MagicX have entered the retro space at speed and are doing their best to make an impact in the handheld emulator world. They've been teasing new handhelds en masse and have already released their single-screen DS and their One 35 handheld with two D-pads (yes, you read that right). They won't revolutionise the world, and the quality isn't exactly what you'd call premium, but they're targeting the normal gamer who wants an affordable console that isn't going to drain their entire bank balance, and I respect that.
And now, they've announced in a little teaser that they're exploring the concept of a vertical handheld in a new design for a console called the Pocket Dream. They've taken to Discord to let us all know that the Pocket Dream is going to essentially be an evolution of the previously advertised Mini Dream, which they've also hinted is still on its way as well.
MagicX claim that they're going for a vertical handheld that makes you think of the Game Boy and the WonderSwan. Their first design, which you'll see below, also makes me think of the Powkiddy RGB20S, but I think that's because of the little smiley face that you end up seeing with the light at the bottom of the handheld. They've stated that it's going to be 'better for one-handed play, ideal for commuting, short sessions, or quick pick-up-and-play moments.'
In terms of specs, the Pocket Dream is still going to have a 3.3" OLED display like the Mini Dream. It'll have the same specs as the Mini Dream, powered by Rockchip RK3566 (Linux version) and with a 3,500mAh battery, which I imagine means will cost around $100 or lower.
The handheld is still in the design stage, but MagicX have given these initial specs for us to mull over:
- Size: 107 × 72 × 22 mm
- Display: 3.3-inch OLED
- Same 4 SoC variants as Mini Dream (covering both Linux and Android)
The first design for the Pocket Dream had two joysticks just below the screen (again, like the aforementioned Powkiddy RGB20S), a D-pad, and the traditional action buttons you find on most handhelds these days. And you know what, they're onto a huge winner with that GameCube-inspired design. Put those colours on anything and I'll buy them in a heartbeat!
The second design, after feedback from the community, swapped the joystick and D-pad arrangement around. The button at the bottom that reminded me of the Powkiddy smile has moved up, and the new design has more of a Trimui Brick feel to it. It looks professional, but I'm just not a fan of the joysticks at the bottom of the handheld - I find them hard to use, but that's just me.
I'm going to assume that these are the four colour schemes alluded to in the tease on Discord, and I'm happy about that because they all look ace. I'm not sure how comfortable this thing is going to be to play, so I'll reserve judgement on it until it's actually in our hands. As I said, I don't think it will feel premium, but I don't think my wallet will feel like it's been hit over the head after purchasing it either - swings and roundabouts.
The new promo images in the second design allude to the fact that MagicX are claiming the Pocket Dream will be capable of playing up to GameCube & PS2, with Super Mario Sunshine and God of War II being used on each handheld. The Mangmi Air X managed PS2 emulation for under $100, so it's possible at that price point, though with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 and not a Rockchip. If they can pull it off, it would be a great purchase for anyone feeling the pinch at the minute (which is all of us!).
Keep your eyes peeled for more info as and when it arrives!
