Anbernic finally delivers the Game Boy Advance SP that nostalgia always imagined.

After spending time with Anbernic’s new retro handheld, their RGSP, my hands-on review is now posted. Mine got super delayed because I have a ton of other things I’ve been working on, so I’m sure not much in here will be a surprise to anyone. But if you’re a fan of written articles, then this might (at least) tick that nostalgia box for you.

Alongside the usual and typical review content in here (controls, ergonomics, stock OS, games) I spoke with Frysee, the lead developer of NextUI, and pvaibhav, who has been leading much of the H700/RG SP implementation, about what it takes to bring NextUI’s firmware experience to Anbernic’s latest clamshell effort. Frysee’s dev unit arrived a good few days ago, so by the time you all have these in your hands, whatever tiny quirks will have been well ironed out.

Their takes on topics like boot times, display calibration, lid detection, feature parity with stock firmware, and the philosophy behind creating a true “pick up and play” experience was nice, and add a perspective.

I hope at least some of you here enjoy it :)

  • PerfectDarkOPMEnglish
    3·
    3 days ago

    Here’s my own review of the Rotate, just for some context:

    https://gardinerbryant.com/hands-on-with-the-anbernic-rg-rotate/

    But yes, the RG Rotate is far more powerful. It’ll run your PSX games upscaled. This one has 3GB RAM, which is a far cry from the RGSP’s 1GB, so you’ll have the benefits of:

    • Upscaling the PlayStation (or N64, or DC) games without an issue
    • Having enough overhead to run whatever shaders you like. I only tried a few, because shaders are just not my thing. But they’ll absolutely be happier on the Rotate
    • Enough power in the to run some fun Android games. I know, you’re looking for specifically retro, but it is nice to have options.
    • It is also beautifully unique. I love the rotating screen. I just had another delivered actually. Anbernic sent me the metal one to review back on release, but I just got the plastic version for a follow-up article I’m working on right now! My most recommended apps, programs and some physical accessories.

    If GBA is your dream, you just can’t beat the RGSP. If you want DC/N64/PSX without compromises? Then the Rotate is your answer. I do just love them both though, just for different reasons.