Looks like we're getting a Dreamcast Mini (sort of), and it's a mini PC I'd potentially grab over a Steam Machine

I hate to shatter your dreams (sorry), but an official Sega Dreamcast Mini will probably never happen. While that's terrible news for those of us who adore the failed PS2 rival, it does provide mini PC makers like Acemagic with an opportunity to pay tribute, and the tiny rig up its sleeve could out-trick the Steam Machine.

Spotted by Tom's Hardware on the CES 2026 show floor, the Acemagic "Retro X5" crams an AMD Gorgon Point Ryzen AI 9 HX 470 or Ryzen AI 9 465, up to 64GB RAM, and 4TB storage into something that looks like Sega's best retro console contender. Don't forget, this is a mini gaming PC rather than an NES Classic-style homage, so you're also getting two LAN ports, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity accompanied by USB-C and USB-A ports.

As a dork who was a teenager in the '90s, I'm naturally drawn to the Dreamcast version, complete with its round buttons and faux disc tray, and if I'm being real with you, it probably best resembles a Japanese white Sega Saturn since it has a maroon button at the front. But if you grew up with the NES, there's a version that mimics Nintendo's first system too. That specific model is actually pretty similar to the Ayaneo Mini PC AM02, although it's missing the funky pop-open cart door and screen on top.

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New things that look like old things are just fun, but I am wondering whether Gorgon Point mini PCs could serve as solid Steam Machine alternatives We're talking innards that are much closer to a gaming handheld, whereas Valve's box actually uses a similar custom chipset to a console, but the Ryzen AI 9 HX 470's Radeon 890M GPU boasts some decent 1080p abilities.

I suspect Acemagic is gunning for minimalist desktop setups over the compact console market, even if the Retro X5 makes for a punchy gaming machine. That much is clear by the "Co-pilot" button that lives where the traditional power toggle would be on a Dreamcast - a design choice that feels disrespectful to consoles of old.

I'll be looking out for mini PCs and systems that could act as Steam Machine alternatives, and I'll, of cours,e be looking to take Valve's box for a spin when the time comes. If the latter ends up launching with an out-of-reach price point, DIY solutions will end up being vital in 2026, especially given that full desktop rigs are now at the mercy of AI-fuelled component price hikes.

• More mini PCs at Amazon
• Retro consoles at Amazon

Looking to play classics on the go? Swing by the best retro handhelds for emulation devices and consoles. If you've already got the Steam Deck OLED, take a peek at the best Steam Deck docks and Steam Deck accessories to enhance your portable PC setup.