GoRetroid teased this device a few weeks back, alongside the reveal of the new Retroid Pocket Flip 2, which makes me believe they're ready to take ownership of the handheld emulator scene throughout 2025.
They have the Retroid Pocket 5 and the Retroid Pocket Mini on the market that can currently emulate up to PS2 in a horizontal form -factor, and now they're going back to their roots with a vertical, pocketable size to take on the RG35XX and TRIMUI Brick.
This style, size and typical cost of a vertical "mini" handheld like this is incredibly popular and is where many newcomers look for their first retro handheld, so I am not surprised to see GoRetroid dabble in this area.
However, I hope that it doesn't come with a $100+ price-tag, and isn't jam-packed with power because... let's face it, a 1x1 display limits itself to certain consoles, and when emulating PSP, PS2 or Gamecube games on that type of screen, it isn't a pleasant experience to say the least.
Enjoy the classics on the Retroid Pocket Classic pic.twitter.com/oPIPsGIc5h
— Retroid Pocket Official (@Retroid0fficial) March 5, 2025
That said, I believe GoRetroid will craft a beautiful little device that will please many retro gaming fans, especially if it's paired with their new delightful OS. In comparison to its competitors such as ANBERNIC, it's one of the easiest to use on the market.
The colour choices are flawless too and is a nod to the Game Boy Color models that released in the late 90's and early 2000's going as far as mimicking the special edition Pokemon color-way too, which is my favourite of the bunch, hopefully it has a blue back shell too.
No information regarding release date or pricing has been announced yet but once GoRetroid teases a product it's usually available to pre-order over the next month or two, so stay tuned for that, we will create a news post on that, or subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed.
My guess is $99, emulation up to N64 and Dreamcast, fast shipping, super-crips display and high quantity of stock. Who knows, they may have two variants, one being less powerful and more affordable, the other being stacked with as much as possible?
I also noticed in GoRetroid's X post that it showcased a version of the Classic with Sega Saturn styled action buttons which did catch me by surprise as its the only version with this style.
Could this be a limited edition variant? Or simply a model with a unique button layout? Either way its a nice surprise and although I can't see many people buying it, it will certainly please SEGA fans for sure.
Leave your thoughts in the comments below!
