Ayaneo has stepped into the world of crowdfunding with its new Ayaneo Pocket DMG on IndieGogo. This GameBoy-inspired handheld is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon G3X Gen 2, launching with enticing Early Bird offers. The entry-level version with 8GB of RAM and 128GB storage begins at just $339 USD. For those seeking something more powerful, there’s a high-end model with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage priced at $499. There’s also a Limited Edition “Retro Color” version available for $589 for early backers.
For its cost, this handheld device offers impressive performance thanks to the Snapdragon chip. It can handle demanding mobile games like Genshin Impact at a stable 60 FPS and even emulates older consoles up to the GameCube and PlayStation 2 generation with ease, even at higher resolutions. While Valve’s Steam Deck might offer a broader game library and better value, especially if you’re complementing an existing PC handheld, the Pocket DMG holds its own ground with high-tech features.
One of its standout features is its 3.92-inch OLED display, delivering impressive visuals with a resolution of 1,240 x 1,080 and an estimated 104% NTSC color gamut with brightness up to 450 nits. For retro gaming enthusiasts, the OLED’s low latency is a boon. While it won’t compete as a top-tier AAA gaming device like the Steam Deck OLED, it offers a stunning visual experience for its size.
Looking beyond its specs and price, the Ayaneo Pocket DMG is surprisingly feature-rich for its size. You’ll find thoughtfully designed controls including hidden trigger buttons, motion-sensing capabilities, and a responsive touchpad, all delivering a comprehensive input experience. The small but mighty hall-effect analog stick promises durability by resisting drift over time.
Despite its compact form, the Ayaneo Pocket DMG competes as a high-quality option for emulators and Android games. Although the models with 12GB and 16GB of RAM might seem excessive for a non-PC handheld, today’s mobile games and emulation can demand serious power. For the best value, consider starting with the entry-level model and expanding storage with an SD card later on.
Connectivity is another strong point, with the device supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2 through a Type-C port, offering speeds up to 10 Gigabits per second, plus Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3. While the wired connections won’t wow you, they’re perfectly functional for transferring smaller games and files. The Wi-Fi 7 support, however, is a game-changer, especially for using features like Steam Remote Play.
One important reminder: backing a project on a crowdfunding platform is more of an investment than a purchase. It involves believing in the project and contributing to its potential success, with no absolute guarantee of receiving a finished product.
