Reviews
The official unveiling of the Retroid Pocket Flip Clamshell Handheld Emulator has been announced.
The Retroid Pocket Flip has been a long time coming, with multiple leaks and even a teaser from GoRetroid last week. Finally, the team has officially unveiled the highly-anticipated device.
Produced by the same team responsible for the notorious Retroid Pocket 3+, the Retroid Pocket Flip is an eagerly anticipated emulator housed in a clamshell design.
Past leaks bear a striking resemblance to the end product, suggesting that the speculated Retroid Pocket vertical GBC style leak may soon come to fruition.
Undoubtedly, the primary standout feature is the design. Although Powkiddy and GPD have made efforts to introduce clamshell handhelds in the past, this one is expected to be the first reasonably priced variation of its kind.
GoRetroid has a tendency to offer prices lower than their competitors while providing their handhelds with ample power, making them a valuable investment.
Crafted with high-gloss plastic, the clamshell boasts a sleek appearance. It shuts firmly, complete with grips around the screen to fend off wear and tear. The lid follows a curved design, which appeals to my personal taste.
The latest handheld gaming system appears to follow the trend of using flared shoulder buttons to ensure a comfortable gaming experience. The inclusion of smaller R3/L3 buttons, which can be mapped, suggests that it may deliver superior performance in comparison to previous models. This could potentially allow users to enjoy the best Gamecube and PS2 games, but it is too soon to say for certain, as the specs have not yet been revealed.
To enhance ergonomics and utility, the handheld’s shoulder buttons protrude from its shell. This design feature also enables the addition of larger buttons, preventing the device from lying flat on a surface.
The device comes equipped with a USB-C port and a headphone jack, in addition to a mini-HDMI port that can be used to connect it to a display. Ideally, it should also have built-in Bluetooth compatibility, allowing for seamless connectivity with wireless controllers.
The flat analogue sticks, known as “sliders,” are set within the shell to enable the lid to close. Although they’re not the most comfortable sticks out there, it seems we have no choice but to stick with them. Unless they’re capable of twisting and popping out, there’s no way around it.
According to public statements by GoRetroid, the Retroid Pocket Flip is now furnished with advanced double injection molded action buttons that boast unparalleled durability. With GoRetroid assuring that they will resist chipping, fading, and smudging, users can expect long-lasting, reliable performance from their device.
The device’s chin houses what appears to be a start/select button and a handle for effortless screen flipping. Expect to find the volume buttons on the side, alongside a reset button, with a front-facing headphone jack and a TF card slot.
The design’s nitty-gritty, screw location, and fan arrangement are all visible from a closer perspective on the underside.
The Retroid Pocket Flip boasts a unique “limited edition 001” emblem. Interestingly enough, the “sport red” version is a limited edition product, with each unit being assigned a number.
The “sport red” edition has a strictly limited availability of just 1500 units, and it will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, 30 lucky customers will receive an exciting range of complimentary goodies, such as a Retroid Pocket 3+ and an 8BITDo controller, along with screen protectors and other exclusive items.
With only 1500 units available, it’s probable that they will be sold out in a matter of minutes. So, don’t get too optimistic about securing one for yourself.
My general impression of the product’s design is positive, acknowledging that the current presentation may differ slightly upon release. However, as far as clamshell products go, this design is everything one could ask for.
My only apprehension is the possibility of a Retroid Pocket Flip+ being launched just six weeks after the Retroid Pocket 3, as it did in the past.
