The Anbernic RG34XX, a new handheld emulator, has arrived, generating significant buzz within the retro gaming community. While aesthetically reminiscent of the original Game Boy Advance (GBA), the RG34XX boasts several noteworthy enhancements. Beyond the nostalgic design, the device incorporates modern features like dual microSD card slots, an HDMI port for connecting to larger displays, and a pair of additional action buttons and shoulder buttons, expanding gameplay possibilities. A key upgrade is the larger 3.4-inch display with a sharper 720×480 resolution and a 3:2 aspect ratio, perfectly mirroring the GBA’s original display proportions. The volume control, while appearing as a classic dial, is actually a two-way toggle switch allowing for precise incremental adjustments.
Early reviews of the RG34XX paint a picture of a device that successfully captures the essence of the GBA experience, both its strengths and limitations. Russ Crandall, a respected voice in the retro gaming community, lauded the emulator’s accuracy, describing it as a “nearly perfect” recreation of Nintendo’s hardware. This fidelity, however, is a double-edged sword. While purists will appreciate the authentic feel, those who found the GBA’s ergonomics less than ideal may experience similar issues with the RG34XX. The device’s compact size, mimicking the GBA, may prove uncomfortable for users with larger hands, particularly when utilizing the secondary set of shoulder buttons.
Powering the RG34XX is the familiar Allwinner H700 chipset, a processor Anbernic has deployed in several previous handhelds. This choice suggests a focus on emulating older consoles rather than pushing the boundaries of performance. While the RG34XX may not be capable of smoothly running games from 3D systems like the Nintendo 64, Sega Dreamcast, or Sony PSP, it excels in emulating 16-bit and earlier consoles. The device’s native 3:2 aspect ratio makes it particularly well-suited for Game Boy Advance titles, ensuring a pixel-perfect presentation.
The RG34XX’s design, while aesthetically pleasing, presents some ergonomic challenges, especially for those with larger hands. While the primary shoulder buttons, positioned identically to the GBA’s, feel comfortable and responsive, the secondary shoulder buttons pose a different story. These smaller buttons, located closer to the former cartridge slot of the GBA, are more difficult to reach and comfortably manipulate, potentially hindering gameplay for some users. This design choice, likely dictated by the desire to maintain the GBA’s compact form factor, highlights the inherent trade-off between nostalgic aesthetics and modern ergonomic considerations.
Despite these ergonomic concerns, the RG34XX appears to be a strong contender in the retro handheld market. Its accurate emulation, enhanced display, and additional buttons offer a compelling upgrade over the original GBA hardware. The inclusion of modern conveniences like microSD card slots and an HDMI port further enhances its appeal. However, potential buyers should be aware of the device’s compact size and the potential discomfort it may present for larger hands, particularly when using the secondary shoulder buttons.
Ultimately, the RG34XX represents Anbernic’s commitment to delivering a refined retro gaming experience. It successfully blends the nostalgia of the GBA with modern enhancements, offering a compelling option for gamers seeking a portable and accurate way to revisit classic titles. While the ergonomic considerations regarding the secondary shoulder buttons may be a concern for some, the device’s overall performance and feature set make it a worthy addition to the retro gaming landscape. The choice boils down to individual preferences and priorities – whether the authentic GBA experience, coupled with modern enhancements, outweighs the potential ergonomic drawbacks for users with larger hands.
