Anbernic’s Vita Pro handheld lacks two expected features, but there’s still plenty to appreciate.
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Recently, Anbernic unveiled its new RG Vita range, aiming to breathe new life into Sony’s last portable console. While the PlayStation Portal doesn’t quite fit the bill for retro handhelds, it turns out the “Pro” version is missing two features I expected to be included in the pricier model.
According to a report from sources close to Anbernic, the RG Vita Pro will not feature an OLED display. I assumed this would be a given for the higher-end model, especially since the original Sony portable utilized this technology, which is part of why it remains a fan favorite. Additionally, it will launch with Linux only, rather than Android, although dual-boot capabilities with GammaOS are reportedly in development ahead of the release.
The RG Vita duo is expected to hit shelves in the “third week of March,” so the wait won’t be long for these tribute handhelds. While pricing details are still under wraps, sources indicate that the standard model will retail for under $100, suggesting a pricing strategy similar to the Anbernic RG Cube and its more affordable $70 “XX” variant.
I still hold my concerns that the RG Vita doesn’t quite capture the essence of Sony’s 2011 handheld, and the Pro version has only heightened those worries. Today’s portable screen technology is typically reserved for top-tier gaming handhelds with PC components, like the Steam Deck OLED, or premium Android devices such as the new AYN Odin that I’m currently testing with PS2 titles.
However, the 5.46-inch RG Vita could satisfy the desire for a PS Vita-like device thanks to its size and specifications. The base model features a Mali-G52 MP2 GPU, similar to the Sega Saturn-themed RG ARC-D, and comes with 3GB of RAM. That’s not too shabby if it lands under $100, but the Pro version ups the ante with 4GB of memory and a more powerful RockChip RK3576/Mali-G52 configuration.
It’s worth noting that while we won’t be getting OLED displays, the standard RG Vita is equipped with a 720p IPS screen. That’s quite decent considering many competitors in its price range offer only 480p, and the Pro version at least provides 1080p resolution. If Anbernic can nail the pricing, we could be looking at two capable portables that go beyond just being a Vita homage.
Ultimately, my main concern is whether the cheapest Anbernic model will handle Vita emulation effectively. I’ll need to test both devices to see how they perform in the competitive retro handheld market, but it would be disappointing if a device designed to resemble the Vita struggles to run its games smoothly. The last thing I want is to pick up the portable and realize it’s just a generic device dressed in Sony-themed attire, but we’ll find out soon enough when it launches next month.
Weekly digests, tales from the communities you love, and more
Looking for more ways to revisit the classics? Check out the best retro consoles for emulation systems and more. You’ll also want to explore the best Steam Deck accessories and docks if you’re using that powerhouse for playing retro games.
