The Flippable Handheld That's a Fun Fidget Toy

Summary

The Anbernic RG Rotate is a unique emulation handheld that brings back the fun of a flip phone, designed for quick gaming sessions and portability. It can emulate games from Game Boy up to DS, and even some GameCube titles, though slowly. Its standout feature is the hinge, allowing it to flip open for play and automatically go to sleep when closed, making it a great fidget toy. While smaller and more pocketable than a GBA SP, its screen is always exposed, necessitating a screen protector. The aluminum body is sturdy but adds weight, and the hinge durability is yet to be tested. Controls are cramped and uncomfortable for extended play, and the D-pad has issues. However, its 720x720 square screen displays retro games well, especially Game Boy and 4:3 aspect ratios. The single mono speaker is poorly placed, and it lacks a headphone jack, relying on Bluetooth or USB-C for audio. It runs Android, coming pre-loaded with emulators, including a 3DS emulator, though performance for demanding games is limited. The RG Rotate is not for powerful gaming but excels at providing a fun, nostalgic experience for around $100, with the silver metal version costing $108 and the plastic black version $88. It's an interesting option for those seeking a unique and playful entry into retro handheld gaming.