This week, a new retro handheld from Anbernic steals the spotlight. Innovative gaming devices like the Retroid Pocket 5 are revealed, causing excitement for ergonomic designs and RGB features. Meanwhile, Acer's Project Dual Play mixes gaming and snacking with its quirky laptop concept. The hosts discuss a unique iPhone case that also serves as a gaming controller. And let’s not forget the much-loved gaming pillow—perfect for comfort during those long gaming sessions. Join in for laughs and tech insights!
Brendan's return to the podcast after overcoming COVID highlights the importance of camaraderie and relatable struggles amidst the hosts.
The introduction of the Anbernic 406V handheld emphasizes ergonomic design and powerful gaming capabilities, captivating both nostalgic and modern gamers.
The hosts explore the balance between aesthetic appeal and practical functionality in handheld devices, particularly regarding the use of RGB lighting.
Deep dives
Returning to the Podcast Scene
The hosts express their excitement about returning to the podcast after a brief absence, particularly highlighting Brendan's experience recovering from COVID. Brendan shares his struggle with brain fog, which had affected his ability to handle tasks, exemplified by scheduling a new episode incorrectly. As everyone welcomes him back, the dynamic of light-hearted banter signifies their camaraderie and shared experiences. This sets a lively tone for the episode and engages listeners with relatable moments.
Introducing the EMBERNICK 46V
A new handheld gaming device, the EMBERNICK 46V, is introduced, boasting a vertical design with dual joysticks, which allows for greater gaming emulation capabilities. The hosts discuss the ergonomic features of the device, emphasizing how its rounded shape makes it more comfortable compared to previous models. They express enthusiasm about the potential for playing GameCube and PS2 games on this new hardware, indicating a growing trend in powerful handheld devices. The discussion reflects a burgeoning interest in portable gaming solutions that attract both nostalgic and current gamers.
The Spectrum of RGB Lighting in Gaming Devices
The conversation shifts to the proliferation of RGB lighting on various handheld devices, with mixed opinions about its relevance and functionality. While some find it unnecessary and often prefer to disable it for practicality, others appreciate its aesthetic appeal in promotional material. The hosts reflect on various handhelds like the ROG Ally, discussing how excessive lighting can detract from gameplay, especially in low-light environments. This dialogue underscores the importance of balancing design flair with user experience in gaming hardware.
Revisiting Retroid and New Releases
The Retroid brand and its product lineup come under the spotlight, particularly with the announcement of the Retroid Pocket 5 and Mini. These new handhelds promise enhanced performance through updated Snapdragon chipsets and ergonomic designs that prioritize user comfort. The potential for running Linux distros like Batocera is particularly exciting to users, allowing for greater customization and game support. As the hosts analyze Retroid's positioning against its sibling company, Ein, they explore the implications of competition and innovation within the handheld gaming market.
Gaming Accessories and Experimental Designs
The episode delves into novel gaming accessories, notably the controversial Project Dual Play, where a laptop integrates a detachable controller that emerges from the trackpad. While the design raises eyebrows regarding functionality, it reflects an innovative approach to enhancing portable gaming. Additionally, they discuss Lenovo's long-awaited Legion Go accessories, such as a controller wedge designed to improve gameplay experiences. With these discussions, the conversation encapsulates both excitement and skepticism regarding the future of innovative technologies in gaming.
This week, Anbernic comes through with another retro handheld, PC makers announce new Windows handhelds, an iPhone case built for the Delta emulator, and Federico declares his love for a gaming pillow.