I don't mind cases that have a retro gaming touch. I have reviewed the GAMEBABY case this year, which added GAME Boy-like controls to the iPhone 16 Pro Max, and I kinda digged it.
However, it is odd to me that Xiaomi, of all companies, have teased a phone case with retro gaming touches for a device that isn't even out yet, for a screen no bigger than a little finger.
I get it, this is promoting the second screen on the back of the device, which is one of their new features, which surrounds the cameras, but did their marketing team really believe that inventing a whole new case for this specific 2.7" display would lead customers into buying a whole new phone?
Retro gaming is on the comeback, i'll give Xiaomi the credit there, but i can't help but notice that this is going to be an incredibly unpleasant gaming experience for... well, anyone wanting to game on the back display.
Firstly, the cameras obstruct the screen, so almost one-third of the display is invisible. Additionally, the ergonomics and button choices are questionable. The DPAD used is a circular pad, which isn't enjoyable to use (take it from someone who spent years playing the SEGA Mega Drive).
The DPAD even features L/R to let you know if you're confused about which direction is indeed left or right... The start and select buttons are around the wrong way if you compare them to the original GAME BOY, and I am guessing the case takes power from the device itself?
I love the effort and want retro gaming to be more mainstream on modern phones, but this is not the way to go in my opinion, especially if you're trying to entice gamers to buy your device specifically to play retro games using 66% of the 2.7" screen.
I will enjoy seeing this come to fruition because of its ridiculousness, but I can't imagine it's going to do the numbers.
