Ayaneo Pocket DMG: GameBoy-Inspired Handheld Launches Crowdfunding from $339

Ayaneo has just unveiled its latest innovation on IndieGogo—the Ayaneo Pocket DMG, a handheld device reminiscent of the beloved GameBoy that boasts Qualcomm’s Snapdragon G3X Gen 2 chip. This compact gadget flaunts an OLED screen and is available for early backers starting at just $339. While the base model offers 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, the premium version jumps to a hefty $499, offering 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. For those fond of nostalgia, a Limited Edition “Retro Color” version is up for grabs at an early-bird price of $589.

Despite its competitive pricing, the Pocket DMG’s Snapdragon chip ensures a top-notch mobile gaming experience. It smoothly delivers fan-favorites like Genshin Impact at 60 frames per second and supports console emulation for GameCube and PlayStation 2 games without a hitch. Admittedly, if your primary goal is playing a wide range of games and you’re not augmenting an existing PC handheld setup, Valve’s Steam Deck might offer more bang for your buck with its broader game compatibility, though at the cost of an OLED screen.

Beyond the specs and price tags, this handheld packs a punch in terms of features. Its design includes hidden triggers nestled between the main shoulder buttons, optional motion controls, and a right-side touchpad. Perfect for modern gaming, especially streaming directly from your PC, it’s a versatile tool. Even the small analog stick is hall-effect, which helps fend off stick drift over time—a detail that savvy gamers will appreciate.

Although some might see an OLED display as over-the-top for its 3.92-inch screen, it’s a deliberate choice given the trend towards high-fidelity displays. While devices like the Analogue Pocket go for high-resolution LCDs, Ayaneo’s Pocket DMG incorporates an OLED screen with a resolution of 1,240 x 1,080 pixels. It boasts an impressive 104% NTSC color gamut and can reach brightness levels of up to 450 nits. Thanks to OLED’s low input latency, the Pocket DMG could indeed be a retro gaming enthusiast’s dream, albeit not quite a replacement for the Steam Deck OLED or powerful PC handsets for AAA gaming.

When it comes to emulation and Android gaming, the Pocket DMG stands out as a premium option. Even though the 12GB or 16GB RAM versions might seem excessive, they’re justified given the demands of contemporary mobile games and emulation. The smart move might be to go with the base model and expand storage with an SD card as needed, maximizing your investment.

Additionally, it’s noteworthy that the Ayaneo Pocket DMG supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 through a Type-C port, allowing up to 10 Gigabits of data transfer. It also features Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3. While the wired options aren’t groundbreaking, they suffice for smaller game and file transfers. The real gem here is Wi-Fi 7, which supports speeds up to 30 Gigabits per second—a bonus if you’re into Steam Remote Play or similar activities.

As a gentle reminder, before backing a crowdfunded project, keep in mind that there’s always an element of risk. When you pledge support, you’re essentially investing in the future of the project rather than purchasing a finished product. So, ensure you’re genuinely interested and willing to take that leap of faith.