Switch Up Who? This Tiny Handheld Might Be Your New Favorite

The Ayaneo Pocket Ace is the latest handheld from Ayaneo, designed with a nostalgic flair reminiscent of the Gameboy Micro. Featuring a 4.5-inch 1080p display that boasts vibrant and detailed visuals, the Pocket Ace is similar in size to an average smartphone while incorporating a D-pad, dual analog sticks, and all the necessary buttons for a wide range of gaming.

Ayaneo markets this device as “a genuine gaming-centric retro Android handheld.” It’s equipped with the Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 processor. Although this chip may feel a bit dated, it still offers impressive and reliable performance. Ayaneo asserts that its real-world output rivals that of contemporary gaming smartphones.

This handheld also features a robust 6,000mAh battery that supports 40W fast charging, allowing for extensive gaming sessions without worrying about battery life. For those who often forget to keep their devices charged, the quick charging capability is a significant perk.

Where this handheld excels is in its customization options. Users can adjust the button layout to accommodate both Japanese and western preferences, and they have the flexibility to position the Start/Select buttons either at the top or bottom of the device. If you seek a nostalgic experience while playing classic titles, this device delivers on that front.

The Ayaneo Pocket Ace also incorporates modern features like haptic feedback, allowing you to sense gameplay elements such as the vibration of an engine during a tight turn or the impact of a kick in Street Fighter 2. The joysticks employ Hall Effect technology to prevent stick drift, ensuring a consistently reliable gaming experience.

Managing all these features is Ayaneo’s AYAHome software, which streamlines the configuration of performance modes, button mappings, and more. While there is currently no confirmed release date or price, Ayaneo promises that the handheld is “coming soon.”

This device may not be intended for high-spec AAA games, but it serves as an excellent platform for playing older titles. Based on its specifications, it should adeptly handle many games, including Genshin Impact, and potentially even more demanding options.