Absolutely. Damn, it’s so beautiful I still may add this. I know we have many T618 handhelds out there, Anbernic really should have thrown that into here!
It looks comfortable to hold and it is, according to other reviewers. For me that's far more important than performance. But - I agree with you - it should at least perform well enough to run Saturn games with a device looking so SEGA good!
I was really hoping the new retrobit controller was going to have full sized joysticks and analog triggers. such a let down, because the first version they teased was endgame controller for me
And a circle d-pad! I have a m30 controller, i like dpad MUCH more than Nintendo style ones, but that is not a "real" controller. I like there is 6 buttons, but i don't like their form, i want grips and i miss other buttons and sticks
Out of the top retro game reviewers. The Phawx is probably the only one, that actually plays Fighting games. Well... Him and Wicked Gamer. Anbernic drop the ball on the chip they put in the RG Arc handhelds though. Hopefully Retroid Pocket will still, make old new again. And make a Retroid Pocket 1S🤞
Thanks for getting this review out so quickly! I would normally go with the Linux only version but I really want the all black version. So glad the d pad is as good as it should be!
I just want a 6-button device that plays Dreamcast and prior accurately. Sometimes I get excited when I see something like this... but then I see the power beneath the hood and my dreams are shattered.
It's a shame it isn't powerful enough to be the ultimate SEGA handheld. The design is awesome! I guess when it comes to the 2D arcade ports for the Saturn and Dreamcast, we can play those through arcade emulators instead. But yeah, the device is ALMOST there!
Yeah I was excited when I saw this but I'm hoping they eventually come out with a product with an analog stick and that is a bit more powerful to focus on Saturn and Dreamcast games.
@6:25 I also love the model 1 controller. both model 1 & 2 , and even the 3d control pad, all of them are awesome. The saturn had really good controllers. not sure why people hate on model 1 controller tbh...
I hope this Handheld sets the stage for more Handhelds with Circular D-Pads. I hope Trimui brings back the Circular D-Pad design from their Trimui Model S Handheld. It's like a mix between a Genesis and GBA SP D-Pad.
For me, this is Nomad 2. I'll I wanted was a six button layout with a good screen that could play arcade and genesis and stacked shoulder buttons if I ever needed them. All it's missing is the sega logo. I've been waiting twenty five years for this. Sold.
Just send a ticket to Anbernic regarding the development of an upgraded version with a stronger SoC like the Tiger T618 found in the RG405V and RG505, bigger battery like also found in these two handhelds (5500mAh from the 405V would be great) and possibly an OLED screen. I don't expect much to come out of it but who knows. Maybe more people should contact them about this, especially if they are also interested in Saturn emulation. The more I think about the current model, the more of a let down it is with its weak SoC and smaller battery size.
I agree. If they came out with a model that was a bit more powerful for running Saturn games and maybe an analog stick, etc I wouldn't hesitate to buy one.
How are the buttons mapped? Are each their own button or do two of the six face buttons mirror two of the shoulder buttons like how retrobit's 2.4 ghz controller's have z and c act as l2 and r2 respectively?
The d-pad makes this tempting. I loved the Genesis 6 button controller d-pad, and the very similar Saturn controller 2 d-pad. This would be great for old arcade machines emulation. If it could handle Saturn really well also, it would be even more tempting. Of course I just picked up the Powkiddy RGB30 for the screen and how good it is for emulating old handhelds and using Pico 8.
Shitty that they color-locked the ARC-S to only Transparent black or Transparent blue. Only the ARC-D can you get the classic Saturn Black or Classic Saturn Grey colorway.
If this were a few months earlier, and it had a stronger chip, it’d be perfect. Considering it’s shaped like a Genesis/Saturn controller, and it can barely run one of those systems.
This Handheld would have been better with Analog Sticks and an Amlogic A311D or A311D2. You'd have almost if not all Sega Saturn and below Emulation at full speed with both Linux and Android bootability.
Automatic buy for me. Will be getting the dual OS version since I want the black colorway. I do wonder if running Yaba Sanshiro Pro 2 via Android will give any kind of performance bump to Saturn. I plan to test once I have mine.
I see what you are saying about performance. I have bought a few of these, and controls were the biggest issue for me. If a device has perfect control like you displayed here, then I am actually thinking of getting one. That dpad is a huge selling point for me. I love all of Sega's Ds. Lol. Except the dreamcasts.
Do you think the TMNT port will be included in the 16gb version or do you think it will be included in the 16gb + 128gb? As I do not own the game/port and as they showed it in their official unboxing video. @@Pridetoons
love those 6-buttons and Japan Saturn design. I want this. BONUS POINTS for the screen 4:3 aspect ratio. Don't add analogue sticks. if they could just make the screen ever so slightly larger, and like everyone says, make it actually powerful enough to be compatible with the Saturn games
I like it its cute.. Its specific but oh well. I'm more of a netbook type of guy. Netbooks are still being sold btw! And I don't mean chromebooks! ... currently N5000 and N4020 are the CPUs used and they are more or less now at GeForce 4 Ti 4800 type of 3D Mark 2001 SE scores. However I'm sure the models in 2025 should be good enough for 6th generation console emulation. So those 11.6 inch displays + Dual Sense controller and you have a lot of fun. I'm using ASUS E200HA which is like GeForce 3 Ti500 and can do max 2003 PC games at resolutions that were common at the time.. 800x600 but usually I have a custom resolution that is close to 480p and widescreen.
No idea what the netbooks you mention cost compared to GPDs, but why not get the GPD, better gaming chops, yes? GPD does not have the Asus, Lenovo accessibility or Valve support, but netbook vs handheld.
@@bipbop3121 Netbooks usually max 200 dollars while GPD costs soo much so that I can build 2 entirely good gaming systems to be better fit for the games I'd love to play. Netbooks have 5-7 watt CPUs and the whole device uses max 33 watts (at least that's the charger) ..so yeah, display, speakers, keyboard, bluetooth, 5th generation console gaming or even some Tekken 6 on PPSSPP all in 33 watts..on a nice 11.6 inch display and keyboard on x86 CPU
@@Captain_Dunsel A lot of SNES games use 8 Directions like Super Castlevania and Contra. Also there's many Arcade like games and Space Shooters. As for DS yeah you're right it's not as pocketable but having one screen on a Handheld is still a lot cleaner than having the two screens like the DS. Plus like I said before many DS games don't require both screens and can be easily played with one screen.
You keep talking about how this RG-ARC (and also the 8BitDo controller you showed) are modeled after the Sega Saturn Model 2 controller, however they are clearly modeled after the 6-button Mega Drive controller IMMO. 6:20 I have rented a model 1 Saturn a couple of times back in the day ( couldn't afford to buy one outright unfortunately ) and although the D-pad was very playable, it did give me blisters on my thumb when playing for longer periods at a time. I have never had my hands on a Saturn model 2 controller, but I do know that I REALLY liked the 6-button Mega Drive controller. Might have to get one of those 8BitDo ones…
It seems great! - Please describe the D-pad for us who don't own a Saturn. Is it clicky or mushy or inbetween? - rubber membrane? - is its feel similar to any popular controller's or handheld's D-pad? - perhaps like an Xbox 360 D-pad? - or the D-pad on a newer Xbox controller?
It's a membrane based D-Pad that rolls and tilts. It's great for Arcade and any games that use heavy Diagonals like Super Castlevania or Metal Slug. Also Fighting games are a dream with this D-Pad.
I have a rg35xx and while it's convenient and pocket friendly I don't like playing megadrive on it due to the dpad,button layout, cramped grip and single speaker. I pre ordered the black one mainly for megadrive and other 2d systems...can't wait
Now if only they released the RG353P with this d-pad. Was the only thing holding me back from buying one, cant have fighting games get screwed up. Really wanted the android on it for moonlight + tailscale to away-from-home stream my 4080 desktop
i only want this to play sega saturn games and genesis games with the nice dpad and 6 button layout. I wish it had one joystick for dreamcast. Since it can't even play all sega saturn games, what would be a better purchase for a handheld that can play sega saturn and dreamcast and somehow let me use shoulder buttons or somethign for 6 button games?
Doesn't the fact this doesn't emulate all Saturn games perfectly kind of defeat the purpose of going with the classic Saturn controller design in the first place? Similar to making an emulation handheld that looks exactly like the Dreamcast controller, but can barely emulate DC games. Just my opinion. Like someone else mentioned, this one was ALMOST there.
Great video as always, great focused content on my beloved Sega. I hope I can get to see a video as good on the RK3566 DOS Portmaster performance. PC games in my palm with an age we live in.
Thanks for your review. A few things: 1- *I think the 2GB of RAM (instead of 1GB) CAN make a difference regarding N64 and Dreamcast.* I have a 353M (with 2GB of RAM) and Soulcalibur (and most games I have tested on it) work perfectly on it, where the 353PS (which only have 1GB of RAM) struggles a lot more... 2- ... and a custom OS could also increase the device's performance and use that extra RAM. For instance, "Recalbox" (among other custom OS) was adapted for the 353M, and could easily be installed on this device. 3- in addition of the D-Pad, another quality of the device lies in its screen. 4 inches with a 4:3 ratio and a 640x480 resolution is MUCH better than most current devices in the $50-150 price range.
As the 353P wasn't a big seller, makes sense to re-release it with better controls. Very helpful review Phawx as it re-iterates thoughts on Linux only. Phawx, have you tried 353P Jelos or ArkOS firmware on this?
First things first, does the battery offer a circuit that allows for proper charge state measurement unlike devices like the 351V, where is only guesses via voltage and is really bad at doing so? I really want this new handheld but that it doesn't offer the power to properly emulate all Saturn games is a big let down. Also I would like an OLED screen and a bigger battery (RG405V has a 5500mAh one). But if it can't handle Shining the Holy Ark, I don't really want it. Besides performance, image quality and battery, I would prefer the pure Linux model but with the black shell that only the dual boot version offers. It's feels bad to have to spend 20 bucks more just to get the more classic SEGA black as it reminds me of the MD controllers and even the Game Gear. I'm used to the SS model 1 controller as this is what I had as I bought the Saturn very early in it's life time (Europe). I'm not too sure what to think about the model 2 controller, which I now also got, but it still feels better than Nintendo style D-Pads. Well, you could always go worse with something like the PSX one... :P PS: Is it just me, or does it feel like these companies bring out less than optimal devices and then improve upon them in small steps just so they can sell us multiple devices?
@@SRC267 that's a misconception imo. If you include the Japanese library (and translations), the Saturn library is phenomenal. Not as big as the PS1 library obviously, but still full of gems.
The model 1 Saturn controller works beautifully when new. I used to play a lot of fighters when friends came over. In less than a year, I had worn the D-pad because of all the constant use in the fighting games. I like the model 2 controller much better, and for 2D games, I still prefer it to this day! I was looking for a mini bluetooth controller like the 8bitdo zero 2, but one that resembles the Saturn controller with the 6 face buttons. Do you know of any? I contacted 8bitdo months ago about it and they never responded.
11:47 you tell us many times that there are lots of options out there that are much more powerful at just 10$ more but you fail to mention any of them. I tried to google it and there was no 618 like Handheld available for 70-80 bucks.
Does it recognize as a controller if you plug it into windows? I might just get it to have a decent fightpad. My Madcatz SF4 pad is starting to show its age.
Going to get the white with the matching 8bitdo white controller. Planning to try GGPO on it, do you know if it works? Might be a cool video/idea to showcase this as a nice online fighting game handheld.
Is it powerful enough to keep stable 60 FPS in Genesis / SNES cores (Retroarch) when you enable RunAhead mode (which counteracts software emulation input lag)?
Kinda reminds me of the Turbo Touch 360 controllers, almost no one liked them, they took awhile to get down but they worked better if you could use them. They felt like garbage and the buttons sucked but it just worked better IMO.
If Soul Calibur for Dreamcast ran well on this handheld, it would be alot more appealing for the fighting game crowd. Most of these handhelds need 6 buttons on the face so that fighting games are covered along with everything else though... I mean, why not put 6 buttons?
i already have a max 2 and thinking about the X55 if im going for something with a big screen and the ergonomics hmmmm.... max 2 is an awesome device, and so is the X55 which is just better in all departments apart from the asymmetric controls this time
All I want is a high-end SOC on Linux. It needs proper drivers and OS support tho. I would kill for a SD8 Gen1/2/3, 16GB RAM, UFS2/3 storage, OLED device running Linux. I would even settle for a Dimensity 1200 class SOC.
Model 2 D-pad may well be the best ever created. Model 1 sucks... Like another user wrote big missed opportunity to not make this more powerful. Also could've MAYBE fit sticks on it (and analog triggers for racing would've been nice). Also, growing up with the Saturn in PAL territory, I would've wanted a full sexy black version. All of this being said this is a giant step in the right direction from Anbernic. I've been nagging on a bunch of videos, theirs and others, that the Saturn 8-way D-pad is the way to go for AGES. Despite my minor gripes couple of these + arcade games + a good CFW for easily set up local VS without too much lag (for fighting games) would be amazing. 3rd strike, Alpha 3, Darkstalkers, The Last Blade 1 and 2, Samurai Shodown and the list goes on.
@@bankbank No, maybe is just you that have low standards. You can't really call it a "Sega Saturn" handheld if it can't play Nights properly (and dozens of other games that support the analog controller)
![FINALLY, A Handheld For Sega Kids! [RG ARC Review]](/img/1.gif)
Seems like a missed opportunity to me, I'd buy this in a heartbeat if it ran Saturn properly.
This!
Absolutely. Damn, it’s so beautiful I still may add this. I know we have many T618 handhelds out there, Anbernic really should have thrown that into here!
It looks comfortable to hold and it is, according to other reviewers. For me that's far more important than performance. But - I agree with you - it should at least perform well enough to run Saturn games with a device looking so SEGA good!
Exactly why I didn't order it (yet). Still fear that this might be a one off regarding handhelds with SEGA style D-Pad and 6 button layout. :(
Wait until next years model.
We really need to bring 6-face buttons back for modern controllers, man.
I was really hoping the new retrobit controller was going to have full sized joysticks and analog triggers. such a let down, because the first version they teased was endgame controller for me
And a circle d-pad! I have a m30 controller, i like dpad MUCH more than Nintendo style ones, but that is not a "real" controller. I like there is 6 buttons, but i don't like their form, i want grips and i miss other buttons and sticks
@@dracula_ru I agree. hands-down my favorite d-pads are SEGA d-pads, and the original Xbox Duke controller circle d-pad
8bitdo is releasing a wired version with extra bumper button but no sticks it comes out 12/26 @@dracula_ru
And the stick, not the stupid D-pads :/
i’ve never seen a retro handheld pull off that many hadoukens in a row without any issue at that speed. that alone was a good enough endorsement.
Out of the top retro game reviewers. The Phawx is probably the only one, that actually plays Fighting games.
Well... Him and Wicked Gamer.
Anbernic drop the ball on the chip they put in the RG Arc handhelds though.
Hopefully Retroid Pocket will still, make old new again. And make a Retroid Pocket 1S🤞
The shoryuken test is always the way to go. If it can't shoryuken, it's trash.
@@kokujin-r7254agreed. Even if the device has good performance.. the controls have to be good too. If controls suck then everything sucks.
@@christhepocketmasterr That's why we need the classic stick, and not the idiotic D-pad.
My S model just shipped can't wait to get it 🔥
Hello and how are you doing? I am soo new to all this and I also got the S version. Educate me on your reason for purchase i.e. why not the D please?
@@dclassof84 He didn't gave a damn about your question.What a gentleman!
@@BASSstarlet OK
I feel like 4 inch screens should be the norm for handhelds moving forward. Hopefully a GBA SP form factor comes with one at some point.
Hard to go back to the smaller screens after the RG405m alright.
ANBERNIC previewed a sketch of a GBA-SP type clamshell they are working on. Hopefully, it gets the 4 inch display. That's the one I'm waiting on!
What a shame this model is yet another 3.5" device.
@@adamkane7513 is it??? looks bigger than the 353p that he had on screen for abit... the actual screen size? i need to check it out
@@adamkane7513 Spec sheet does says 4.0"
Thanks for getting this review out so quickly! I would normally go with the Linux only version but I really want the all black version. So glad the d pad is as good as it should be!
Same!
@@New-Dronesame here. Do you guys think it’ll be possible to add Google Play Store ourselves? I really hate it isn’t included unlike the 405m.
I just want a 6-button device that plays Dreamcast and prior accurately.
Sometimes I get excited when I see something like this... but then I see the power beneath the hood and my dreams are shattered.
It's a shame it isn't powerful enough to be the ultimate SEGA handheld. The design is awesome! I guess when it comes to the 2D arcade ports for the Saturn and Dreamcast, we can play those through arcade emulators instead. But yeah, the device is ALMOST there!
Yeah I was excited when I saw this but I'm hoping they eventually come out with a product with an analog stick and that is a bit more powerful to focus on Saturn and Dreamcast games.
@6:25 I also love the model 1 controller.
both model 1 & 2 , and even the 3d control pad, all of them are awesome. The saturn had really good controllers.
not sure why people hate on model 1 controller tbh...
I hope this Handheld sets the stage for more Handhelds with Circular D-Pads. I hope Trimui brings back the Circular D-Pad design from their Trimui Model S Handheld. It's like a mix between a Genesis and GBA SP D-Pad.
Forget that! We need handhelds to revive the Neo Geo Pocket clicky stick! I would kill for one of those on a small handheld.
@@chronossage I agree, but one miracle at a time my friend. 😁
Looks amazing! Now I just wish someone would make a version compatible with Saturn and Dreamcast. Same d-pad.
yea if only they put a 618 or even a 610 in this it would be my perfect 5th gen handheld
Sold out already. Love the form factor. Shame its not that little bit more powerful to handle all the Saturn games. That what im looking for.
They're not sold out, the website just says that pre launch. Scroll further and you'll see the countdown, think they go on sale in the next few hours.
Not sold out, sale just hasnt started yet. Goes on pre-sale at 2am PST tonight
@@cal9784 Ty for the heads up
For me, this is Nomad 2. I'll I wanted was a six button layout with a good screen that could play arcade and genesis and stacked shoulder buttons if I ever needed them. All it's missing is the sega logo. I've been waiting twenty five years for this. Sold.
I just bought an rg35xx and am very happy with it...but I will be getting this ASAP.
Just send a ticket to Anbernic regarding the development of an upgraded version with a stronger SoC like the Tiger T618 found in the RG405V and RG505, bigger battery like also found in these two handhelds (5500mAh from the 405V would be great) and possibly an OLED screen. I don't expect much to come out of it but who knows.
Maybe more people should contact them about this, especially if they are also interested in Saturn emulation. The more I think about the current model, the more of a let down it is with its weak SoC and smaller battery size.
I agree. If they came out with a model that was a bit more powerful for running Saturn games and maybe an analog stick, etc I wouldn't hesitate to buy one.
I enjoyed your review greatly. For what its worth, I kept watching even after I finished eating.
How are the buttons mapped? Are each their own button or do two of the six face buttons mirror two of the shoulder buttons like how retrobit's 2.4 ghz controller's have z and c act as l2 and r2 respectively?
very good question
I'm getting this. I'm only interested in old capcom vs arcade games. The 6-button layout is a dream.
Amen plus 3D DS games will be fun with this D-Pad.
The d-pad makes this tempting. I loved the Genesis 6 button controller d-pad, and the very similar Saturn controller 2 d-pad. This would be great for old arcade machines emulation. If it could handle Saturn really well also, it would be even more tempting.
Of course I just picked up the Powkiddy RGB30 for the screen and how good it is for emulating old handhelds and using Pico 8.
Shitty that they color-locked the ARC-S to only Transparent black or Transparent blue. Only the ARC-D can you get the classic Saturn Black or Classic Saturn Grey colorway.
If this were a few months earlier, and it had a stronger chip, it’d be perfect. Considering it’s shaped like a Genesis/Saturn controller, and it can barely run one of those systems.
this, i thought it could /would run saturn games! lol
That's my beef. If this device could make Saturn a Lock in terms of performance, it could have been the "Saturn Mini" we all have been waiting for.
Definitely a missed opportunity - dammit Anbernic!
I would love one of these with an additional analog stick and a T618 to be a perfect N64 machine.
This Handheld would have been better with Analog Sticks and an Amlogic A311D or A311D2. You'd have almost if not all Sega Saturn and below Emulation at full speed with both Linux and Android bootability.
Automatic buy for me. Will be getting the dual OS version since I want the black colorway.
I do wonder if running Yaba Sanshiro Pro 2 via Android will give any kind of performance bump to Saturn. I plan to test once I have mine.
I'm getting the Dual OS version too. I want it for DS Emulation, Game Streaming, and probably Skull Girls on Android.
This would be a dream to play arcade fighters on.
Arcade games in general. 😁
Anbernic got ahead of themselves here. This device should not cost no more than $49.99
What makes you think that price is achievable?
the Sega nomad blew my mind when it came out. Genesis graphics in a handheld so this thing is a godsend.
The cover to video transition always amazes me. And, yes, missed opportunity with Saturn. Still gonna buy it though
I see what you are saying about performance. I have bought a few of these, and controls were the biggest issue for me. If a device has perfect control like you displayed here, then I am actually thinking of getting one. That dpad is a huge selling point for me. I love all of Sega's Ds. Lol. Except the dreamcasts.
Seems a little odd to not mention the larger display size when comparing the size of the device to the RG353P, they haven't just made a bigger casing.
I like it. The only problem with the ARC-S is the clear case for me, I favor the solid one more.
Which one is better for TMNT Shredder's revenge port?
Either one, however the RG-ARC D will allow you to play Android games and do Game Streaming easier.
Do you think the TMNT port will be included in the 16gb version or do you think it will be included in the 16gb + 128gb? As I do not own the game/port and as they showed it in their official unboxing video.
@@Pridetoons
@@detonator000Shredder’s Revenge is free with a Netflix account.
NGL if Anbernic releases a A311D version of this Handheld with Analog Sticks I'd easily buy this Handheld again!
love those 6-buttons and Japan Saturn design. I want this. BONUS POINTS for the screen 4:3 aspect ratio. Don't add analogue sticks. if they could just make the screen ever so slightly larger, and like everyone says, make it actually powerful enough to be compatible with the Saturn games
I like it its cute.. Its specific but oh well. I'm more of a netbook type of guy. Netbooks are still being sold btw! And I don't mean chromebooks! ... currently N5000 and N4020 are the CPUs used and they are more or less now at GeForce 4 Ti 4800 type of 3D Mark 2001 SE scores. However I'm sure the models in 2025 should be good enough for 6th generation console emulation. So those 11.6 inch displays + Dual Sense controller and you have a lot of fun. I'm using ASUS E200HA which is like GeForce 3 Ti500 and can do max 2003 PC games at resolutions that were common at the time.. 800x600 but usually I have a custom resolution that is close to 480p and widescreen.
No idea what the netbooks you mention cost compared to GPDs, but why not get the GPD, better gaming chops, yes?
GPD does not have the Asus, Lenovo accessibility or Valve support, but netbook vs handheld.
@@bipbop3121 Netbooks usually max 200 dollars while GPD costs soo much so that I can build 2 entirely good gaming systems to be better fit for the games I'd love to play. Netbooks have 5-7 watt CPUs and the whole device uses max 33 watts (at least that's the charger) ..so yeah, display, speakers, keyboard, bluetooth, 5th generation console gaming or even some Tekken 6 on PPSSPP all in 33 watts..on a nice 11.6 inch display and keyboard on x86 CPU
Hey phawx did you made a Z1 not extreme analysis if yes do you have a link i can't find it
Does the Dpad Pivot like an Analog stick?
It rolls and tilts.
I can't wait to play DS, SNES, Sega Genesis, and PC-Engine games on this Handheld!
Would this really be a goodpick for DS? Considering you would have to switch from the bottom screen to the top or vice versa depending on the game.
@@marcelosoares7148 A lot of DS games don't require a Second Screen. Having a Single Screen DS would be Cleaner and more Pocketable. 😊
@@Captain_Dunsel A lot of SNES games use 8 Directions like Super Castlevania and Contra. Also there's many Arcade like games and Space Shooters. As for DS yeah you're right it's not as pocketable but having one screen on a Handheld is still a lot cleaner than having the two screens like the DS. Plus like I said before many DS games don't require both screens and can be easily played with one screen.
You keep talking about how this RG-ARC (and also the 8BitDo controller you showed) are modeled after the Sega Saturn Model 2 controller, however they are clearly modeled after the 6-button Mega Drive controller IMMO.
6:20 I have rented a model 1 Saturn a couple of times back in the day ( couldn't afford to buy one outright unfortunately ) and although the D-pad was very playable, it did give me blisters on my thumb when playing for longer periods at a time. I have never had my hands on a Saturn model 2 controller, but I do know that I REALLY liked the 6-button Mega Drive controller. Might have to get one of those 8BitDo ones…
This will make a great modern day "Sega Nomad".
6 face buttons is kinda the best of all worlds. It covers all control variants, including n64...if laid out just right lol
Damn! Your video quality is fantastic and super clear. Good job. 1 question: can you connect earbuds via bluetooth?
It seems great! - Please describe the D-pad for us who don't own a Saturn.
Is it clicky or mushy or inbetween? - rubber membrane? - is its feel similar to any popular controller's or handheld's D-pad? - perhaps like an Xbox 360 D-pad? - or the D-pad on a newer Xbox controller?
It's a membrane based D-Pad that rolls and tilts. It's great for Arcade and any games that use heavy Diagonals like Super Castlevania or Metal Slug. Also Fighting games are a dream with this D-Pad.
@@Pridetoons Hey, thanks a lot for clarifying! :)
@@DavidFilskov No problem! 👍
I have a rg35xx and while it's convenient and pocket friendly I don't like playing megadrive on it due to the dpad,button layout, cramped grip and single speaker. I pre ordered the black one mainly for megadrive and other 2d systems...can't wait
I love my 353p , so comfy for hours of playing.
Now if only they released the RG353P with this d-pad. Was the only thing holding me back from buying one, cant have fighting games get screwed up. Really wanted the android on it for moonlight + tailscale to away-from-home stream my 4080 desktop
i only want this to play sega saturn games and genesis games with the nice dpad and 6 button layout. I wish it had one joystick for dreamcast. Since it can't even play all sega saturn games, what would be a better purchase for a handheld that can play sega saturn and dreamcast and somehow let me use shoulder buttons or somethign for 6 button games?
Doesn't the fact this doesn't emulate all Saturn games perfectly kind of defeat the purpose of going with the classic Saturn controller design in the first place? Similar to making an emulation handheld that looks exactly like the Dreamcast controller, but can barely emulate DC games. Just my opinion. Like someone else mentioned, this one was ALMOST there.
It's a neat niche handheld, but I was never a big Sega guy, so I will hold off. Im sure this is a dream handheld for a lot of folks though
It definitely is for me! 😁
Great video as always, great focused content on my beloved Sega. I hope I can get to see a video as good on the RK3566 DOS Portmaster performance. PC games in my palm with an age we live in.
Nice review! Can you elaborate on the screen a little bit more? How is the viewing angle, and the colors? What about the black levels?
You rock TP! I was waiting on someone to do a deep dive on the d-pad. Now I’m wondering which color should I get? 🤔
Hello, did you try the sound output ? I read that there were background noise... For real ?
Super cool emulator for Sega games, love it!
Will there a comprehensive review for the lenovo go?
At last a modern handheld with 6 FACE BUTTONS ! Ready for comfy Capcom fighting games !
Actually, PowKiddy did the circular D-Pad as well with their X17 console.
That one wasn't all that good TBH. The Sega Genesis and Trimui Model S Circular D-Pads are the best ones I've used.
@@Pridetoons The d-pad of the X-17 works like a charm from my perspective.
Thanks for your review. A few things:
1- *I think the 2GB of RAM (instead of 1GB) CAN make a difference regarding N64 and Dreamcast.* I have a 353M (with 2GB of RAM) and Soulcalibur (and most games I have tested on it) work perfectly on it, where the 353PS (which only have 1GB of RAM) struggles a lot more...
2- ... and a custom OS could also increase the device's performance and use that extra RAM. For instance, "Recalbox" (among other custom OS) was adapted for the 353M, and could easily be installed on this device.
3- in addition of the D-Pad, another quality of the device lies in its screen. 4 inches with a 4:3 ratio and a 640x480 resolution is MUCH better than most current devices in the $50-150 price range.
Yes, eta prime did a review on this device and found out that the N64 games perform better on the Android side. So you are probably right.
but not DC games, that run better on Lynux.... @@johnmcashill9919
Where does every one get their roms? Trying to get back into fightcade
I’ll be picking mine up at 0500EST.
Damn needed to be a Saturn hand held at least! Ah well if it sells maybe new version next month.
10:23 - "Yeah, Buddy!"... Ronnie Coleman approves u,u AHAHAHHAHA
As the 353P wasn't a big seller, makes sense to re-release it with better controls. Very helpful review Phawx as it re-iterates thoughts on Linux only. Phawx, have you tried 353P Jelos or ArkOS firmware on this?
First things first, does the battery offer a circuit that allows for proper charge state measurement unlike devices like the 351V, where is only guesses via voltage and is really bad at doing so?
I really want this new handheld but that it doesn't offer the power to properly emulate all Saturn games is a big let down. Also I would like an OLED screen and a bigger battery (RG405V has a 5500mAh one). But if it can't handle Shining the Holy Ark, I don't really want it.
Besides performance, image quality and battery, I would prefer the pure Linux model but with the black shell that only the dual boot version offers. It's feels bad to have to spend 20 bucks more just to get the more classic SEGA black as it reminds me of the MD controllers and even the Game Gear.
I'm used to the SS model 1 controller as this is what I had as I bought the Saturn very early in it's life time (Europe). I'm not too sure what to think about the model 2 controller, which I now also got, but it still feels better than Nintendo style D-Pads. Well, you could always go worse with something like the PSX one... :P
PS: Is it just me, or does it feel like these companies bring out less than optimal devices and then improve upon them in small steps just so they can sell us multiple devices?
While I think the design is absolutely amazing (as is the Saturn controller), but damn... It should also run Saturn then!
Not many Saturn games tho
@@SRC267 that's a misconception imo. If you include the Japanese library (and translations), the Saturn library is phenomenal. Not as big as the PS1 library obviously, but still full of gems.
AHHHHH FFFF!!!!!!!! i was just about to order the 353p!!!! now a new device comes out!!! stop making me decide!!!!
The model 1 Saturn controller works beautifully when new. I used to play a lot of fighters when friends came over. In less than a year, I had worn the D-pad because of all the constant use in the fighting games. I like the model 2 controller much better, and for 2D games, I still prefer it to this day! I was looking for a mini bluetooth controller like the 8bitdo zero 2, but one that resembles the Saturn controller with the 6 face buttons. Do you know of any? I contacted 8bitdo months ago about it and they never responded.
11:47 you tell us many times that there are lots of options out there that are much more powerful at just 10$ more but you fail to mention any of them.
I tried to google it and there was no 618 like Handheld available for 70-80 bucks.
How was Saturn games performance?
if its reading as a rg353p could we use arkos or jelos as an os?
Does it recognize as a controller if you plug it into windows? I might just get it to have a decent fightpad. My Madcatz SF4 pad is starting to show its age.
Does it jave the same noise that you get on headphones as the 353p/v?
Going to get the white with the matching 8bitdo white controller. Planning to try GGPO on it, do you know if it works? Might be a cool video/idea to showcase this as a nice online fighting game handheld.
i would like to see n64 emulation on lynux to decide if i prefer the cheaper version
Is it powerful enough to keep stable 60 FPS in Genesis / SNES cores (Retroarch) when you enable RunAhead mode (which counteracts software emulation input lag)?
$20 difference between D & S version but how much are they again?
does this come with games preloaded?
And what's adjacent to t-618?
6:25 I LOOOOVE sega saturn Model 1 controller. Its so much better than Model 2.
I only ever had the model 1.
I wish this new Anbernic was based off that instead!
So there’s games installed?
Nice handheld! Too bad they stuck a 3566 chip in there or i’d be all over it. 😢
The D-pad😌
Had to Like after loving the Model 1 Sega Saturn controller. it IS the best.
BUT... didn't review Saturn games on it?!
can you use loke pc joystick and tell us about?
What emulator has Third strike ?
Does this have shining force 3?
For what it’s worth…..I really liked the review 😅
Kinda reminds me of the Turbo Touch 360 controllers, almost no one liked them, they took awhile to get down but they worked better if you could use them. They felt like garbage and the buttons sucked but it just worked better IMO.
Can you play Shining force 3?
If Soul Calibur for Dreamcast ran well on this handheld, it would be alot more appealing for the fighting game crowd. Most of these handhelds need 6 buttons on the face so that fighting games are covered along with everything else though... I mean, why not put 6 buttons?
Can it play Panzer Dragoon Saga? Thx
I never met anyone who liked the model 1 Saturn D-pad.
Bruh, you already have the RG-ARC!!!?
Why wouldn’t he? Content creators always get them early to get their reviews/impressions out prior to release.
What I want to know is if this is Anbernic’s best D-pad or not.
i already have a max 2 and thinking about the X55 if im going for something with a big screen and the ergonomics hmmmm.... max 2 is an awesome device, and so is the X55 which is just better in all departments apart from the asymmetric controls this time
All I want is a high-end SOC on Linux. It needs proper drivers and OS support tho. I would kill for a SD8 Gen1/2/3, 16GB RAM, UFS2/3 storage, OLED device running Linux. I would even settle for a Dimensity 1200 class SOC.
I preordered what sucks is I’ll end up buying an upgraded version of this that plays Saturn 😢
Model 2 D-pad may well be the best ever created. Model 1 sucks...
Like another user wrote big missed opportunity to not make this more powerful. Also could've MAYBE fit sticks on it (and analog triggers for racing would've been nice). Also, growing up with the Saturn in PAL territory, I would've wanted a full sexy black version. All of this being said this is a giant step in the right direction from Anbernic. I've been nagging on a bunch of videos, theirs and others, that the Saturn 8-way D-pad is the way to go for AGES. Despite my minor gripes couple of these + arcade games + a good CFW for easily set up local VS without too much lag (for fighting games) would be amazing. 3rd strike, Alpha 3, Darkstalkers, The Last Blade 1 and 2, Samurai Shodown and the list goes on.
Hmm, I wish this had a more powerful chip. Actually, I wonder why no third party has made Saturn controller style Joy-Cons come to think of it
Anyone tried to run Panzer Dragoon Saga on this? Is it acceptable?
It would be really nice if it had a better CPU, a analog stick and two analog triggers too.
sounds like you want a completely different device
@@bankbank No, maybe is just you that have low standards. You can't really call it a "Sega Saturn" handheld if it can't play Nights properly (and dozens of other games that support the analog controller)