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Anbernic RG405M retro handheld£189.90 – £199.90
Introduction
Retro gaming handhelds, like the Anbernic RG405M, PowKiddy models, Retroid devices, and Miyoo retro handheld consoles, have become a staple for gamers yearning for nostalgia or seeking an alternative to modern console experiences. These compact marvels emulate classic gaming systems from decades past, offering players the opportunity to relive favorite childhood titles in high-definition, with improved functionality and compatibility. They appeal to gaming enthusiasts across generations by providing a cost-effective way to access extensive libraries of retro games, often with customizable controls for an enhanced gaming experience. The portability and affordability of these devices make them a hit among collectors, casual gamers, and serious aficionados alike, who appreciate the convenience of playing timeless classics at their fingertips.
Anbernic RG405M Features
The RG405M handheld is a sophisticated piece of retro gaming technology that encapsulates the past in a sleek, modern form factor. Crafted with a solid aluminium alloy CNC shell, this handheld device provides durability while maintaining portability for gamers on-the-go with great battery life. At its heart lies an Android operating system which serves as the hub for accessing and running emulated retro consoles from the golden era of gaming.
A standout feature is its vibrant 4-inch IPS touch-screen with a crisp 640×480 resolution with excellent display brightness, delivering visuals reminiscent of classic gaming systems but in high-definition. This allows for a seamless blend of nostalgia and modern technology, enhancing the overall user experience.
To enhance performance and usability, we install GammaOS custom firmware on this device. This firmware caters to gamers who seek both classic gameplay fidelity and a more refined user interface tailored specifically for an Android-based platform. GammaOS offers three different modes that allow you to extend battery life up to a reported 20 hours or boost system performance for high-end systems such as the GameCube, Wii, and PS2. As an Android-based device, of course, it can also play Android games.
The RG405M boasts an extensive range of games it can play, covering everything from vintage arcade titles to full-fledged console experiences across various generations up to the PS2 and Wii. Emulators have been meticulously configured in-house over countless hours by K-TEC. This process involves fine-tuning settings for each system to achieve the best possible performance, ensuring smooth gameplay without sacrificing the authenticity of the original experience.
Configuring emulators is crucial as it directly impacts how well games run on this device. It’s a delicate balance between preserving the nuances of retro gaming and leveraging modern technology to improve overall playability. Our team invests significant time in research, testing, and optimization, making sure that every game offers an immersive yet enjoyable experience when played on the RG405M.
In summary, the RG405M is a testament to our commitment towards delivering cutting-edge retro gaming solutions. The combination of its robust metal shell, Android OS, 640×480 touch-screen, GammaOS firmware, and meticulously configured emulators makes it an ultimate device for reliving classic games in style and comfort.
Amazing product, both the original device and the efforts put in by K-TEC! I’m blown away with how many emulators they’ve set up for it, between which, and getting Gamma OS Lite installed and configured, the amount of time I’ve saved was well worth the cost. Since getting it, I’ve been playing Final Fantasy 12 emulated on PS2, which runs surprisingly smoothly and I think the custom setup is a big part of that.
~ Joseph
P.S. Thank you K-TEC for the wonderful work you’re doing ^_^
Console Games
The RG405M, when optimized by K-TEC, can play thousands of games from the first arcade titles all the way up to Sixth and Seventh Generation video gaming consoles like the Sony PlayStation 2, and the Nintendo Wii. We have a guide called What can the Miyoo Mini Plus play? that covers games up to the PlayStation 1. Please refer to that guide for the more classic games that the RG405M can play. Here, we’ll concentrate on the more powerful consoles that the R405M can handle.
Fifth Generation (32/64-bit, 3D graphics) (1993-2006)
The Fifth Generation brought immersive, 3D graphics to mainstream gaming. Larger games saw a shift from cartridge to CD-ROM as a storage medium. 3D worlds brought the introduction of the analogue stick to console controllers.
3DO
The 3DO Interactive Multiplayer was conceived by The 3DO Company in 1991 under founder Trip Hawkins’s vision for a next-generation, CD-based video game/entertainment standard licensed to various manufacturers. Its hardware design by Dave Needle and RJ Mical began with an initial concept on a restaurant napkin in 1989, which closely matched Hawkins’s expectations.
Alone in the Dark
Alone in the Dark is a pioneering survival horror video game series that originated in 1992 with Infogrames. Notably, it was one of the first games to use polygonal characters over pre-rendered backgrounds and received recognition from Guinness World Records for being the “First Ever 3D Survival Horror Game.” The series follows private investigator Edward Carnby as he investigates haunted locations filled with supernatural entities. Over time, the franchise has spanned multiple platforms and inspired various adaptations including comic books and films.
Star Control II
Star Control II is highly regarded for its expansive universe and deep storytelling, influencing notable developers like Tim Cain (Fallout) and Ray Muzyka (BioWare). It’s praised as an open-world pioneer ahead of its time, with a rich alien ecosystem that predates similar elements in Mass Effect. The game’s development was ambitious but initially downplayed to the publisher for practical reasons. Its legacy includes inspiring modern titles like Paradox Interactive’s Stellaris due to its unique blend of exploration and adventure gameplay.
Return Fire
Return Fire is a vehicular combat simulation released for various platforms including 3DO, PlayStation, Sega Saturn, and others. The game allows players to engage in action-packed battles with helicopters and tanks, offering both single-player and multiplayer modes. It was well-received by critics for its engaging gameplay mechanics, detailed visuals, and immersive soundtrack. However, despite its acclaim, Return Fire faced cancellation on some platforms like Atari Jaguar mid-development.
Nintendo 64
The Nintendo 64, released with high anticipation in 1996, is known for its influential games like Super Mario 64 and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, which are regarded as some of the greatest and most impactful video games ever made. It faced challenges due to its cartridge-based system compared to CD-ROMs used by competitors, yet it achieved significant sales success in North America. Notably, it introduced innovative hardware like the Rumble Pak and saw an arcade version called Aleck 64 in Japan. The console’s legacy is marked by its unique programming difficulties highlighted by Nintendo’s chief hardware developer, Genyo Takeda, who later reflected on the complexity of developing for this system.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is widely recognized as one of the most influential games in its series and beyond. It was released for the Nintendo 64 and received critical acclaim, earning perfect scores from several publications. Notably, it scored a rare perfect score in Japan’s Famitsu magazine. The game features innovative gameplay mechanics like time travel using an ocarina and is renowned for its immersive world design and narrative depth. Its impact on gaming culture is significant, with the game often topping lists of greatest video games ever made.
Goldeneye 007
GoldenEye 007, released in 1997 for the Nintendo 64, is renowned as one of the greatest first-person shooter games ever made despite initial skepticism due to its film license origins. It features a strong single-player campaign based on the James Bond franchise. The game’s development by Rare was marked by innovative design elements that surpassed expectations at the time. GoldenEye 007 has been widely acclaimed, receiving high scores from critics and achieving significant commercial success. Over the years, it has garnered retrospective praise for its influence on the gaming industry and is often cited in lists of top video games ever made.
Space Station Silicon Valley
Space Station Silicon Valley is a 1998 action-adventure video game for the Nintendo 64 that received critical acclaim for its intuitive mechanics, innovative level design, and humorous elements. Despite winning awards like Game of the Month from IGN, it failed commercially and didn’t secure enough sales to justify a sequel. Notably, the game was recognized as underrated and underappreciated in later years by gaming critics.
Sixth Generation (128-bit), (1998-2013)
Sega DreamCast
The Sega Dreamcast was launched with high expectations but faced initial sales challenges due to slower-than-expected uptake in Japan, leading Sega to cut its price to boost consumer interest. Notable titles like “Seaman” helped it gain traction in early days. The console is remembered for innovative games such as “Sonic Adventure,” “Shenmue,” and “Space Channel 5.” Despite its brief life, the Dreamcast had a significant impact on video game development, offering unique and creative content that was seen as avant-garde compared to other consoles of the era.
Crazy Taxi
Crazy Taxi is an arcade video game developed by Hitmaker and published by Sega. Notable for its fast-paced gameplay where players navigate taxis through busy city streets while trying to pick up fares, it was first released in 1999. The game gained popularity across various platforms like Dreamcast, PlayStation 2, and GameCube, earning critical acclaim for its unique open-world design and humorous dialogue-driven missions. Crazy Taxi also received an Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences award, cementing its legacy as a cult classic in gaming history.
Sonic Adventure
Sonic Adventure, released for the Sega Dreamcast in 1998, marked a significant milestone for the Sonic series by introducing a 3D, open-world gameplay style alongside traditional platforming elements. Notable features include multiple playable characters with unique abilities and storylines that intertwine to create a richer narrative experience. The game also featured enhanced graphics and improved audio design, including memorable music compositions. Sonic Adventure was critically acclaimed upon release and won several awards, cementing its legacy as one of the best games on the Dreamcast console.
Jet Set Radio
Also known as Jet Grind Radio.
Jet Set Radio is an influential action game known for its unique graffiti-styled gameplay and vibrant urban setting. Originally released on the Dreamcast, it has been re-released across multiple platforms including Xbox Live Arcade and mobile devices. The game’s innovative art style garnered critical acclaim and earned several awards. Jet Set Radio also features an engaging soundtrack that has inspired real-life music projects, cementing its legacy in gaming culture.
Sony PlayStation 2
The Sony PlayStation 2 (PS2) was announced in 1999 and gained widespread acclaim upon release in 2000. Notably, it featured backward compatibility with its predecessor’s hardware and games, including support for the DualShock controller. With over 4,000 game titles released worldwide and more than 1.5 billion copies sold, it became a monumental success. The PS2 was also notable for receiving a smaller, lighter version in 2004 and continued production until 2013—a remarkable lifespan. Despite the release of PlayStation 3 as its successor, the PS2 remained popular throughout the Seventh Generation, demonstrating enduring appeal and support from gamers worldwide.
God of War
God of War (2005) is known for its intense combat mechanics and rich mythological setting, blending Greek mythology with high-octane action gameplay. Notably, it was heavily influenced by Capcom’s 1989 arcade game Strider. The game also spawned a novelization written by Matthew Stover and Robert E. Vardeman, which delves deeper into the story of protagonist Kratos beyond what is seen in the game itself. Additionally, there were plans for an official live-action film adaptation, though these did not come to fruition.
Final Fantasy X
Final Fantasy X is renowned for its emotional depth and innovative gameplay mechanics. Notable facts include Yoshinori Kitase’s emotional response upon first playing it, the inclusion of a memorable kiss scene, and its groundbreaking sphere grid character development system. The game faced localization challenges but went on to receive high critical acclaim and commercial success, selling millions of copies worldwide. It also won awards like the prestigious Japan Game Awards Best Game Award.
Shadow of the Colossus
Shadow of the Colossus is a critically acclaimed 2005 video game that garnered significant attention for its innovative gameplay and artistic vision. Developed by Team Ico, it received universal praise with an average critic score of 91% at GameRankings, placing it among the highest-rated games of 2005. The game is known for its unique approach to storytelling through long cutscenes and immersive environments that encourage player reflection. Despite initial feedback about technical issues like frame rate and collision detection, Ueda’s team focused on refining their core design ideas, resulting in a cohesive and powerful gaming experience. Shadow of the Colossus became essential to PlayStation 2’s library and is celebrated for its thematic depth and emotional impact.
Nintendo GameCube
The Nintendo GameCube was launched with praise for its hardware design and initial lineup of games but later faced criticism for lacking technical innovations and having a toy-like appearance. Despite this, it had some notable moments: it featured exclusive titles like Resident Evil 4 and The Legend of Zelda series, which contributed to its cultural impact. However, poor sales figures led to financial challenges for Nintendo, with the console often overshadowed by its successor, the Wii, in later years.
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker is known for its distinctive cartoon-style graphics which initially caused controversy among fans but later became appreciated as the game aged well visually compared to more realistic contemporaries. Despite initial mixed reactions, it has since been regarded as a classic in the series and one of the best Zeldas. Its gameplay includes innovative sailing mechanics and explores new narrative directions within Hyrule’s lore, marking it as a significant entry that influenced future games and media in the franchise.
Viewtiful Joe
Viewtiful Joe is a critically acclaimed action game known for its unique visual style that blends 2D platforming with 3D cel-shaded graphics. It features special “VFX Powers” allowing players to manipulate time in combat and puzzle-solving scenarios. Despite being a minor commercial success, it gained recognition through numerous awards from various media outlets and sparked several sequels across multiple consoles like PSP and Nintendo DS. Additionally, the game inspired an anime adaptation and a manga series.
Metroid Prime
Metroid Prime received universal acclaim for its detailed graphics, immersive atmosphere, and innovative exploration-based gameplay, earning numerous Game of the Year awards. It was praised for staying true to the Metroid formula while introducing first-person mechanics. However, it faced criticism for an unusual control scheme and repetitive backtracking. The game’s moody soundtrack and sound effects also contributed significantly to its overall appeal and immersive experience.
Seventh Generation (new control methods) (2005-2017)
Nintendo Wii
The Nintendo Wii, launched in 2006, is known for its innovative approach to gaming with motion-sensing controllers like the Wii Remote. Notable events include the free replacement of the original controller wrist-straps with stonger versions, due to reported breakages. The system’s marketing campaign was highly effective, particularly with initiatives like “Wii Would Like to Play,” which won awards for its creativity. Additionally, the Wii made significant strides in bringing gaming to a broader audience beyond traditional gamers.
Kirby’s Return to Dreamland
Kirby’s Return to Dreamland received generally favorable reviews for its nostalgic gameplay that harkens back to earlier Kirby titles. The game is noted for its traditional Kirby fun coupled with vibrant visuals and beautifully designed levels. However, it faced some criticism for lacking difficulty. By March 2012, Nintendo reported sales of over 1.31 million copies, indicating significant commercial success.
Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga
Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga is a compilation that includes both “The Video Game” and its sequel “II: The Original Trilogy.” It was released in 2007 across multiple platforms including PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii, Nintendo DS, Mac, PC, and iOS. The game received positive reviews for its engaging gameplay and creative use of Star Wars characters and themes within the Lego universe. Notably, it didn’t come out on PSP despite other platform releases. The title also featured new content beyond the original games to keep fans engaged.
Rayman Origins
Rayman Origins received critical acclaim for its vibrant visuals and engaging gameplay, earning high scores from several gaming publications such as IGN (9.5/10) and Nintendo Life (10/10). The game is celebrated for reviving the 2D platformer genre with creativity and craftsmanship reminiscent of classic titles. Additionally, it was financially successful for Ubisoft and recognized with awards like GameSpot’s “Best Platformer of 2011”.
Anbernic RG405M Retro Gaming Handheld
- 4″ Display with HD resolution
- Pre-installed GammaOS Firmware
- Lifetime Guarantee on Brand-name SD Card
- Custom Configurations for Optimal Performance
- Robust Metal Shell Build Quality
- Seamless Switching Between Games/Emulators
Handheld Games
Seventh Generation (2004-2014)
Nintendo DS
The Nintendo DS was conceived around mid-2002 by former Nintendo president Hiroshi Yamauchi as a dual-screened device. Announced officially on January 20, 2004, it featured two separate LCD screens, separate processors, and up to 128 MB of memory. Its launch in 2004 marked a significant shift for the company towards innovative designs, aiming to provide unique gaming experiences. The DS became one of Nintendo’s most successful consoles, close to the PlayStation 2 in total sales, highlighting its impact on handheld gaming.
Mario Kart DS
Mario Kart DS is a critically acclaimed racing game from 2005 for the Nintendo DS. It received high scores across various gaming reviews due to its engaging features. The game also garnered several awards including Best Driving Game, and was nominated for Game of the Year by IGN. Mario Kart DS is notable for its dominance in sales, particularly at launch, solidifying its position as one of the most successful titles on the Nintendo DS platform.
The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass
The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass is an action-adventure game praised for its innovative use of the Nintendo DS’s touchscreen features, offering a fresh take on classic gameplay elements. It introduces unique sailing mechanics that allow players to navigate between islands and engage in naval combat. The game was well-received by critics who highlighted its engaging control scheme and immersive world exploration, cementing it as a must-have title for the franchise’s fans and Nintendo DS owners alike.
Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars
Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars is an action-adventure game featuring a vast urban setting that includes much of Liberty City from earlier entries in the series. Notable for its release on multiple platforms including Nintendo DS and PSP, it also saw releases on iOS and Android devices later on. The game features a unique cel-shaded graphics style distinct from other GTA titles, offering an isometric view with a controllable camera. It includes engaging storyline missions along with side quests. Additionally, the soundtrack was praised for incorporating hip-hop artist Ghostface Killah’s voice work into the mix.
PSP
The Sony PlayStation Portable (PSP) made its debut with significant fanfare at E3 2004 and was released commercially in Japan in December 2004, followed by the rest of the world throughout 2005. It quickly became a hit, selling over half a million units within the first two days in the US alone. The PSP experienced strong sales globally. Throughout its lifecycle, it received firmware updates that enhanced functionality like internet browsing and remote play features. Notably, Sony released a smaller model called the PSP Go in 2009 but was criticized for being overpriced compared to previous models.
Metal Gear Solid – Peace Walker
Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker is known for its anti-war themes and focus on Snake’s development into Big Boss. It introduces cooperative gameplay elements and was released with various themed bundles and promotional items like a Mountain Dew tie-in. Notably, it received a “Teen” rating from the ESRB, unlike most entries in the series.
Kingdom Hearts – Birth By Sleep
Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep is an action role-playing game developed and published by Square Enix for the PlayStation Portable. As part of the sixth installment in the Kingdom Hearts series, it was released in 2010 later that year. Notably, the game features a prequel storyline that introduces three new playable characters: Terra, Aqua, and Ventus. It received positive reviews for its gameplay and music, with an enhanced Final Mix version released in Japan the following January. Additionally, it won several awards, including Best Portable Console Videogame at France’s Japan Expo in 2011.
Burnout Legends
Burnout Legends is a racing video game developed by Criterion Games for PlayStation Portable (PSP) and Nintendo DS, published by Electronic Arts in 2005. It compiles tracks and gameplay modes from the first three Burnout games into a handheld format with mostly positive reviews for its PSP version and negative reviews for the DS version.
Eighth Generation (2011-present)
Nintendo 3DS
The Nintendo 3DS is an innovative handheld gaming device that introduced stereoscopic 3D visuals without requiring special glasses, setting it apart from previous gaming systems. Notable iterations include the larger 3DS XL model and the more affordable 2DS variant which omits 3D capabilities but maintains backward compatibility with existing games. Further advancements were made with the New Nintendo 3DS and New Nintendo 2DS XL, featuring enhanced processing power and additional features like an extra control stick. The system also supports unique services such as Miiverse for social interaction and a built-in camera for various applications including augmented reality experiences.
The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds
The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds is an action-adventure game released for the Nintendo 3DS in 2013. Notable features include its innovative use of a new gameplay mechanic where Link can merge into walls, which allows players to traverse dungeon walls, and the inclusion of StreetPass functionality that integrates social interaction into gameplay. The game revisits elements from classic Zelda titles while introducing fresh ideas, making it well-received by critics who praised its creative design and nostalgic nods.
Metroid: Samus Returns
Metroid: Samus Returns is a side-scrolling remake of the 1991 Game Boy title Metroid II: Return of Samus, featuring updated visuals and gameplay mechanics while retaining its original story and structure. The game received favorable reviews for its stunning graphics, haunting soundtrack, and improvements over the original that make it more accessible to modern gamers. Notably, its release was well-received by critics, highlighting a return to the series’ roots with a strong emphasis on exploration and combat in an immersive 2D environment.
Animal Crossing: New Leaf
Animal Crossing: New Leaf is known for several interesting features including allowing players to become mayors of their own towns, introduce new characters like Digby from the Happy Home Showcase, and engage with public works projects and ordinances. New Leaf was well-received critically upon its release in 2013 with reviews highlighting the depth and charm of its community building and life simulation aspects.
Anbernic RG405M Retro Gaming Handheld
- 4″ Display with HD resolution
- Pre-installed GammaOS Firmware
- Lifetime Guarantee on Brand-name SD Card
- Custom Configurations for Optimal Performance
- Robust Metal Shell Build Quality
- Seamless Switching Between Games/Emulators
Additional Features
In addition to its sleek design, the RG405M handheld packs several advanced features designed to enhance your gaming experience further. We’ve configured Auto-Save states for numerous RetroArch systems, ensuring that you can quit gameplay at any time without losing progress. This feature is particularly useful during long sessions or when you’re interrupted unexpectedly.
The GammaOS firmware introduces an array of customizable options through Quick settings tiles, which let you easily switch between Performance modes, alter ABXY button layouts, adjust analogue stick sensitivity to your liking, and even invert the axis for smoother control over left/right movements. The 60hz refresh rate fix ensures that high-speed games are displayed with incredible fluidity, while removing any unwanted oversharpening found in Anbernic’s software is a welcome improvement. You can even use RetroAchievements over WiFi.
Analogue stick calibration for the double hall effect joysticks provides better precision during gameplay, making every movement count. The firmware now leverages the best performance governors for the CPU, GPU, and memory to boost efficiency, and by integrating high-performance GPU drivers from the Retroid Pocket 3+, GammaOS has further enhanced graphical fidelity without sacrificing speed.
Given the investment you’re making in your new handheld, consider protecting it with a protective case. A hardshell case not only adds an extra layer of durability but also keeps your device organized, ensuring that all its components stay safe and intact. Investing in quality protection is a small step towards ensuring many years of joy and enjoyment from your RG405M handheld, allowing you to focus on what matters most: the games you love to play. Take advantage of our 25% discount when you buy a hardshell case with your RG405M.
Compatibility Considerations
Higher-end retro consoles, such as the 3DS, GameCube, and PS2 push the capabilities of the RG405M. In order to play your favourite games from these systems, with decent performance, some compromises are made. For instance, God of War and God of War II (PS2) are quite playable on this device. However, to get that performance we have enabled some settings that result in a frame-rate that is not as smooth as the original. On the title screen of The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, you’ll see that some parts of the 3D models take a second to load in. Again, this is due to our configuration choices that result in great performance during actual game-play.
A nice feature of the RG405M, as configured by K-TEC, is its ability to play certain Nintendo 3DS games at double their native resolution (2x). This enhancement provides a clearer visual experience for titles like The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and others that still perform well at this higher resolution setting, making the graphics appear sharper and more detailed. However, it’s important to note that not all 3DS games will perform well enough; some may require the default 1x native resolution setting to ensure stable performance. When playing 3DS games on your RG405M, we recommend experimenting with different internal resolution settings to find the best balance between enhanced visuals and optimal gameplay experience for each title you wish to enjoy. See our On-line User Guide for instructions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the RG405M handheld offers an impressive array of classic and modern gaming experiences. With its robust metal shell, Android-based OS, vibrant 640×480 touch-screen, and GammaOS firmware (as installed by K-TEC), this device supports a vast library of console systems ranging from vintage arcade titles to full-fledged console emulation such as PlayStation 2 (PS2), Nintendo GameCube, Wii, and more.
The RG405M, when bought from K-TEC, stands out for our meticulous configuration, which optimizes performance and enhances the overall gaming experience. Our team has spent countless hours fine-tuning settings to deliver high-performance and smooth game-play across numerous platforms. Notably, we’ve set-up features such as Auto-Save states, and bespoke control schemes to provide a more immersive and enjoyable experience for players.
This versatile handheld is an exceptional choice for both retro gaming aficionados who wish to relive their favorite classics and modern gaming enthusiasts looking for a portable solution that can handle high-end emulation. The RG405M’s compatibility with games from PS2, GameCube, Wii, and other systems showcases the remarkable power from its Unisoc Tiger T618 CPU while maintaining the charm of classic consoles.
Shop the Anbernic RG405M UK from K-TEC, the best place to buy an expertly pre-configured device from a company that will support users. Check out the video review of the RG405M from K-TEC UK by Our Nerd Corner.
What game recommendations do you have for these supported consoles? Share in the comments below.
