For years, retro gaming enthusiasts have looked to companies like Anbernic to recapture the magic of classic consoles in sleek, modern packages. We've seen powerful devices capable of emulating everything from the PlayStation Portable to the Nintendo 64. But one iconic form factor has remained elusive for the brand: a true, high-quality dual-screen clamshell. That wait now appears to be over.
Anbernic has officially teased its upcoming RG DS handheld, and a fresh video has given us our best look yet at the device's versatile dual-screen functionality, positioning it as a direct homage to—and potential successor for—the beloved Nintendo DS lineage.
Sizing Up the Competition: A Heftier, Larger Form Factor
The buzz around the Anbernic RG DS began over the weekend when early details about its physical dimensions surfaced. For those holding onto their original hardware, the size comparison is telling. According to initial reports, the RG DS is not a compact device; it's sized similarly to the Nintendo DSi XL.
This means it will be noticeably taller and wider than other recent clamshell competitors on the market, such as the Retroid Pocket Flip 2. This larger footprint likely points to a more substantial feel in the hands and, hopefully, room for larger batteries and a more comfortable grip during long gaming sessions. The choice to emulate the DSi XL suggests Anbernic is prioritizing screen real estate and user comfort over pocketability.
Dual-Screen Versatility Takes Center Stage
While the size is one thing, the real story is how Anbernic is implementing the dual-screen experience. The newly released teaser video moves beyond simple emulation, showcasing a level of versatility that even the original Nintendo DS would envy.
The key takeaway is that the RG DS won't force you to use both screens for a single game. Instead, it offers flexible display modes that let you use each screen independently.
As demonstrated in the official teaser video embedded below, you can seamlessly play a single-screen retro game on one display—say, a Game Boy Advance title—while using the secondary panel to watch a video, browse a guide, or even control music playback.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVAHh-DmDu8
This "multi-tasking" approach is a significant feature. Imagine grinding through a classic JRPG like Final Fantasy VI on the top screen while following a detailed map and walkthrough on the bottom, all without ever needing to pause and switch apps. It’s a practical innovation that adds genuine value to the dual-screen setup, making it more than just a novelty for DS-era games.
The Waiting Game: When Can We Expect the Anbernic RG DS?
Despite this exciting new information, Anbernic is still keeping one crucial detail under wraps: the official release date. The company has not yet announced when the RG DS will be available for purchase.
This radio silence on a launch window is particularly interesting given the flurry of announcements from its direct competitor, Retroid. Just today, Retroid unveiled its new Pocket G2 and Pocket 6 models, heating up the competition in the mid-range handheld market. We've covered the full details of those launches in our dedicated [Retroid Pocket G2] and [Retroid Pocket 6] articles.
This timing is likely no coincidence. Anbernic may be holding its cards close to its chest to assess the market's response to Retroid's new devices before finalizing its own pricing and launch strategy. Regardless of the reasoning, industry watchers now consider it unlikely that we'll see the Anbernic RG DS hit the market before the start of November.
The Bottom Line
The Anbernic RG DS is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing retro handhelds of the year. By embracing a larger, DSi XL-inspired form factor and implementing genuinely useful dual-screen versatility, Anbernic isn't just copying a classic design—it's attempting to evolve it. For fans of Nintendo's dual-screen era and retro gamers looking for a device that can handle both gaming and guides simultaneously, the RG DS may well be worth the wait.
As an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases. For those interested in the clamshell competition, the Retroid Pocket Flip 2 is currently available.
https://amzn.to/3J8HGVc