The Retroid Pocket 2+ has been on the market for a couple years now. However, this device holds a special place in our hearts—it was our very first retro handheld. Given its significance to our journey into retro gaming, it only made sense that our first device review would be dedicated to this beloved console.
The Retroid Pocket 2+ is an impressive handheld console perfect for retro gaming enthusiasts. It builds upon the success of its predecessor, the Retroid Pocket 2, offering a blend of nostalgia and modern performance.
Design and Build Quality
The Retroid Pocket 2+ is compact and portable, easily fitting into a pocket or bag. Its solid build quality and matte finish make it feel durable and premium. The button layout is intuitive, with responsive buttons and an improved D-pad for precise control. The addition of analog sticks enhances gameplay for 3D titles.
Display
The 3.5-inch IPS display is bright and vibrant, offering sharp visuals that bring retro games to life. Its 640×480 resolution is perfect for retro titles, ensuring crisp visuals without pixelation or blurring.
Performance
The Retroid Pocket 2+ boasts an upgraded processor, significantly improving performance compared to its predecessor. It handles a wider range of emulators and games, including demanding titles from consoles like the PlayStation Portable (PSP) and Nintendo 64.
A community-created spreadsheet details an extensive game compatibility list and recommended settings (http://tinyurl.com/RP2PlusGameSettings).
The device excels at playing GameBoy Advance and Nintendo DS games. While the single-screen experience for DS games might not be ideal for all titles, it suffices for most.
Operating System and Customization
The Android-based operating system allows users to install various emulators and apps from the Google Play Store. The Retroid Launcher simplifies navigation and customization. Multitasking is smooth, and the device offers plenty of customization options for those who like to tinker.
Battery Life
Battery life is decent, offering around 5-6 hours of gameplay on a single charge. The USB-C charging port ensures faster and more convenient charging.
Game Library and Emulation
The Retroid Pocket 2+ supports a wide range of emulators, allowing you to play games from classic systems like the NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, Game Boy Advance, and more. The improved hardware also means that it can handle PlayStation 1 and even some PlayStation 2 games.
While most emulators run well, some may require tweaking settings for optimal performance. Demanding PSP and N64 titles might experience occasional frame drops or stuttering.
Final Thoughts
The Retroid Pocket 2+ is an excellent choice for retro gaming enthusiasts. Its compact design, improved performance, and flexibility make it a standout handheld emulation device. While not a replacement for main gaming consoles, it’s perfect for gaming on the go and offers hours of entertainment with a vast library of classic games.
If you’re a fan of retro games, the Retroid Pocket 2+ is a solid investment that delivers a great gaming experience at a reasonable price. It’s a go-to device for reliving the best of the GameBoy Advance and Nintendo DS eras.