GBS Control (GBS-C for short), an open-source HDMI converter that started life as a DIY kit. It's effectively another doohickey that will allow you to connect retro consoles to modern TVs or monitors, and it boasts specific abilities that give it an edge when dealing with pesky interlaced graphics.

Interlacing is a tricksy workaround that's been used since the dawn of television sets, and it was originally developed to combat broadcast bandwidth. The technique essentially splits a frame into odd and even fields, then displays both rapidly on screen.

If you caught my deep dive on retro console scanlines, the same idea of lines appearing on screen so fast that your eye sees a completed frame applies, but rather than drawing each horizontal row progressively, interlacing will technically scan odd fields then even to make a perceivable full frame.

I should be clear that some PS2 games are compatible with progressive scan, but there are reasons why the console didn't default to 480p. The biggest is that most consumer CRT TVs in the early 2000s tapped out at 240p or 480i (576i in PAL regions like the UK and Australia), so sticking with interlaced visuals helped avoid compatibility issues. It also helped save on memory, which in turn enabled developers to work with enhanced textures and high-detail assets.

CRT TVs weren't immune to the intrinsic flicker on interlaced graphics, but it was less notable on a tube screen. That's largely thanks to the way phosphors gradually fade on screen, which helped soften the rapid interlacing of horizontal rows in conjunction with the display's shadow mask/apperture grille layer and pixel bleeding. If you take those same visuals and let deinterlacing convert them into solid frames, though, the jitter is extremely visible.

The main issue with standard deinterlacing techniques today is that it doesn't remedy the previous masked symptoms. While upscalers like the OSSC run circles around native TV solutions by eliminating lag, blurriness, and ghosting tied to using algorithms that weave horizontal lines together, "bob" deinterlacing emphasises the way interlacing inherently works.

To actually make a single frame, Bob takes even horizontal pixels and uses them to fill the odd interlaced lines and vice versa. That results in a pixel shift effect with every frame that switches pixel positions, leading to a repeated bobbing effect tied to the respective refresh rate. Simply put, PS2 games running at 60Hz will switch back and forth from odd and even rows 60 times a second, and that's the flicker you'll see on things like text and background textures.

Enter motion-adaptive deinterlacing, a technique that can actively detect if pixels are changing. It will still use the old weave approach with odd and even lines with no movement, while applying Bob algorithms to anything with movement. It's a "best of both worlds" solution that ditches the jitter while embracing the sharpness, low latency, and smoothness of Bob for when fast-paced movement is most likely to cause artifacts.

Here lies the GBS-C's specific PS2 superpower, as unlike the OSSC, it can apply motion-adaptive techniques to interlaced signals. Keep in mind I've been using the latter line doubler with gaming monitors and TVs for years now, so I'm well used to the flicker of Bob deinterlacing, especially when static menus and background textures are present. Therefore, when I clapped my eyes on the GBS-C's algorithms in action, I was pretty blown away.

I had almost gotten used to the janky jitter when playing some of my go-to PS2 romps, and I'll admit that the symptoms are sometimes subtle. For instance, in Silent Hill 2, the chaotic jiggle largely applies to background elements, like brick wall textures and static objects that calm down when James is running around. Seeing the lines on the pavement or building masonry shake around does hamper efforts to soak in the survival horror's eerie atmosphere, though, and it's easy to spot the difference with motion adaptive interlacing applied.

Having access to motion adaptive upscaling is absolutely a sole reason to grab a GBS-C, especially if your eyeballs have already wrestled with more aggressive PS2 examples like Dead or Alive 2. However, it also happens to be an impressive upscaler in its own right, offering up a wide array of settings you can control via built-in screen or a more expansive Wi-Fi menu.

The latter was a bit of a pain to get up and running, as you have to use the GBS-C as a hotspot then point it towards your home connection. Once you've got that sorted, however, you'll have access to vital settings like motion adaptive upscaling, resolution presets up to 1080p, and plenty of picture control dials. There's even a pretty in-depth dev mode that provides access to even more bells and whistles if you're really nerdy about retro console outputs.

At the same time, if my time using the GBS-C has taught me anything so far, it's that it lacks the same visual punch as the OSSC. Line doubling provides far sharper results than a "traditional" frame buffer device, as multiplying raw pixel rows simply looks better than the softer Bilinear Scaling used by the GBS-C.

I'm planning to experiment with using both the OSSC and GBS-C in conjunction, as it could be the perfect solution for my PS2 setup specifically. I'm wary that picking up two upscalers isn't remotely cost-effective, though, so if you want sharp line doubling and motion adaptive deinterlacing, it might be worth looking at the pricier OSSC Pro.

What I will say is that the results provided by all these upscalers will fall short compared to the RetroTINK-5X Pro or RetroTINK-4K. Those are two enthusiast-grade options with FPGA chips that will run rings around the GBS-C's motion adaptive upscaling with zero lag and ridiculously sharp visuals. The catch is that they cost between $300 and $750, which will absolutely be out of bounds for a lot of retro enjoyers.

For those of you on a budget, I'd say the GBS-C will provide you with a superior PS2 experience compared to using your TV's native abilities or a cheap upscaler. Just keep in mind that, just like the base OSSC, this gadget exclusively deals in RGB signals via SCART, component, or VGA, so you'll need to use the right cables or convert composite-only consoles like the NES.

Check out the best retro controllers for authentic gamepads with modern perks.

Scanlines! It's a phrase often hurled around the retro gaming space, and one you'll find on your "an enthusiast said I'm playing old games wrong" bingo card. The issue is that while it is indeed a visual effect that can be enabled when using emulators and retro console remakes, they won't always make your shiny new screen look like an old CRT TV, and that could put you off using the effect.

As someone who specializes in connecting retro consoles to modern TVs and monitors while also being a CRT TV enthusiast, there is a big fat myth tied to scanlines. While using an overlay that adds horizontal black gaps can enhance definition and add pixel separation, you won't magically get the same visuals as a tube set. There's way more going on with your old idiot box than that, and understanding those old visuals will help set your expectations.

When testing the best retro consoles today or using the originals, I typically enable scanlines. Adding in horizontal black lines can come with caveats, but for the most part, it will add useful pixel separation that helps sprites and textures look less like blocky blobs on modern displays. But, to help you work out whether you actually care about using the effect, I want to dive into what scanlines actually are and the various ways systems today can mimic an old CRT.

What even is a scanline?

By definition, a "scanline" is a horizontal row of pixels drawn rapidly by an electron beam to make a full CRT TV picture. Yes, your old box would make up a full image within a split second by blasting electrons against a phosphor-coated screen, which made for a very rock 'n' roll way of generating frames.

Unless you've got some really high refresh rate eyeballs, you won't be able to see a CRT actively drawing horizontal lines. In fact, there's every chance that if you grab an old tube set right now and feed it a clean signal that matches its native resolution, you won't even see the distinctive black spaces that are dubbed "scanlines" today. That's because those gaps were more of a symptom rather than a feature, one that just so happened to add some extra pixel separation when gaming.

I own too many CRTs for my own good, ranging from a backbreaking 32-inch Aiwa set to an impossibly small 3.7-inch Sony Trinitron TV. Whether or not you can actually see distinct scanlines on each comes down to the resolution of a retro console, the cable type, and the display's own screen type, as all three can work to make the black space between rows less visible.

Standard Definition used to be, and still techniclly is, 480p, meaning 480 lines drawn horizontally using progressive scan. That's fancy speak for every one of those lines being drawn in order from top to bottom, but that means some trickery is required when using a 240p retro console like the NES, SNES or Sega Genesis.

The workaround involves the CRT filling its 480p screen with 240 rows of pixels by leaving every odd line blank. That results in a full image still being displayed on screen, but with distinctive black spaces between. That quirk is exactly what modern scanline effects attempt to replicate today, but there are other forces at play also messing with the look of raw pixels.

Behind the mask

When letting a CRT TV blast your eyeballs, scanlines likely won't be the first thing you see. If anything, you're more likely to notice the defined pixels that look like separate dots rather than a linear line of squares. What you're actually seeing is the image being drawn behind a metal plate, or "shadow mask", designed to guide electron beams directly to red, green, and blue phosphor dots.

Most consumer CRT TVs use a shadow mask, and it actually provides a distinct look that may distract you from scanlines altogether. The metal plate actually channels the electron beams into a triangle formation, or triad, that can reduce the visibility of direct, horizontal rows, portraying a more staggered pixel look.

Naturally, simply adding in horizontal black lines to retro console visuals on a modern LCD or OLED doesn't quite hit the same CRT notes as a shadow mask screen. Rather than getting that staggered triad color effect that adds pixel definition, you instead get a bolder horizontal effect that won't quite look like an old tube.

At the same time, not every CRT uses the same phosphor plate either. For instance, Sony Trinitron models are heralded for their Aperture Grille technology, which separates phosphors with tiny vertical wires. The idea is that the positioning will only allow the appropriate color through, rather than trying to block more light with a solid mask.

As a result, Trinitron CRT images are brighter, boast better color accuracy, and have enhanced sharpness thanks to the higher-pitch vertical dots. That is to say, there's less of a gap within each vertical stripe compared to using Shadow Mask triad clusters, and that in turn produces a pretty different look in terms of pixel separation.

Effectively, there's way more to making your classic games look like they're on a faux Cathode-Ray Tube. Scanlines are really just one part of a visual symphony that presents old sprites and textures the way their designers intended, rather than a bunch of scaled-up blocky pixels. Knowing that elements like CRT masking techniques, color bleeding, and phosphor positioning will provide different results will ultimately help you achieve the look you're looking for, whether that's based on something from memory or a collectively agreed gold standard.

Modern scanline techniques

It might feel like CRT TVs vanished from gaming setups aeons ago, but in reality, the screen type only properly retired in the late 2000s. That's the point where I noticed LCD panels properly take over the consumer market, and as someone who kept using old consoles with those displays, it became quickly apparent that they were missing a trick when it comes to classic visuals.

I was actually extremely late to the LCD part, having only picked up a budget 720p 28-inch LCD set in 2007 for my Xbox 360. It only took me a couple of months to realise that, while Bioshock looks phenomenal in "HD", consoles like my Sega Mega Drive looked a bit off even when using a clean RGB SCART input.

Naturally, the subpar upscaler in that supermarket brand LCD TV was committing more than just visual atrocities, but my immediate concerns were sparked by pixel separation. I really couldn't jam with Blaze in Streets of Rage looking like a bunch of blocks, and it kickstarted what would be a decade long quest to bring scanlines back to my setup.

I should note that for years, the only way to really inject scanlines back into my favorite games was by way of "modern" retro consoles. Yes, I did experiment with using standalone VGA scanline generators, like the SLG3000, but that was more designed for CRT arcade play rather than mimicking consumer sets. It wouldn't be until 2014 when the Hyperkin Retron 5 arrived on the scene that I'd first get a taste for scanline overlay effects as a feature baked into a system.

The approach with basic modern scanlines is pretty straightforward, as it simply requires adding an overlay of odd or even horizontal black lines over retro console images. That helps provide pixel separation and something that is reminiscent of old CRT TV visuals, and the Retron 5 was one of the first to provide that.

Since then, scanline overlays have matured, but basic implementations still come with the same caveats attached. Firstly, adding horizontal black lines alone isn't really enough to give proper CRT vibes, and scaling-related symptoms like uneven thickness and unadjustable intensity can be distracting. Darkening half the lines on screen also reduces overall image brightness, and depending on your screen, the remaining active pixels might look a bit too dim.

These are issues that still persist with systems like the Hyperkin Retron GX, and even scanlines with some layer of adjustability included in the likes of the Evercade Alpha still aren't super close to a real CRT. That's not to say we aren't seeing progress, though, as HDMI upscalers and FPGA consoles like the Analogue 3D are introducing more elaborate effects that leverage the latest screen tech and add more than just horizontal black lines.

Analogue's 4K N64 specifically proudly provides "display filters" rather than just basic scanlines. Rather than just slapping an overlay on top, the feature is a real-time processing option that weaves in accurate CRT effects that mimic every classic display type. The system includes everything from the look of a Sony Trinitron PVM and BVM sets to consumer-grade tube TVs that use Aperture Grille or Shadow Mask tech.

Better still, the Analogue 3D can now even leverage "advanced HDR" tricks to facilitate the same pixel brightness on new screens. That helps each phosphor look like it's actually firing from an electron gun rather than just being mimicked on an OLED or LCD, and the result is damn convincing.

Analogue isn't the only company going the extra mile with CRT effects, though, as I'm seeing more ways than ever to add more convincing scanlines and masking. The OSSC line doubler I use for most consoles has a wide array of dials for adding in scanlines in real time; the newer OSSC Pro can even enable Shadow Mask and Aperture Grille overlays.

If you'd bring the Analogue 3D's advanced CRT filters to your entire setup, Retrotink also has you covered with its 5X Pro and 4K upscalers. They will make your bank account weep, but on top of providing FPGA-powered upscaling with motion-adaptive deinterlacing, they can also produce the same look as a Sony Trinitron or classic consumer set using similar processing techniques.

I'm fully aware I've been exclusively talking about hardware solutions, but modern emulators can also provide excellent scanline and CRT effects. Frontends like RetroArch include preset shaders for retro console cores, with CRT Royale being a prime example of a shader that can do more than just horizontal lines. Almost every emulation suite today at least has basic filters built-in, so it's worth messing around with those if you exclusively run your own ROMs on a retro handheld or PC.

Sneaking scanlines into your entire setup

I've been routinely asked whether there's a magic solution for adding scanlines to an entire setup. The answer is yes, as I've tested a doohickey that adds CRT scanline effects using HDMI, and it's not as atrocious as you'd think. Naturally, you'll have to use an upscaler or an adapter if you're using retro consoles with analogue output, but once you've got that sorted, it will inject adjustable effects into the pipeline before the image reaches your modern screen.

Of course, the effect produced by the standalone HDMI scanline generator still suffers from those classic caveats mentioned above. However, it includes on-board dials and switches for everything from scanline thickness to aspect ratio and even RGB color adjustment. The cherry on top is being able to switch between odd and even black lines, which will really help get you closer to the look you're after.

Your mileage with a standalone HDMI scanline generator will vary depending on your system of choice and screen. I do think it's worth a look if you can grab one for cheap, though, as it hooked my HDMI-modded N64 up with some much-needed pixel separation (the console's raw signal is pretty messy).

My hope is that by understanding why players rave about scanlines in retro games, you'll have an easier time deciding whether you care about the effect. Simply playing games raw without any overlayers or processing effects added in is completely valid no matter what those pesky enthusiasts shout at you online. That said, if you are craving CRT vibes but don't want to find a real tube set, you'll now know exactly how to go about transforming your modern display into a faux 20+ year old television set.

Swing by the best retro controllers for modern versions of classic console pads.

Last week, Eyepatch Entertainment unveiled their bananas attempt at Super Mario 64 on the 3DO. That initial version was actually pretty impressive, featuring a distinguishable Peach's Castle and even Bob-omb Battlefield, but its Mario spite has been keeping me up at night.

Thankfully, the developer has shared a Super Mario 64 3DO update, and the plumber is looking far less haunted (cheers, Time Extension). In fact, the whole N64 conversion is looking a lot better running on the real retro console hardware, with Eyepatch Entertainment signalling that "real progress" has been made with the project.

"The frame rate is better and worse than last time you saw this," admits the dev before explaining that it "costs time to get the renderer looking better." That creates a time dilemma between working on performance versus fidelity, which feels like the real challenge ahead of Mario 64 on the 3DO specifically.

I'm pretty astounded at what Eyepatch Entertainment has achieved in just a week. Yes, the game still looks jittery, and the dev is clearly still ironing out how the 3D assets are drawn and pulled based on proximity, but it's looking real close to an actual playable conversion of Mario 64. The demonstration even features some classic penguin rescue gameplay, but you thankfully can't yeet the babies off any cliffs right now (that has always upset me.)

Eyepatch Entertainment's new video features both good and bad news for anyone hyped about Mario 64 on anything other than a 64. The first tidbit is that there's also a Sega Saturn version in the works that runs at 60fps, but it's not quite ready to show yet. The part that's a bummer is that, while plenty of players have already asked for an ISO for running on emulators or an actual 3DO, they apparently don't want to invoke Nintendo's wrath.

"I don't think Nintendo, even though this does not really look like Mario 64, would be very happy with me distributing this," the developer caveats. "If it were possible, I would give it away. I don't care if you want to torture yourself with this. But until then, I guess that makes me the number one player in the world at 3DO Mario 64, which I guess someone has to claim."

I need Eyepatch Entertainment to know that I'd happily give myself a migraine playing Mario 64 on the 3DO. It'll likely always be a cursed endeavour, but I'm even more invested now that Mario doesn't look like pixelated creepypasta. At the same time, I get why the dev is wary of the big N, but it would be funny to see it get riled up about its first 3D game replicated for a system that had no chance against the N64.

Swing by the best retro controllers to pair an authentic new pad with your classic console.

Upon catching Anbernic's RG SP teaser, I assumed an old clip had reached my feed. After all, the handheld maker already has two GBA SP clones, so it's reasonable to think it wouldn't have a third stab. It turns out I'm a big idiot, as it is indeed cooking up another model that ditches the previous portable's embedded thumbsticks.

The trailer in question reveals the Anbernic RG SP in all its clamshell glory, but not before highlighting its prior retro handhelds. In a bid not to mask over previous GBA SP clone portables like the Anbernic RG35XXSP from 2024 and its RG34XXSP successor, the teaser presents both in a timeline before revealing what's actually changed.

As I've already spoiled, highlighted improvements actually include taking away a feature, as it's now "stickless for pure nostalgia." The resulting eyeroll almost injured my peepers, but I am actually happy that Anbernic is focused on making something that looks close to a GBA SP.

Contributing to those latter GBA SP clone efforts is a 25% thinner top screen bezel, which should help reduce some of the previous bulk to OG Nintendo handheld levels. The overall profile is 10% slimmer too, so I'm pretty keen to inflict a weird Game Boy Advance Pepsi challenge on my friends.

Just like before, though, modern prevents the Anbernic RG SP from creating a Spider-Man pointing meme scenario. The control panel is still uncanny, largely thanks to the d-pad, four face buttons, and the middle toggle that Ninty original used for brightness, but the side microSD card slot and bottom 3.5mm jack are tells. You've also got a momentary power button on the side instead of a slider and an "R" reset button, not to mention that the cartridge slot is understandably gone.

As for the specs, you're getting the same H700 quad-core chipset as before, meaning the RG SP should be capable of emulating up to the PS1 and Dreamcast on its 3.4-inch 720 x 480 IPS screen. It hasn't revealed a full spec sheet yet, as it's unclear how much RAM the Linux handheld will be rocking, although I suspect we'll get 1GB.

I'll be sure to fill you in on full specs when they land, but at least we've got an Anbernic RG SP flavors list. It'll be available in metallic silver, pink, blue, and black, matching Nintendo's original colorways. The other biggie is that there's no MSRP yet, but I'd be slightly insulted if it's way more than the RG34XXSP since that clamshell is $67.99 at AliExpress. I'm not holding my breath since component prices are continually spoiling handheld releases in 2026, but perhaps Anbernic will weather RAMageddon by sticking with what it knows.

Swing by the best retro consoles for FPGA remakes, emulation machines, and more.

The Playdate is a handheld haven of low-spec creativity, but one dev is going the extra mile by making a 3D "Metroidbrainia" for Panic's portable. Not only does the outing use its own "tiny" 3D renderer that even gets DOOM running on the monochrome indie game machine, but it also allows for outdoor cityscape platforming inspired by Mirror's Edge.

In a Bluesky clip, developer Cristina Ramos shows off her first-person exploration game Katavatis running on Panic's gaming handheld using the aforementioned 3D renderer. "I was told you couldn't do 3D on the Playdate, so I did it," proclaims Ramos before adding, "Then I was told there was no way I could create exterior levels like those in Mirror's Edge, so I proved them wrong again."

The developer's clips provide receipts for that claim, as she clearly demonstrates what appears to be a 1-bit Mirror's Edge running on the Playdate. The defiance accompanying the clip does appear to be slightly tongue-in-cheek, referencing the "back of the box" synopsis for Katravatis that reads "they told us climate change is a hoax," but honestly? I also figured 3D rendering would be a stretch for Panic's plucky portable.

I was told you couldn't do 3D on the Playdate, so I did it.Then I was told there was no way I could create exterior levels like those in Mirror's Edge, so I proved them wrong again.

— @saffroncr.bsky.social (@saffroncr.bsky.social.bsky.social) 2026-07-22T12:13:47.276Z

Naturally, I'm more than hyped to try this climate-apocalyptic, Metroidvania romp on an actual Playdate, but Katavatis is also coming to Steam and Itchio. The indie dev has actually documented their journey making a 3D renderer for the handheld on her latter page, and while the deep dive admits that the portable lacks the power to draw 3D scenes like a '90s 3DFX Voodoo PC card or the OG PS1, the results are closer to the likes of the 3DO or Sega Saturn.

The full devblog for the Playdate 3D renderer is a fascinating read, and does a fantastic job explaining what three-dimensional graphics actually are and how they're even possible on something like the Playdate. Keep in mind the portable is powered by a very low-key ARM Cortex-M7 chipset and just 16 MB of RAM, so seeing a perceivable 3D adventure platformer running on the hardware is wild.

Ramos says now that the 3D renderer is in a "good enough" state, it's paving the way for gameplay prototypes. The dev has already uploaded snippets of these to YouTube, and she's already answered the age-old question of whether it can run DOOM (it can). Again, if you've not got the indie retro handheld, Katavatis will be hitting Steam and Itchio, and I can't wait to explore the Metroidvania's abandoned deep-sea facility in all its 1-bit 3D glory.

Check out the best retro consoles for remakes of OG systems and emulation machines.

30 years ago today, the Game Boy Pocket arrived to show up its '80s DMG sibling. While Ninty's OG brick started the handheld fire way before July 21, 1996, the slimmer, refined portable doubled down on everything that made the original so great while resetting the bar for what a good portable experience feels like to this very day.

Alright, I'll admit that the lack of backlight makes the Game Boy Pocket feel super primitive compared to the best retro handhelds today. Nintendo was seemingly allergic to lighting (outside of its Japan-exclusive Game Boy Light experiment) until the 2000s, when it released the GBA SP, but that doesn't mean it simply slimmed down the DMG.

In fact, side by side, the Pocket makes the 1989 Nintendo Game Boy feel like stoneage tech. By ditching the murky green bogwater screen and swapping to a monochrome LCD with less ghosting and an enhanced polarizing film, Ninty was able to keep the handheld throne from more advanced competitors like the existing Game Gear, Atari Lynx, and the Nomad, Sega's full-blown portable version of the Genesis.

Yes, the Pocket was a stopgap until the Game Boy Color arrived on the scene, but it's still arguably more important. Nintendo could have done what many combatants in the gaming handheld scene do today and reactively aim for big specs and features to keep up with its competitors, but instead, it focused on incremental quality-of-life improvements that refined an already great formula rather than pouring it down the sink and trying to brew something punchier.

Even if modern contenders biting at the heels of devices like the Steam Deck OLED aren't with the Pocket's program, Ninty's second handheld has become somewhat of a blueprint. That makes sense given that it directly addressed criticisms with the original, like the aforementioned ghosting, the DMG's bulky brick nature, and better power efficiency, but it's an idea that companies today still embrace.

You could say the storm of emulation handhelds that's been roaring since the arrival of the Bittboy in 2019 is thanks to the Pocket's principles. The whole ecosystem today is still based on that idea of embracing the original Game Boy tech, with portable makers like Anbernic making homages like the RG35XX Plus that do more than Ninty's handheld, but borrow the exact vertical spirit and pockatable vibes.

Sure, the Pocket isn't the only handheld pleasantly haunting the modern handheld scene. Recently, Ayaneo announced a remake of the GBA, and Anbernic already has its and a clamshell RG35XXSP. That's driven by players who used those specific originals back in the day, but the Pocket format persists regardless, and sticking with refining the basics has helped produce some wonderful modern takes.

Some Pocket homages feel obvious by name, but might not actually look like a tribute. I'm specifically thinking of the Super Pocket, a budget Evercade handheld that is designed to provide excellent portable access to Blaze's cartridge ecosystem. It admittedly does squeeze extra shoulder buttons and four face inputs onto its vertical layout, but boons like battery longevity and its pocket-friendly size all link back to Ninty's second Game Boy.

On the premium side of things, the Analogue Pocket feels like an "on the nose" Game Boy Pocket tribute. This time, the name is a massive giveaway, as despite being significantly larger than the Ninty original and boasting a superior modern 1660 x 1440 3.5-inch LCD display, it sticks with the same flat, rectangular design with subtly curved edges.

The whole point I'm making is that, despite being a sequel to a more iconic handheld that arrived 30 years ago, the Game Boy Pocket is still making an impact. You can even transform your original portable into something that'll visually trade blows with the top emulation contenders today, thanks to screen mods that are similar to the Game Boy Color AMOLED touchscreen I showcased a few years ago.

TLDR: Happy Birthday, Game Boy Pocket! I'm sure you'll continue to inspire the handheld scene with your pocketability and refined vertical looks as they continue to age gracefully.

Swing by the best retro consoles if you're looking for a way to emulate classics or run original carts.

SNES DOOM might not be the closest thing to the OG MS-DOS boomer shooter, but it has evolved. Its modern metamorphosis arguably kicked off with the arrival of FX3 carts, a souped-up version of the original cartridges featuring a turbocharged Super FX that enhances performance and allows for more levels, but the creator of my favorite open-source retro controller adapter firmware has also made dual analogue stick support a thing.

A few weeks ago, Jacques Gagnon announced on BlueSky that they'd finished an FX3 SNES DOOM rom hack that adds BlueRetro dual analogue joystick support. The patch builds upon the enhancements brought by the cart created by Limited Run Games and Randy Linden, the original dev behind the "impossible" Super Nintendo port and Bleem!

Today, the BlueRetro dev shared an update to that previous feat, revealing that since SNES DOOM FX3 now runs on Mesen, it's now easier than ever to rip and tear with dual sticks. That means you don't need to use a real Super Nintendo and an FX3 cart, as the emulator will let you use modern controls on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Finally done with my SNES Doom FX3 rom hack that adds BlueRetro dual analog joystick support while maintaining existing rumble support! Details in reply below!

— @darthcloud.blueretro.com (@darthcloud.blueretro.com.bsky.social) 2026-07-20T15:04:38.914Z

Just as a reminder, you've got Gagnon to thank for the wireless adapter firmware that helps link the best retro controllers today to your original systems. The specific dongle I use to pair my Switch 2 GameCube adapter with an actual GameCube is powered by Blueretro software, and it's currently the only firmware that plays nicely with Nintendo's new gamepad protocol.

If you're using an actual FX3 SNES DOOM cart, just know that while the dev has tried to "make the install procedure safe," the dual analogue stick patch has only been tested on one unit. Therefore, Gagnon warns, "you have to keep in mind you might end up bricking your FX3 cartridge, lose the warranty, endup sad, etc..." as a disclaimer alongside a link to the project.

That's where using Mesen instead to try SNES DOOM with dual analogue sticks comes in handy, as you won't be messing with any physical ROM chips. I sadly don't have an FX3 cart yet, so I'll likely use the emulator in my free time later to take the shooter for a spin using something like the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro to retain that SNES pad feel.

Swing by the best retro consoles for systems that'll play original carts and run your ROMs.

Old LCD games look like stone-age tech compared to even handhelds like the OG Game Boy, but they're still worth preserving. That's something BrickEmuPy hopes to achieve, as the project has already preserved over 60 portable classics, and it's seemingly the first to preserve Nintendo's Mini Classics keychains for emulation.

Created by developers Azya52 and Andrei Cherniaev, BrickEmuPy is a "Handheld LCD games emulator in Python with PyQt6." Highlighted by the folks at Time Extension, the project has already preserved everything from Tamagotchis and Digimon Digivices to those Legend of Zelda and Super Mario wrist watches I begged my parents for back in the '90s.

Notably, it also appears to be the first project to dump Nintendo's Mini Classic keychain gadgets that function like a tiny retro handheld. The developers specifically dumped the Soccer version from 1998, but if I'm being real, I'm more hyped for more cursed portables to join the current list of 60 classics.

I've got a big soft spot for janky old LCD games, and I've got quite a few in my collection. I'm talking questionable rivals to Nintendo's Game and Watch series by the likes of Systema, Tiger, and a bunch of others that no brand will own up to.

Yes, I know a very small minority of players would be rushing to emulate the Monster Munch Bat LCD block game that was once given as a prize by Walkers (Lays to you US peeps), or a two-button portable that inexplicably features both "Vampire Attack" and "Melon Mover", but by preserving access, they'll live on when their physical form crumbles to dust.

I'm also a big advocate for preserving physical hardware experience, especially since we're sailing towards an all-digital future. You haven't "lived" until you've tried a cursed Game Child knock-off for yourself, even if the games were borderline unplayable out of the box. That said, providing a way to emulate the ROMs themselves is half the battle, and it'll be fun seeing which oddball portables are immortalised via the project.

Swing by the best retro consoles for remakes and emulation systems that pack a punch.

Now and then, I remember that the Polymega exists, usually through eye-catching game announcements. This time, it's caught my eye by way of a compilation featuring my favorite Sega Mega Drive shmup, Truxton, its sequel, and a bunch of other terrific hits by the iconic Japanese arcade publisher.

Polymega Collection Vol. 20 specifically features Truxton (Tatsujin), Truxton II (Tatsujin OU), Alcon (Slap Fight), and Grind Stormer (V‑V) (cheers, Time Extension). FYI, the bracketed aliases are the Japanese names for each release, and all four are vertical shooters that represent what Toaplan was all about back in the '90s.

The last time I caught wind of a Polymega release was when Body Harvest, an N64 precursor to GTA, arrived as part of Volume 15. Since then, the emulation-based best retro console contender has continued to receive proprietary CDs that ditch original cartridge formats for something that'll work on the machine's $549 base unit or the Polymega PC app.

To this day, I still play Truxton on a Sega Mega Drive hooked up to a CRT TV. It's a gruelling shooter that cares not for your feelings, and it'll easily knock your confidence for weeks via revenge bullets and sneaky flanking ships. I know, I'm not remotely making this classic shmup sound fun, but learning the patterns, collecting power-ups to amass the right kind fire power, and getting those alien dorks before they get you is phenomenally rewarding.

The draw with Truxton also lies in its simplicity. Unlike many other shooters after, Toaplan's arcade caper sticks to dogfight basics. You'll collect speed power-ups and have access to red, blue, and green weapons all with their own range and patterns, yes, but other than that, there are no gimmicks getting in the way of your deep space mission.

The first game is considered a "bullet-hell" experience, but Truxton II really takes the biscuit. It butters you up with incredible FM synth tracks before subjecting you to pure shmup sadism, and it's certainly one for those of you who've mastered the comparatively tame first romp.

I really love the idea of one CD featuring some of Toaplan's staple shmups, but the Evercade already beat Polymega to the punch with this complication. At least, it almost did, thanks to its Toaplan Arcade 1 and 2 collections, which pack a bunch more of the developer's hits onto two cartridges.

I don't want to start ranting on about how you can already play Truxton and its accompanying shmups for less in HD using something like the Evercade VS-R, or even on the go with the ridiculously affordable Super Pocket. If anything, I'm just pleased to see a bunch of great arcade capers officially land on more modern retro consoles, and the Polymega does have the fact that it supports Mega Drive controllers via its optional cartridge and gamepad port module (yes, I know these are arcade machine ROMs, but I'm a '90s console baby).

Ultimately, I'm just happy the Polymega player base is getting a nice steady supply of game releases. Volume 20 isn't even the latest releases sequentially, as Volumes 21 and 22 have been announced with respective Fixeight and Snow Bros headliners, and each is packed with other outings by Toaplan.

Swing by the best retro controllers for new buttons for your old systems.

Ayaneo has finally revealed what its Konkr Pocket Advance looks like, and yep, it's a GBA clone. I was holding out for a homage to the original 2001 handheld, and that's exactly what we're getting this time around, but we should probably wait for the specs before getting too hyped.

In yet another teaser, Ayaneo reveals a detailed render of the Konkr Pocket Advance that reveals the entire front. To the untrained eye, it's pretty much exactly like Nintendo's original GBA, complete with a cross d-pad, prominent top triggers, and black bezel framing its widescreen display. However, just like with most modern retro handheld remakes, there's plenty of modern touches here that give the game away.

For instance, you're getting four face buttons rather than two, just like with Anbernic's RG34XX GBA-inspired device. That serves as a reminder that this thing isn't just for running Game Boy Advance romps, as while we don't have a specs list yet, it'll likely emulate at least up to the PS1, or maybe even the GameCube since it borrows its delightful Spiced Orange getup.

Other details, like the two extra menu buttons on the right and the embossed Konkr logo at the bottom, all give the jig up too. What's perhaps more subtle when not next to a real GBA is the handheld's overall size difference, as this portable wields a larger screen. I'm not convinced it's the same 6-inch display as the existing Konkr Pocket Fit, as the aspect ratio, but if the faux Famicom controllers in the render are also to scale, we could be looking at something around 5 inches based on comparative measurements.

Keep in mind these teaser images only reveal the front, so it's hard to get a sense of its complete design. You can just about see a USB-C port at the bottom for charging, a microSD card flap on the left, and a volume wheel on the right, meaning we do know where all the main IO resides. I'm pretty sure there's a 3.5mm headphone jack next to that aforementioned wheel too, which could leave the top completely clear for additional USB-C ports or a dedicated HDMI.

I'd imagine that the rear will be kept relatively clear for cooling vents, but I'm curious to see whether Ayaneo has messed with the OG GBA design in the name of ergonomics. In theory, it could get away with adding some subtle grips without changing the overall vibe, even if many would argue against anything but a flat back panel.

Going by first impressions alone, the Konkr Pocket Advance looks to be a faithful homage to the real Game Boy Advance. The entire vibe is in line with Ninty's original vision, and it even avoids neglecting purely aesthetic elements like the plastic molding on the sides. Ayaneo should consider my interests firmly piqued, and I'll be patently waiting to see if its eventual specs and price tag make it a no-brainer for OG GBA nerds.

Take a peek at the best retro controllers for fresh, but authentic gamepads.

The Panasonic 3DO and Super Mario 64 are two things that probably shouldn't go in the same sentence. One is a stupidly expensive retro console from the '90s that couldn't remotely keep up with proper fifth-gen contenders, while the other helped usher in a new age of 3D gaming.

That contrast hasn't stopped one Panasonic FZ-10 owner from trying to run Super Mario 64 on the 3DO, as developer Eyepatch Entertainment is working on a cursed conversion (h/t, Time Extension). Rather than trying to make a traditional "port" of Nintendo's iconic plumber platformer, the retro console enthusiast is building a 3D engine that uses "real Super Mario 64 decompilation assets" that are then rendered using the 3DO's CEL co-processor.

"What you're seeing right now, this is a from the ground up 3D engine for the 3DO" explains the creator while showcasing rather haunted-looking Super Mario 64 demo footage. The video features both footage running on a Panasonic FZ-10 connected to a CRT and the Opera 3DO emulator side by side, which helps hammer home some of the limitations of the old oddball console.

"Uh, this shouldn't work," claims the dev before admitting that it "doesn't really work." Yet, right before our eyes is something that just about resembles the landmark platformer that blew our 2D-trained minds back in the '90s. "I took inspiration from that GBA port," explains Eyepatch Entertainment before labelling the project as "basically just homebrew and not a port."

The creator doubles down, saying, "you can't call this a port," revealing that it uses map data to generate "a suitable Mario model that will run in 2D." In my eyes, that's actually more impressive than a traditional port when you consider the massive 3D incapability of the OG hardware here, as the demo recreates everything from Peach's Castle to Bob-omb Battlefield complete with its resident Chain Chomp.

Technically speaking, Eyepatch Entertainment is right when they say Mario 64 can't run on the 3DO at the start of the video. However, this whole project highlights a core element of developing multiple versions of games for systems in the '80s and '90s. Sometimes, technical sacrifices had to be made to get big hits on your chosen platform, and while this is certainly a more extreme case of that, it's absolutely giving "simplified Game Boy port" vibes.

Sure, Nintendo's icon might be reduced to an "animated sprite" and bound to torturous tank controls, and the lack of sound and rock-bottom frame rate lows are entirely different issue entirely. But, in my eyes, this is still Mario 64 on the 3DO, and if I was presented with this back in 1993, I'd probably have a blast.

In fact, I'd have a blast right now trying to run Mario 64 on my Panasonic 3DO FZ-1, so I'll be keeping an eye out for the project if it's shared on the interwebs.

Take a peek at the best retro controllers for faithful new gamepads.

I don't know what Nintendo was thinking by releasing a Virtual Boy remake without its oddball controller in the first place. However, the retro community at large as once again stepped in to fix things for the big N-dawg, as there's now a mod kit that will transform your original controller, should you have one, into a wireless gamepad that'll work with the Switch 2 Online collection.

Fully demonstrated in a new video by chaotic (but lovable) retro console tinkerer James Channel, the Virtual Boy controller mod replaces the OG retro controller innards with new RetroOnxy Bluetooth guts. That allows it to then serve as an authentic gamepad for the Virtual Boy for Switch 2 released back in February, but it'll also work with PC, Meta Quest headsets, and even the goggles it originally came with thanks to a Blueretro adapter.

As far as mod conversions go, this one is remarkably simple. At least, James Channel makes it look easy as he converts a Virtual Boy controller belonging to a faulty headset. The bulk of the project involves replacing the gamepad's original board with the new Bluetooth version, which has its own new button contacts that align with the original membranes and plastic.

As you probably guessed, this mod kit completely cuts the cord, replacing the original wire with wireless capabilities. The design cleverly repurposes the through-hole for the cable as an indicator light pipe that signals connectivity, status, and player number through sequential flashes, making the package feel that bit more like a real new Nintendo controller.

For power, you'll still need to use the original battery holder at the back, but you've got options there too. You can choose to use AA batteries if you wish, but it'll also work with DC power adapters, and modern lithium battery packs that recharge via USB-C if you're done with '90s power vibes.

Seeing the modded Virtual Boy controller in action really makes me question why Nintendo skipped its own remake. James Channel puts the pad to the test in both games like Mario Tennis, Jack Bros, and Vertical Force, with the latter shooter helping demonstrate the gamepad's serviceable low latency. A quick Super Mario Bros session also backs that up while proving it can work with games outside the Virtual Boy app, despite its oddball dual d-pad layout.

An additional handy feature sandwiched in there ties to Switch 2 gamepad button mapping. While the pad lacks inputs like Home, you can use shortcuts to still navigate the gaming handheld and access the Virtual Boy app's settings dials. That, again, makes this accessory feel almost official, and makes me more annoyed that we didn't just get an official version.

Of course, such a nifty controller mod comes at a price, as you're looking at $99 for the PCB and a staggering $249 for a complete controller if you're really not into modding or don't have an OG pad. The latter price does make sense given the '90s controller is hard to come by and is normally paired with a more expensive OG Virtual Boy system.

I reckon Virtual Boy enthusiasts will be all over this controller mod kit, whereas casual players might be fine with Joy-Cons or a Pro pad. I should note that the 8Bitdo N64 controller works exceptionally well with Virtual Boy games since it has a d-pad on the left and c-buttons that feel like a Switch d-pad on the right, meaning you've got almost the right controller layout (if you ignore that single stick).

Swing by the best retro consoles for emulation systems and remakes with HDMI capabilities.

Kirby and Super Smash Bros. creator Masahiro Sakurai and Square Enix are celebrating the 43rd anniversary of the release of Nintendo's first major home console, the Famicom.

As Super Mario Bros and The Legend of Zelda are fresh off celebrating their 40th anniversaries, and Donkey Kong celebrated its 45th last week, Nintendo's first proper home console – not counting the single-game Color TV-Game series, which had been released beforehand – the Famicom celebrates its 43rd today. While it would take another couple of years for the console to arrive as the NES in North America (and another couple on top for the UK), the Famicom dropped in Japan on July 15, 1983, with Donkey Kong, Donkey Kong Jr., and Popeye in tow.

Sakurai, whose sole NES credit is directing Kirby's Adventure, which was one of the final Nintendo-published releases on the system, posted on Twitter (via machine translation) wishing the console a happy 43rd anniversary. He added that the platform – despite consoles releasing before and after – had the biggest impact on him as a game creator.

Square Enix also posted a short video celebrating the release of the classic console, showing the original Final Fantasy booting up on the platform (with a Dragon Quest box sitting off to the side). The two most iconic and influential JRPG series of all time both started on the platform, making it a crucial place for the genre.

Back in 2023, Sakurai released a video about the Famicom on his 'Masahiro Sakurai on Creating Games' YouTube show, where he dubbed it "perfect". The director opened the video saying, "I can proudly say I've developed a game for the Famicom, aka the Family Computer. That makes me pretty lucky!"

Sakurai bought the console in 1983 – owning one of the earlier models which featured square buttons instead of the circular A and B buttons seen by the time the NES was released. As for one reason the console remains such an iconic part of his life, he points out the massive leaps in game development back then, using the gulf in scope between 1983's Mario Bros. and 1985's Super Mario Bros. as an example.

He points out that there are a number of game developers like Nier's Yoko Taro, Devil May Cry's Hideki Kamiya, Kingdom Hearts' Tetsuya Nomura, and Doom's John Carmack who are the same age as Sakurai, "but only a small handful of them ever actually developed a game for the Famicom."

Sakurai adds, "If the Famicom had never existed, the shape of the modern game market – really the entire video game industry – would be completely different." And that even though the games are easily available and may seem quaint now, Sakurai says, "what I really want to stress is that at the time, it truly was an absolute dream machine."

Super Smash Bros creator Masahiro Sakurai sometimes "sounds exactly like Goku," ex-Tekken boss says: "A Saiyan who genuinely believes he's just another ordinary human"

Screenshots on the Analogue 3D are finally a thing thanks to update version 1.4.0, and it's been a long time coming. I've been waiting for the ability to snap 4K photos in some of my favorite N64 outings since the FPGA remake landed last year, but the feature is actually more advanced than I was expecting.

According to the Analogue 3D version 1.4.0 patch notes, the update will help you "capture, preserve, and share your favorite gameplay moments exactly as Analogue 3D renders it with Original Display Modes." Just like with modern systems, the retro console can now instantly snap a shot either using the star button on the 8Bitdo N64 controller or pressing Z + Start + R on a real pad, which can then be reminisced over in a dedicated gallery.

I was expecting the Analogue 3D's 4K N64 screenshots to be a basic screen grab, but now that I've finally got to grips with the virtual camera, it's actually way more impressive. Taking a snap actually works a bit like the Memories save state feature that debuted last month, only rather than sending you to a specific moment, it retains an in-game frame that you can then tweak just like you would with live game visuals.

That means you can freeze a moment in an N64 game, mess around with all the CRT filters and effects normally available when running a game, then export an image file to the SD card when you're done. Effectively, you're not simply slapping effects on top of a screenshot; you're instead putting it through the same post-processing as the gameplay itself, which theoretically results in more authentic-looking screen grabs.

I spend a lot of time experimenting with how to connect retro consoles to modern TVs and monitors, and screen capturing can be a pain. Active gameplay can look one way on a display, while looking different entirely once you've used something to snap a frame, then uploaded it to other places where effects might not look like you intended.

By that, I mean that an N64 screenshot might look fantastic with Sony Trinitron aperture grille effects while playing, but various factors mean a screengrab could be portrayed differently when exported to other devices or subjected to online compression. It's for that reason that being able to switch between filter styles and toggle different effects like HDR after the fact is pretty neat, as it'll mean you don't have to start from scratch to get something that looks universally "right".

For a while now, I've been itching to start a retro gaming snap book filled with "memories" of my classic capers. The basic idea is that every time I complete a game, I'll print off a bunch of screenshots highlighting the journey and iconic moments, then stick them onto a page alongside some field notes and scribbles.

Yes, the project ties to my longing desire to disconnect from the internet, and the Analogue 3D will partially help with that. Getting the screenshots off of the 4K N64 still requires accessing the SD card using a modern device, sure, but I could technically turn the ritual of sharing gameplay with friends into a purely analogue experience that doesn't involve logging into accounts or uploading JPEGs to social media.

That said, I would welcome more Analogue 3D Wi-Fi features should they be in the pipeline for the future. As of yet, the console maker hasn't enabled the device's internet connectivity, but it could be used to wirelessly grab saved screenshots or even directly upload them online. Now that we have the screenshots and gallery feature, the stage is absolutely set for that functionality, and I'm looking forward to seeing more Nintendo 64 photo albums pop up across the net.

If you need more of a reason to fetch Analogue 3D update version 1.4.0, just know that it also adds some visual polish to the OS, improves thumbnail load times, and applies fixes to quirks with d-pad navigation and multiple Controller Paks in San Francisco Rush.

Swing by the best retro controllers if you're on the hunt for the perfect N64 pad.

GameSir may have some of the best PC controllers under its belt, but it's taking square aim at Xbox fans with its latest T7 Pro drop. The Retro Green colorway has just dropped on the brand's site, yet another callback to that OG Xbox aesthetic we've all been yearning for amongst... well... everything that's happened this year.

The $49.99 / £55.99 Hall effect controller blasts that translucent aesthetic with its primary-colored face buttons and a whole bunch of ambient LEDs. That gives it a slightly livelier aesthetic than Retro Fighter's take on the classic design, with the Hunter's translucent chassis simply letting its screws do the talking.

That means the effect seems to wear off by the time we get to the grips, but that RGB lighting looks like it'll be doing most of the talking anyway.

Translucent yearning aside, the T7 Pro has a sturdy lineup of features at its disposal. While those after one of the best Xbox Series X controllers for more competitive pursuits might begrudge those membrane ABXY buttons, the wired connection keeps things zippy and fuss-free, while Hall effect analog triggers still make use of two-stage trigger stops for twitch-reflex movement as well.

That all comes packaged up with four rumble motors and the obligatory back buttons - configurable in the GameSir Nexus software.

If you weren't a child of the transparent Xbox era, though, that's not a feature set that's going to be setting the world alight. For $50, you can also pick up the GameSir Cyclone 2 (now $49.99 at Amazon), the gamepad we rate as the best value on the market. This is a TMR controller (an upgraded version of Hall effect tech), with a wireless 1,000Hz polling rate, a charging dock included, and larger back buttons.

That would be my recommendation if you'd called me as the fun police, anyway. I'm always down to jig with some translucent tech, and the Retro Green T7 Pro manages is certainly calling to a heritage with all the style and vibes of the best retro controllers.

• See all controller deals at Amazon

On the other side of the console wars back in the day? We're also rounding up the best PS5 controllers and the best Nintendo Switch 2 controllers for more options across the market.

It's easy to see why the Casio Loopy, a Japanese console with a built-in sticker printer, didn't get an official port of DOOM. That hasn't stopped enthusiasts in the past, though, and the '90s 32-bit system that once targeted girl gamers with its lilac getup and library of "cosy" and romantic cartridges now runs id's ultra-violent boomer shooter.

I'm well used to seeing absurd DOOM ports, but the 1995 Casio Loopy wasn't on my bingo card (cheers for highlighting, Hackaday). You've got developer Throaty Mumbo to thank, as they took it upon themselves to acquire the retro console (something I've yet to do), and get the MS-DOS shooter running using a "Floopy Drive".

Yes, I snorted at the name too, but the Floopy Drive is effectively an open-source flash cart for the Casio Loopy. After trying out some other homebrews, like "Floopy Bird" and the DOOM/Wolvenstein 3D-inspired "Anarch", the dev decided to take a crack at making an actual DOOM port inspired by the SNES version of the shooter.

Throaty Mumbo sadly doesn't document the actual Casio Loopy DOOM port development, but they do show off the results. The developer started off by making a version for an emulator before trying to run it using the Floopy Drive, and while the first attempt was a bit slow and lacked MIDI audio, two days' extra work seemed to do the trick.

Of course, getting DOOM running on something like the Loopy isn't child's play. Notably, Throaty Mumbo says while the game and Casio's retro console both use MIDI, the shooter uses a different sound font (Roland SC-55), meaning drums and other layers are out of sync. To combat this, the dev seemingly went through each instrument, then narrowed things down (sadly with help from Claude AI) to pick out more appropriate tones.

The result is naturally far blockier looking than if you used an actual MS-DOS PC, but it's pretty much on par with the SNES version. That's a mean feat given the Loopy doesn't have access to a co-processor like the Super FX chip built into Nintendo's cart. What I'm more impressed with is the approach to audio, as Throaty Mumbo ends up modding the Floopy Drive to also support PCM sound effects on top of the MIDI tracks.

That in itself involves using a Raspberry Pi RP2040 board in conjunction with a PCM5102 for analogue conversion to the cartridge pins. Having previously even wrestled with my custom Windows 98 PC and Soundblaster 16 sound card regarding running both MIDI and sound effects without conflicts, I am pretty shooketh that a Casio Loopy can pull it off with a bit of modding.

As a finishing touch, the developer whips up a custom label for the DOOM cart, which really brings out the pastels of the console's shell and buttons. The ultimate cherry on top, though, is using that integrated sticker printer to make a cursed screenshot, which is then added to a scrapbook with the other more fitting girly pop shots.

I've never been more tempted to grab a Casio Loopy, especially since it's one of the only consoles I don't already own. I reckon I may have to swing past by friend Alan at Forgotten Worlds in Stewarton, Scotland to see if he's got the oddball machine in stock, and if that happens, I'll absolutely be looking at playing DOOM and printing kawaii pictures of every Cacodemon I encounter.

Swing by the best retro handhelds for ways to play classic capers on the go.

I've been dreading potential Super Pocket price increases for a while, and AI component demand finally made it happen. While the cartridge-based retro handheld's creators, Blaze, say they "absorbed rising costs across manufacturing, components, and freight for as long as possible," the portable and its carts will become more expensive in the UK and Europe.

In an Evercade cartridge and Super Pocket annoucement, Blaze CEO Andrew Byatt breaks the news by saying, "I wanted to speak directly to our customers," regarding pricing changes for both regions. Byatt clarifies, "This is not a planned price rise, and it is not a decision we have taken lightly," but confirms that absorbing cost increases is "no longer feasible."

The specific price increases will see Evercade cartridges increase from £19.99 / €24.99 to £24.99 / €29.99, while the Super Pocket will jump from £49.99 / €59.99 to £59.99 / €69.99. Byatt adds that the "memory and flash storage costs have risen sharply," something that is "affecting the whole consumer electronics market, including gaming."

It's worth noting that, at the time of writing, I'm still seeing Super Pocket models for their original MSRP at Amazon. The Rare Edition (the one with Banjo-Kazooie) is still available for £49.95, and the Technos Edition remains the cheapest at £42.95. I suspect the hikes will kick in once the retailers' current stock depletes, so keep that in mind if you've been thinking of grabbing one.

Naturally, news of price increases sparked by AI data centre demand isn't news at this stage. RAMageddon is ripping its way through the entire games and entertainment industry, driving up once sacred console MSRPs higher as components like RAM become scarce. The fact it's impacting even a low-spec handheld like the Super Pocket, though, demonstrates that even some of the cheapest systems aren't safe from the storm.

I'm not sure I like framing this as a "bright side", but if you're in the US, Evercade cart and Super Pocket prices are staying the same. You could say that's because US players were already paying more for the gadgets since they were previously hit with turbulent tariffs, but Blaze's CEO reveals "recent tariff reductions have helped us offset some of the pressure."

The timing of this Evercade price increase news is unfortunate. Sure, other systems like the Evercade VS-R, EXP-R, and Evercade Alpha are safe. However, with news of Sony's plans to kill off physical PS5 games causing a ruckus, many players will be looking to bastions of physical gaming like the Super Pocket as an ecosystem jumping-on point.

Personally, I'm not convinced the price increases serve as a reason not to buy a Super Pocket right now. Even at £60 / €70, it's still pretty affordable and will set you back less than a new Switch 2 or PS5 game. Plus, its lineup of over 500 games across numerous physical boxed releases is only going to grow, and even 3D classics like Tomb Raider and Banjo-Kazooie (currently via the Super Pocket Rare Edition) are increasing in number.

Price increases suck, so this is certifiably bad news for anyone looking to start an Evercade collection. Despite this, Blaze reassures its player base that it'll continue to "remain focused on what we believe matters: physical products, officially licensed games, curated collections, no subscriptions, no complicated set-up and a growing library for players and collectors."

The next big Evercade release on the cards for 2026 is the Super Pocket Activision Edition, and while the price hike will put a damper on things, I reckon it's curated collection of third-party Atari classics will go down well. It'll then be all eyes on the shiny new, 3D-focused Evercade Nexus, and we can only hope the handheld scene stabilizes by the time October hits.

Swing by the best retro consoles for premium remakes and emulation systems.

It feels like a given that Ayaneo would make a premium Game Boy Advance clone, but its latest teaser all but confirms plans for an OG remake. Dubbed the Konkr Pocket Advance, the newcomer apparently pays tribute to "a legendary handheld that defined the golden age of portable gaming," and that certainly sounds like Ninty's 2000s portable to me.

In a teaser post, Ayaneo frames the Konkr Pocket Advance as the retro handheld remake fans have been waiting for. "This time, we pay tribute to a true icon," claims the admittedly vague announcement, which almost feels like it's throwing self-shade at the new Ayaneo Pocket Micro 2. That portable instead borrows cues from the Game Boy Micro, just like the same suggests, so all the emphasis on the word "Advance" with this newcomer feels like an obvious nod to the 2001 version.

Of course, since the teaser includes no actual images of the Konkr Pocket Advance, there's no guarantee it's a clone of Nintendo's first 32-bit handheld. The branding ties to a long lineage of models, and we could end up with another clamshell clone of the GBA SP not unlike the Anbernic RG35XXSP. I'm personally hoping that doesn't transpire, as the OG horizontal bat-wing design doesn't get enough love in 2026.

For those of you out of the loop, Konkr now serves as Ayaneo's "budget" handheld brand. It's supposed to serve as a line between affordable Android emulation systems and beefier premium gaming handhelds like the Ayaneo Flip DS. That said, the company has blurred that line with releases like the Ayaneo Pocket Micro 2, as it starts at $239 and places more emphasis on luxury with its CNC shell and Snapdragon 865 chipset.

For the Konkr Pocket Advance to truly "pay tribute to a true icon", it will need to nail a few key things. At the top of that list is price and availability, as handheld fans are already worried the portable will be limited to 100 units just like the Pocket Micro 2. It also needs to aim for the same MSRP range as the Anbernic RG34XX, even if that means sticking with specs that stop at PS1 emulation.

Nailing the "Advance" aesthetic could also make or break the next Konkr handheld. All the hints sound like we're getting a modern Game Boy Advance remake, and if that's the case, getting the details right will be crucial. Ultimately, many players will be looking for something that feels like GBA to use, but boasts a bright and vibrant modern screen paired with elevated controls, and those should be ingredients rather than a completely new formula.

Take a peek at the best retro consoles if you're putting together a classic gaming setup in your living room.

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.

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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.

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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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Looking for ways to play Xbox games on the go? We've got you covered with the best retro handhelds and best gaming handhelds with the power to play old and new outings.

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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