The retro gaming community is buzzing with excitement as Anbernic, a titan in the handheld emulation market, teases its latest device: the RG35XX Pro. Leaked via a now-viral social media post by industry insider RetroHandhelds, the upcoming handheld promises to refine the beloved RG35XX formula with upgraded hardware, a sleek design, and features tailored for both nostalgia-driven gamers and modern tinkerers.
What’s New with the RG35XX Pro?
The original RG35XX, released in late 2022, quickly became a fan favorite for its compact vertical design (reminiscent of the Game Boy) and affordability. The Pro variant, however, takes things up a notch. Early specs suggest a 5-inch IPS display with a 4:3 aspect ratio—ideal for retro systems—paired with a more powerful chipset rumored to handle up to PlayStation Portable (PSP) and Nintendo Dreamcast titles smoothly. Anbernic has also reportedly upgraded the analog sticks and buttons for a premium feel, addressing critiques of the original model’s ergonomics.
A hands-on video preview leaked earlier this week showcases the device’s snappy performance, with Metal Slug X (Neo Geo) and Tekken 3 (PlayStation) running flawlessly. The Pro also appears to feature dual SD card slots, Wi-Fi connectivity for multiplayer and OTA updates, and a larger 3,500mAh battery—potentially doubling the original’s runtime.
Software and Customization
Like its predecessors, the RG35XX Pro will likely ship with a Linux-based OS, though Anbernic has hinted at improved software stability and broader emulator support. The community-driven GarlicOS, which transformed the original RG35XX into a customization powerhouse, is already confirmed to receive a Pro-optimized update. For newcomers, the out-of-box experience is said to be more polished, with preloaded games (legally licensed, per Anbernic’s recent partnerships) and an intuitive UI.
Competition Heats Up
Anbernic’s announcement comes amid a flurry of releases in the retro handheld space. Competitors like Miyoo are preparing the Miyoo Mini Flip, a clamshell-style device targeting portability, while Anbernic’s own RG557, launched last month, caters to high-end users with a 5.5-inch OLED screen. The RG35XX Pro, however, seems positioned as a middle ground—affordable yet powerful enough to satisfy most retro enthusiasts.
Pricing and Availability
While Anbernic has yet to confirm an official release date, retailers like GSMGO Tech suggest a late June launch. Pre-orders are expected to open soon, with a projected price tag of $99–$129—a steal compared to premium devices like the Steam Deck or Retroid Pocket 4. For those eager to jump in, Anbernic’s current-gen RG35XX is available on Amazon at a discount, though the Pro’s upgrades may be worth the wait.
Final Thoughts
The RG35XX Pro exemplifies Anbernic’s strategy of iterative improvement, refining its hardware without alienating budget-conscious buyers. As the retro gaming market grows increasingly crowded, the Pro’s balance of performance, design, and price could make it the go-to choice for 2024. Stay tuned for official updates—and keep those SD cards ready.
What do you think of the RG35XX Pro? Let us know in the comments below!
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