Anbernic, a prominent player in the retro handheld market, has unveiled its latest creation, the RG34XX, a device that draws heavily from the iconic design of Nintendo’s Game Boy Advance. This new handheld evokes a sense of nostalgia while incorporating modern enhancements to accommodate a wider range of gaming experiences. The RG34XX boasts a familiar form factor, reminiscent of the GBA, but distinguishes itself with the addition of extra action and shoulder buttons, a feature not present in its inspiration. This strategic addition broadens the RG34XX’s gaming capabilities, allowing it to handle titles from more contemporary systems, extending beyond the GBA library. While pricing and availability are yet to be confirmed, Anbernic has revealed that the RG34XX will be offered in a palette of colors that includes transparent red and green, as well as the classic GBA purple and black, catering to a variety of aesthetic preferences.
A key departure from the original Game Boy Advance lies in the display technology. The GBA’s infamous non-backlit LCD screen, notorious for its poor visibility in anything other than bright sunlight, has been replaced with a more modern and user-friendly alternative. The RG34XX boasts a larger 3.4-inch display with a crisp 720×480 resolution, providing a significant improvement in visual clarity. Furthermore, the RG34XX retains the GBA’s 3:2 aspect ratio, ensuring faithful reproduction of GBA titles. This aspect ratio also benefits older games designed for 4:3 televisions, as they can be displayed without excessive stretching or the addition of black bars (pillarboxing) that often compromise the visual experience. This thoughtful approach to display technology ensures that both classic and more recent games are presented optimally on the RG34XX.
Unlike handhelds that utilize physical cartridges, the Anbernic RG34XX, similar to other Anbernic devices, embraces software emulation as its primary means of gameplay. It lacks a cartridge slot, distinguishing it from devices like the Analogue Pocket and the ModRetro Chromatic. This design choice positions the RG34XX within a specific niche of the retro gaming market, focusing on accessibility and versatility through emulation. While the exact specifications remain undisclosed, industry speculation suggests the RG34XX will be powered by the Allwinner H700 chipset, a processor previously employed in other Anbernic XX series handhelds. If this speculation proves accurate, the RG34XX will likely be capable of emulating games from a wide range of consoles, potentially including systems as advanced as the original Sony PlayStation, and possibly even some titles from the Nintendo 64 and Sega Dreamcast.
The RG34XX is equipped with a comprehensive array of connectivity options to enhance the gaming experience. Dual shoulder buttons further expand gameplay possibilities, while a mini HDMI port allows users to connect the device to a larger display, such as a television, for a more immersive experience. Charging is facilitated by a modern USB-C port, a convenient and increasingly ubiquitous standard. Storage is handled by dual microSD card slots, providing ample space for ROMs and the device’s operating system. The inclusion of Wi-Fi connectivity unlocks further functionalities, enabling online play and streaming PC games through platforms such as Moonlight. Bluetooth support allows for the connection of multiple wireless controllers, facilitating shared screen multiplayer experiences.
The Anbernic RG34XX emerges as a compelling option for retro gaming enthusiasts, blending nostalgic design elements with contemporary hardware and software features. Its form factor pays homage to the beloved Game Boy Advance, while the inclusion of additional buttons and a modern display elevates the gameplay experience beyond the limitations of the original hardware. The adoption of software emulation further expands its versatility, potentially allowing it to handle titles from a broader range of consoles. Coupled with its comprehensive connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mini HDMI output, the RG34XX offers a flexible and feature-rich platform for enjoying classic games on the go or on a larger screen.
While detailed specifications and pricing remain under wraps, the initial information surrounding the RG34XX positions it as a promising entry in the retro handheld market. Its ability to potentially emulate games from systems ranging from classic consoles to the original PlayStation, and possibly even some N64 and Dreamcast titles, makes it a versatile option for those seeking a portable retro gaming solution. The inclusion of modern features like USB-C charging, dual microSD card slots, and wireless connectivity further solidifies its appeal. The RG34XX’s blend of nostalgic design and modern functionality is poised to capture the attention of retro gaming enthusiasts looking for a convenient and capable handheld device.
