In this article 24 Channels We’ve rounded up some of the best devices in 2023 that we think are perfect for retro gaming.

PlayMaji Polymega

PlayMaji Polymega universal retro console / Photo: notebookcheck

One of the brightest modern retro consoles is PlayMaji Polymega. It is the best retro STB overall, offering unmatched functionality. This modular multi-system retro STB supports a variety of platforms, including:

• play station,
• sega Saturn,
• Sega Mega CD,
• Sega32X,
• Neo Geo CD,
• TurboGrafx CD,
• PC-Engine CD.

Polymega reduces the need to constantly work with disks by allowing users to use the original media by storing it on an internal 32 gigabyte solid state drive or removable media. However, it does not work with standard ROM images, so physical copies of games – discs and cartridges – are required for use with this console.

With its solid emulation and scaling capabilities, PlayMaji Polymega provides an authentic and comfortable retro gaming experience, although it can be quite expensive, especially when you factor in add-ons and controllers.

vs Evercade

Evercade VS / Photo nintendolife

Another worthwhile option is Evercade VS, which offers a more cost-effective route for those interested in physical game collections. This retro slot machine is based on software emulation but uses branded physical game cartridges along with officially licensed game collections from famous publishers such as Team 17, Atari and Namco. With four-player support, Evercade VS primarily focuses on emulating retro arcade games and old home console classics.

Retro Pocket 3

Retroid Pocket 3 / Photo by obscurehandhelds

Retroid Pocket 3 is a great portable console for old games. Despite its compact design, it has a bright 4.7-inch display and enough processing power to run most retro games. Its slim and portable design makes it the perfect travel companion for enthusiasts who want to satisfy their retro gaming passion while traveling.

Running on the Tiger T310 processor, Retroid Pocket 3 can emulate the operation of consoles such as:

• NES,
• SNES,
• creation,
• Game boy.

It offers a wide range of games for different tastes. With its affordable price, usually around $100 at the time of sale, the Retroid Pocket 3 is a great option for retro gamers on the go.

Steam Bundle

Steam Deck / Photo: Valve

If you’re ready to invest in a high-end portable gaming platform, Valve’s Steam Deck is one of your top choices. Steam Deck is rightly considered the best portable gaming platform to run on Linux and be able to play the huge library of Steam games thanks to Valve’s Proton software.

It also serves as a great portable retro platformer with emulators easily available in the Discover app.

The gadget supports popular emulators such as:

• EmuDeck,
• retro Deck,
• RetroArch.

These projects can get you emulations of almost any console. Additionally, users have the option to install Windows for a more complete experience when connecting the Steam Deck to an external monitor.

Xbox Series X|S

Microsoft’s modern consoles are great for retro gaming / Photo by Microsoft

It may seem strange that Microsoft’s two next-generation consoles are included in this selection. But besides letting you play modern projects, they can also be used as retro game consoles.

The fact is that using the developer mode, users can install emulators of several RetroArch systems on their Xbox consoles. This allows them to play a wide variety of retro games, including games for Nintendo 64, PlayStation, and even PlayStation 2 and other consoles. Additionally, the consoles themselves support a huge library of games, including those on Xbox and Xbox 360 consoles.

Choosing between the Xbox Series X and Series S comes down to personal preference, as the former offers 4K capabilities and an optical disc drive for playing older Xbox games, while the latter is more affordable and suitable for 1080p gaming.

Nintendo Switch

Finally, Nintendo Switch deserves to be mentioned as a console ready for new and retro games. With a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, users can access NES and SNES games. Those looking for more retro games can opt for the Switch Online Expansion Pass, which also includes N64 and Sega Genesis games.

Official retro consoles

Official “mini” consoles should not be overlooked, but it is important to note that they contain a limited number of games and may not include all of your favorite games. Some of these consoles, like the SNES Classic Mini, can be modified to play additional games or even completely different systems using multi-system emulators like RetroArch. The convenience and ease of use of these “mini” consoles make them a viable option for those looking for a simple retro gaming experience. However, supply problems and inflated prices in the vendor market are not worth your nerves and investment.

Today’s retro console market is evolving, meeting the diverse needs and preferences of gamers. From the extensive functionality of PlayMaji Polymega to the portability of Retroid Pocket 3 to the advanced features of Valve Steam Deck, there’s a retro console for every gamer. In addition, new generation consoles such as Xbox Series X and Series S and Nintendo Switch also offer attractive opportunities for modern and retro games.

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg, as we’ve only covered consoles that we think are most worth checking out if you like retro games. However, there are many gadgets for different tastes on the market today, so you can always find the one that suits you best.