Anbernic has shared new gameplay footage of its upcoming RG DS Plus handheld, highlighting a custom emulator designed specifically for Nintendo DS titles. This development matters because it suggests the device will handle retro gaming with features that standard emulators often lack, such as native stylus support. Buyers interested in portable retro gaming should watch this closely, as the RG DS Plus aims to bridge the gap between modern hardware and classic handheld experiences.
New handheld supports stylus input and dual-screen flipping
The RG DS Plus is a handheld gaming device from Anbernic that focuses heavily on emulation versatility. The company demonstrated the system running a variety of classic games, proving it can handle more than just Nintendo DS software. The device appears to be positioned as a multi-system retro console rather than a single-purpose gadget, offering flexibility for players who own libraries across different eras of gaming.
- Emulator Name: NNDDSS
- Supported Platforms: Nintendo DS, PS1, PSP, Sega Genesis, Game Boy Advance, PC (streaming)
- Key Features: Stylus support, dual-screen layout flipping, netplay
At the core of the RG DS Plus experience is a new emulator named NNDDSS. This software allows the device to run Nintendo DS games with stylus input support, which is essential for titles that rely on touch controls. The footage shows the emulator flipping the dual-screen layout to accommodate the hardware, ensuring that games like Zelda: Spirit Tracks and Pokemon White Version 2 play as intended. Anbernic claims these games run smoothly, addressing a common concern with portable DS emulation.
Beyond DS emulation, the RG DS Plus supports a range of other platforms including PS1, PSP, Sega Genesis, and Game Boy Advance. The device also handles PC streaming, with Forza Horizon 5 shown in the demonstration footage. Anbernic included two-player netplay capabilities, allowing users to connect with others for multiplayer sessions. These features indicate a robust software stack that extends well beyond simple ROM loading.
Anbernic stated that the RG DS Plus will be released soon, though no specific date has been confirmed. The company used phrases like 'very soon' to describe the launch timeline, leaving buyers to wait for an official announcement. Until then, the device remains a promising but unconfirmed option for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Source: RetroHandhelds
