Enthusiastically engaged with Mario Kart World, yet I find it hard to abandon my preferred PS1 racer on this $40 vintage handheld device.
Playing Crash Team Racing on the Cheap: The Anbernic RG28XX Review
I've been playing an obscene amount of Mario Kart World on the new Nintendo Switch 2, but let's face it, the real fun lies in dusting off one of the PS1's best kart racing games on a handheld that won't break the bank. Enter the Anbernic RG28XX.
This pocket-sized emulator device is inspired by the Game Boy Micro and retails for an insanely affordable $39.99 on Amazon (save $15!). It's smaller than you'd think, fitting neatly into that weird tiny jeans pocket you've been ignoring. But it's not just size that makes the RG28XX a standout — it's the awesome price tag and impressive performance.
Get More Bang for Your Buck
The RG28XX isn't just for kart racing enthusiasts; this emulator can handle everything from Game Boy games to PS1 classics. It's easily one of the best retro consoles on the market in terms of price.
But what sets it apart? Well, for starters, it can run games up to the Sega Dreamcast and PSP. And let's not forget about Crash Team Racing. Playing the classic kart racer on this handheld is a dream. Surprisingly, the RG28XX's ergonomics aren't compromised either.
A Little Cramped, but Workable
The RG28XX isn't the comfiest handheld you'll ever hold, but it's far less cramped than you'd expect. The d-pad lives up to its Game Boy ancestry, and the dome buttons, though small, are functional. The shoulder buttons are a bit rattly, but they hold up admirably during intense CTR sessions.
Low-Resolution Screen, but crystal clear
I'll admit, I assumed the RG28XX's budget price would come with a less-than-stellar screen. But I was proven wrong; its 2.83-inch IPS display boasts a low resolution of 640 x 480, resulting in older games looking sharp and crisp without overworking the Mali-G31 MP2 chip. This means better performance and smoother frame rates.
Room for Improvement, but still worth it
There's very little I dislike about the RG28XX, especially considering its price point. The actual build could be a bit sturdier, and managing to run PS2 games would have taken this portable to the next level. But let's be real, for under $40, the RG28XX is a solid choice for some instant, high-quality nostalgia.
So, if you're tired of dropping a fortune on Nintendo's latest console, give the Anbernic RG28XX a try. It's perfect for revisiting Crash Team Racing and other retro classics, all while staying within budget. If you want a premium emulation experience, consider the Retroid Pocket 5 series or the AYANEO Pocket Micro, which offer even more capabilities and performance (anticipated prices around $200–$250).
The Anbernic RG28XX isn't limited to kart racing games; it supports a variety of platforms from Game Boy to Sega Dreamcast. This budget-friendly emulator, priced at $39.99, can handle games up to PSP level.
The RG28XX might not be the coziest handheld, but it's functional with a responsive d-pad and working dome buttons, although the shoulder buttons could be improved.
Contrary to expectations, the RG28XX's screen is impressive, featuring a 2.83-inch IPS display with a low resolution of 640 x 480. This results in crisp visuals for older games and smoother frame rates.
While the build quality could be stronger and it struggles with PS2 games, the RG28XX offers a solid, cost-effective solution for instant, high-quality nostalgia, especially with retro classics like Crash Team Racing.
If you're seeking a more advanced emulation experience, consider the Retroid Pocket 5 series or the AYANEO Pocket Micro, which offer more capabilities and performance for around $200–$250. However, for under $40, the Anbernic RG28XX is an attractive option for adventure, action, and other games from your favorite consoles, along with essential gaming accessories and technology. Keep an eye out for exciting gaming news and latest deals on these devices!
