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AYANEO Pocket Micro Classic
The AYANEO Pocket Micro Classic stands out as an exceptional handheld console specifically designed for running Game Boy Advance (GBA) games at a 4x upscale resolution. Although its high price point positions it largely for dedicated collectors, it represents the pinnacle of what a modern iteration of the Game Boy Micro can achieve.
Reflecting on my gaming upbringing, while the Super Nintendo Entertainment System symbolized my home console experiences, the Game Boy Advance was pivotal in sparking my passion for gaming. As a teenager, I embraced the GBA lineup, eventually acquiring both standard versions and the GBA SP upon its release. However, the Game Boy Micro never caught my attention. By that time, I had transitioned to the Nintendo DS, which also provided compatibility with GBA cartridges, rendering the Micro less appealing.
Upon receiving the Pocket Micro Classic for review, I approached it without the nostalgic lens that colored my perception of earlier models. Yet, after dedicating time to it over several weeks, it swiftly became my favored method for enjoying GBA titles and more.
A Modern Game Boy Micro
It’s important to note that this iteration of the AYANEO Pocket Micro is the second version. The first model included dual small joystick sticks on its front, whereas the Classic has streamlined this design by omitting them. Personally, I never found the initial joysticks suitable for GBA emulation, making this sleeker design more appealing and practical.
The device draws clear inspiration from the Game Boy Micro, boasting a candy bar shape with a sophisticated metal casing and prominent shoulder buttons. Weighing in at 227 grams, it feels sturdily constructed, offering a comfortable grip though still being portable enough for on-the-go gaming — just be sure to invest in a case for ongoing protection.
I sampled two of its premium color options: Retro Gray and Retro Gold, both of which exhibit stunning craftsmanship. The metal body is visually striking and feels delightful to hold, complemented by a glass front that enhances its aesthetic appeal. Personally, I favored the Retro Gold for its nostalgic Famicom vibe, with bezels that seamlessly integrate into the overall design.
Control-wise, the D-pad and buttons feature a soft touch yet provide sufficient resistance to assure a tactile response. The larger shoulder buttons add an extra element of usability, although the L2 and R2 buttons, while handy, aren’t necessary for GBA gaming and serve better for shortcut customizations instead. Additional buttons on the right allow for further hotkey configurations, including a quick toggle to switch D-pad functionality to the left joystick for playing games from consoles like the N64.
However, I found the placement of the start and select buttons less than ideal, located beneath the D-pad in a chamfered area. The proximity of two additional identical buttons often led to me mistakenly pressing them, which resulted in unintended emulator closures and lost progress.
The Pocket Micro Classic truly elevates the GBA handheld experience.
AYANEO’s AYA Window interface, familiar from previous devices, provides seamless access to controller and performance settings, as well as brightness and volume adjustments, enhancing usability. In contrast, the AYASpace app functions as a front-end for emulators, but I preferred using a more consistent setup across devices instead.
One standout feature is the 3.5-inch IPS display, which, while not OLED, offers an optimal resolution for 4x upscaled GBA graphics. The visual quality is outstanding, making it arguably the best option for GBA emulation. If you’re like me, using different devices for various systems, the Pocket Micro Classic sets the bar high for GBA handhelds.
Overkill Performance
AYANEO is known for exceeding performance expectations in its handhelds, and the Pocket Micro Classic is no different. With a Helio G99 SoC, it is capable of even emulating some PlayStation 2 titles, although manageable gameplay is hindered by the absence of thumbsticks, particularly for this console’s library.
Similarly, while the chipset has the capabilities to handle some N64 and GameCube games, I wouldn’t advise pursuing those on this device; the same applies to PSP titles, where the 3:2 aspect ratio results in less than ideal gameplay experiences.
On the other hand, the excess power proves beneficial for running various Android games accessible on the device. I tested several controller-compatible games, including TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge and Super Meat Boy, all of which provided a delightful gaming experience with less concern over black bars on the display.
Battery life on the 2,600mAh cell yielded around five to six hours of gameplay at full brightness in Balance mode. While not disastrous, it’s less than what I had anticipated, particularly given the physical dimensions of the device that could potentially accommodate a larger battery. Users can extend playtime by using lower power settings or opting for older retro consoles.
Interestingly, I noted the fan’s performance. No matter how much I stressed the system, it remained exceptionally quiet. AYANEO representatives indicated that the fan activates above 40°C, yet it performed silently if engaged. Thankfully, heat output concentrates in the center below the screen, allowing the soft metal finish to remain cool to the touch.
The Pocket Micro Classic’s processing capabilities lend themselves well to advanced shader applications. While it isn’t powerful enough for demanding titles like Genshin Impact, it excels at GBA gaming, showcasing an impressive ability to run intricate shaders without issue — a feature that discerning gamers may appreciate for crafting an authentic retro experience.
AYANEO Pocket Micro Classic Review Verdict: A Collector’s Dream
Ultimately, the AYANEO Pocket Micro Classic is targeted towards dedicated gamers, rather than the broader audience. Priced between $179 and $239, customers can find alternative devices like the Retroid Pocket 5 or Flip 2, capable of emulating a wider range of systems and featuring a more user-friendly form factor.
However, if you’re a collector seeking an elevated experience, the Pocket Micro Classic offers a taste of pixel-perfect GBA graphics enriched by superior shader capabilities. While it may not serve as your first emulation device, it could undoubtedly solidify its status as a final destination for GBA gaming.
Even considering the price tag, it remains the most accessible option within AYANEO’s high-end retro handheld collection. Though not recommended as an initial purchase for GBA emulation, it potentially positions itself as a lasting ideal for those committed to this genre.
For me, it perfectly aligns with my gaming interests, presenting an impressive roster of GBA titles that shaped my childhood, including classics like Advance Wars, Golden Sun, and Metroid Zero Mission. Additionally, the thriving ROM hacking scene offered entertainment through intriguing titles like Super Mariomon on the Pocket Micro Classic.
Though the unique Game Boy Micro design didn’t captivate me two decades ago, I find myself fully embracing it now.
AYANEO Pocket Micro Classic
Exquisite retro aesthetic • Flawless 4x GBA upscaling • Ample capability for shaders
MSRP: $179.00
An evolved Game Boy Micro experience.
The AYANEO Pocket Micro Classic is crafted for GBA enthusiasts, built on an Android platform and influenced by the Game Boy Micro legacy.
Positives
Stunning retro design, Outstanding 4x GBA scaling, Robust shader capabilities, Handy software features
Negatives
High price point, Not suited for newer consoles, Average battery performance
Source
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