Anbernic Unveils the RG CubeXX: The Ultimate Handheld for Retro Gamers?

Verdict

Anbernic has just launched the RG CubeXX, a sleek handheld gaming console designed with retro gaming enthusiasts in mind. This new model, based on the popular RG Cube form factor, offers a budget-friendly option with its H700 internals and a D-Pad up top. While it may not support GameCube or PS2 emulation, it provides a solid performance for retro gaming, all at a price point that doesn’t break the bank. If you’re looking for a simple, compact handheld for classic games, this could be your next favorite device!

Pros and Cons of Anbernic Unveils the RG CubeXX

Pros:

• Affordable: Great value at a lower price compared to more powerful options.
• Compact Design: The 1:1 square aspect ratio makes it highly portable and unique.
• User-Friendly Controls: The D-Pad up top improves the ergonomics for retro gaming.
• Versatile Color Options: Minimalist White and Sophisticated Gray offer classy looks.

Cons:

• Limited Power: Doesn’t support high-demand gaming like GameCube or PS2.
• No Active Cooling: Removal of the fan could affect heat management in longer sessions.
• Lower Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.2 is a step back compared to the RG Cube’s Bluetooth 5.0.

Key Features 🔑✨

1. Display: 3.95-inch IPS screen with 720×720 resolution.
2. Processor: Powered by the Unisoc H700 (quad-core, 1.5 GHz).
3. Operating System: Runs on 64-bit Linux for simplicity.
4. Connectivity: Includes 5G WiFi and Bluetooth 4.2.
5. Battery: 5,200 mAh for extended gaming sessions.
6. Color Options: Minimalist White, Classic Black, and Sophisticated Gray.

Introduction

Anbernic has consistently catered to the retro gaming community with innovative handhelds, and their latest release, the RG CubeXX, continues that tradition. Announced shortly after the RG Cube’s debut, the CubeXX is designed to address specific user feedback while maintaining a budget-friendly approach. By incorporating the H700 chipset and a D-Pad on top, the CubeXX offers a more streamlined version of the Cube for those who don’t need higher-end specs or PS2 and GameCube compatibility.

In this review, we’ll break down the key features of the RG CubeXX, assess its performance, and help you decide if this new handheld is worth adding to your collection.

Design

Anbernic’s RG CubeXX maintains the compact, square form factor of its predecessor. With a 3.95-inch IPS display and a 1:1 aspect ratio, it stands out from the traditional handheld design, offering a unique aesthetic that many retro gamers will appreciate. The smaller size makes it easy to carry around, perfect for on-the-go gaming.

The color options—Minimalist White, Classic Black, and Sophisticated Gray—add a level of sophistication to the device, giving users the chance to pick a handheld that matches their personal style. The white-on-white option, in particular, is sleek and modern, a significant departure from the more vibrant options on the RG Cube.

The major design change is the D-Pad placement. Moving the D-Pad to the top of the console is a nod to classic handhelds like the Game Boy, making it a more comfortable option for playing older, 8-bit and 16-bit games. Retro gamers will appreciate the tactile feedback and responsiveness of the D-Pad, which makes navigating old-school platformers a breeze.

Though the RGB lighting on the joysticks remains, the CubeXX lacks the active cooling fan that came with the original RG Cube. This omission might be a drawback for users planning longer gaming sessions, as heat management could become an issue over time.

Performance

At the heart of the RG CubeXX is the Unisoc H700 processor, a quad-core chip clocked at 1.5 GHz. While it’s not the most powerful processor out there, it handles retro games exceptionally well, particularly for systems like NES, SNES, and even PlayStation 1. The 1GB of RAM is sufficient for the Linux OS and the lighter games it’s built to run.

Compared to the Unisoc Tiger T820 found in the original RG Cube, the H700 is more modest but serves its purpose. If you’re not aiming for PS2 or GameCube emulation, this level of performance will be more than enough for the kinds of retro games that many users are likely to play on the CubeXX.

The battery life is a standout feature. With a 5,200 mAh capacity, the CubeXX can easily last through extended gaming sessions. Users can expect around 6-8 hours of gameplay on a full charge, depending on the game and settings. While it lacks the active cooling fan, the device’s heat doesn’t build up too quickly, making it more than manageable for shorter sessions.

Another perk is the 5G WiFi connectivity, though the Bluetooth 4.2 is a bit of a letdown compared to the RG Cube’s more advanced Bluetooth 5.0. This could make pairing controllers slightly less reliable, but for solo handheld gaming, it shouldn’t be a major issue.

Latest Deals

If you’re looking to get your hands on the Anbernic RG CubeXX, now might be the perfect time. Early listings have shown prices around $70, making it one of the most affordable handhelds in its category. Retailers like AliExpress and Amazon often offer pre-order discounts, so keep an eye out for those as well. Additionally, some online communities have reported limited-edition color options and bundle deals that include extra accessories like screen protectors and carrying cases.

Final Thoughts

The Anbernic RG CubeXX is a great addition to the handheld market, particularly for retro gamers who want a portable, affordable option. While it doesn’t have the raw power of the original Cube, the addition of a D-Pad and the choice of colors make it a more user-friendly and visually appealing device. For those who don’t need PS2 or GameCube emulation, the CubeXX is an excellent option.

Overall, this is a handheld designed for casual retro gamers, and it succeeds in filling that niche perfectly. If Anbernic can address the minor concerns regarding heat and connectivity, the CubeXX could easily become a fan favorite in its class.

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