Tag: games

Raven 2 First Impressions – A Beautiful Game That Plays Itself
Global Launch: October 22, 2025

When I first heard about Raven 2, I was hyped. Netmarble has always been one of those studios that knows how to make games look incredible. I still revisit Marvel Future Fight from time to time because it remains one of the best-looking mobile titles ever made. Even Marvel Future Revolution, despite being shut down, was a visual masterpiece — and honestly, it still stings that they closed its servers for good.

But enough nostalgia — let’s talk about Raven 2, which officially launched globally today, October 22, 2025. After spending a few hours with it, here are my first impressions — the good, the bad, and everything in between.

First Impressions – Dark, Cinematic, and Distinctly Atmospheric

From the opening cinematic alone, Raven 2 makes a strong first impression. The visuals are gorgeous — dark, moody, and atmospheric, with that unmistakable Diablo-style tone that pulls you right in. It’s cinematic, dramatic, and absolutely dripping with polish, which is very much in line with Netmarble’s DNA.

Then came my first surprise: the voiceovers are entirely in Korean.
Now, I don’t mind games using their native languages — in fact, it often makes them feel more authentic. But for a global launch, I did expect an English voice option, similar to what Wuthering Waves or Black Beacon offered.

Being an anime fan, I’d even settle for Japanese voiceovers — they’re familiar and easier for global audiences to connect with. Korean, on the other hand, is something I mostly hear in K-dramas like Goblin or My Sassy Girl. Still, once I got used to it, I have to admit: the voice acting, music, and sound design blend beautifully. It feels like watching a high-budget fantasy drama — only you’re part of the story this time.

Character Creation – Stylish and Customizable

The character creation screen instantly impressed me. Raven 2 offers several classes: Assassin, Berserker, Elementalist, Vanguard, and others — each with unique aesthetics and playstyles.

Since I usually play tank roles, I went with the Vanguard class, creating a female character for my first run. I’ll be honest, I was tempted to pick one of the female-exclusive class looks — because wow, the designs here are stunning. Thankfully, every class allows both male and female options, so you can customize however you want without losing visual appeal.

Gameplay – When “Auto” Takes Control

Here’s where things got interesting.
I went into Raven 2 expecting something closer to Darkness Rises — a high-action, combo-driven hack-and-slash RPG with manual controls and dynamic combat. Instead, what I found was an idle MMORPG dressed in premium visuals.

The game lets you switch between three camera perspectives — top-down, isometric, and over-the-shoulder — and the moment I saw the horizontal skill bar beneath the attack button, I knew what kind of experience this would be.

Combat can be manual, sure, but the auto-battle and auto-cast features quickly take over. You can literally sit back while your character chains skills, fights enemies, and completes quests on their own.

The quest tracker, found on the top-right corner, handles most navigation for you. Tap a quest, and your character automatically walks to the right NPC, triggers dialogue, hunts enemies, and even turns in objectives. A single tap afterward claims your rewards and pushes you straight to the next task.

For some, that’s a dream setup. It’s convenient, smooth, and perfect for mobile gaming — especially if you’re multitasking or just want to progress casually. But for players like me who crave hands-on action, it can feel like the game’s doing all the heavy lifting.

Raven 2 executes its systems well, but it often feels like watching a really good-looking game play itself.

Global Launch Rewards – Netmarble’s Welcome Package

To celebrate the global launch, Netmarble rolled out some enticing bonuses and pre-registration rewards to kickstart your journey.

Official Pre-Registration Rewards
- Heroic-grade Holy Garment – basically a character skin given automatically to all pre-registered players at launch. I tried it out for a bit, but honestly, I ditched it quickly. Everyone I ran into was wearing the same outfit, and it completely killed the sense of individuality for me. I actually prefer my default look — I intentionally made my character resemble Clare from the anime and manga Claymore, because… well, I’m a huge fan.
- Special Pre-Registration Package – a bonus bundle sent through in-game mail (contents not officially detailed and may vary by region).
Global Launch Events

In addition to the pre-reg rewards, several time-limited events are live now:
- Daily Login Rewards – includes gold, enhancement materials, and consumables.
- Level Milestone Rewards – designed to help new players gear up faster.
- Global Celebration Bonuses – mount tickets, costumes, and premium currency for early progression.
These incentives definitely make the early game smoother and give players plenty of reasons to log in daily.

Verdict – An Eastern Take on a Western Celtic-Inspired World

At the end of the day, Raven 2 is a visual powerhouse — and if you doubt that, just notice your phone overheating while it’s running. It’s that demanding. The game drains battery fast, and even on lower visual settings, it still looks absolutely stunning.

If you love graphically impressive games with a dark, bloody fantasy atmosphere, this one’s a dream come true. It’s a perfect blend — an Eastern developer’s take on a Western, Celtic-inspired world. The tone is grim and mystical, the armor and landscapes evoke pagan energy, and the soundtrack feels like it was pulled straight from a medieval battlefield. It’s that unique fusion of styles that gives Raven 2 its distinct identity.

That said, all that style comes with a trade-off. The auto-play heavy design still holds it back from being truly engaging. I’ve never been a fan of games that rely on an “Auto” button to do most of the work. It’s convenient and great for grinding, but it takes away the thrill of mastering combat and controlling every move yourself.

If Netmarble had followed the Dragon Nest approach — tight, skill-based combat with real control — Raven 2 could’ve easily outshined most mobile titles this year.

For now, I’m setting it aside. Not because it’s bad — far from it — but because it’s built for a different audience. It’s made for players who love beautiful, cinematic MMOs and don’t mind trading depth for spectacle.

If that sounds like you, Raven 2 will absolutely deliver.
But if you’re the kind of gamer who values interaction over automation, you might find it all flash and little substance.
22nd Oct 2025
Sony PSP: Lightning in a Bottle, Lost to Time

A Pocket Full of Memories

I was scrolling through my phone the other night, hopping between retro handheld pages and game lists trying to find something new to play.
But as I kept going, I noticed something. Most of the games that caught my attention, the ones that made me stop and think, all pointed to one thing: the Sony PSP.

Released in Japan on December 12, 2004, North America on March 24, 2005, and Europe on September 1, 2005, the PSP stayed around until 2014, a solid 10-year run.
In that time, it built up over 1,300 game titles, which is insane when you think about it.
You could play something new every week and still not run out for years.

A Console in Your Pocket

SONY PSP 1000 model

The PSP came out during the PS2’s prime years and somehow it kept pace.
While the PS2 was out there delivering hits every month, the PSP was taking some of those worlds and putting them in your hands.

You had games like Def Jam: Fight for New York, Fight Night Round 3, and even Tekken 6 running smooth on a handheld.
And the exclusives? That’s where the PSP really showed off with Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, Final Fantasy Type-0, Dissidia 012 Duodecim, Patapon, and Half-Minute Hero.
These weren’t watered-down versions, they were full experiences made for the PSP.

Then there’s Monster Hunter, and honestly, that game changed everything.
When Monster Hunter Freedom and Freedom Unite came out, the PSP turned into a real-life multiplayer hub.
You’d see people hanging out in malls or cafés, PSPs in hand, connecting through ad-hoc to hunt rare monsters together.
It wasn’t just about grinding or loot drops, it was community.
That era was pure vibes, no Wi-Fi, no mic chat, just real people meeting up to play.

monster hunter freedom unite guild hall

“Everyone had a PSP in their bag.
You’d walk by a table, hear the sound of a Great Sword swing, and know exactly what was going down.”

Why I Still Love the PSP Today

One of the coolest things about the PSP is how easy it is to play now.
You don’t even need a fancy handheld or gaming phone because emulation runs smooth on almost anything.

I still play Tekken 6 on my phone, and honestly, I like it better that way.
Sliding my combos on the touchscreen just feels smoother than mashing buttons on the real PSP or a controller.
Might sound weird, but it just works for me.

That’s the charm of the PSP. It still fits in today’s world.
It’s not too old for new players, but it still hits that retro nostalgia we all chase.

The Hype That Fell Flat

When Sony announced the PlayStation Portal, I got hyped.
I really thought, “This might be it. The PSP comeback. Maybe even a Switch killer.”

But when it finally came out on November 15, 2023, the excitement turned into disappointment.
It wasn’t a new handheld. It was basically a remote screen for the PS5.
You can’t even use it without owning one.

And man, that hurt.
The PSP stood on its own. You didn’t need anything else, just the console, a UMD, and maybe a memory stick if you were lucky.
The Portal, on the other hand, felt like half a step forward.

“The PSP gave you freedom.
The Portal gave you a reminder that you still need your PS5.”

Why That Magic’s Hard to Find Now

The PSP hit different because developers back then were still experimenting.
They were testing ideas, taking risks, and seeing how far they could push a handheld.
Games felt like passion projects, not business plans.

Now it’s mostly about monetization, DLCs, and keeping players spending.
And that shift killed a lot of that creative fire.

Even Sony’s follow-up, the PS Vita, proves that.
On paper, it was the PSP’s smarter, faster sibling with dual analog sticks, touchscreen features, and those back-touch controls.
And the games looked great, like they were really made for the Vita.
Titles like Killzone Mercenary, Gravity Rush, and Soul Sacrifice were stunning for their time.

But here’s where it dropped the ball, the price.
Everything about the Vita was expensive.
The handheld itself, the games, and especially that Sony-exclusive memory card you had to buy separately just to save anything.
So imagine this: you buy the console, then you find out you need an overpriced memory card, then you realize there’s no free game included.
That’s another trip to the store and another dent in your wallet.

Sony PS Vita

To be fair, the PSP wasn’t cheap either, but the difference is, the PSP got hacked early on.
Once custom firmware came in, people turned it into a do-everything handheld.
You could emulate older consoles, load your own games, and basically carry your entire library on a single memory stick.
It became the retro handheld before retro handhelds were even a thing.

And honestly, that spirit, the whole “make it your own” vibe, carried over to the Vita too.
Once that system got cracked, it came alive again.
People used it to play PSP and PS1 titles, homebrew, emulators, everything.

In a way, that just proves the point.
The handhelds that lived on weren’t the ones with the best specs, they were the ones people could make personal.
That’s what the PSP had.
Freedom. Flexibility. A sense of ownership.
Something modern handhelds just don’t give anymore.

Looking Back, Still Ahead of Its Time

The PSP wasn’t just another console, it was a moment.
It gave us console-level games in our hands, real-world multiplayer before online took over, and a library that still holds up today.

It wasn’t perfect, but it felt real.
You could tell it was built by people who wanted to push gaming forward, not just chase trends.

The PSP will always have the top spot on my retro list.
Not because it’s perfect, but because it reminded us what gaming felt like when everything was new and exciting.
It was lightning in a bottle, and no one’s managed to catch it again.

20th Oct 2025
The Comfort of Pixels: Finding Calm in Retro Games

There’s something about old games that never fades. Maybe it’s the simple stories, the pixel art, or that familiar chiptune sound that instantly brings you back. No fancy graphics, no big explosions, just pure fun.

We live in a time where everything moves too fast. Work, messages, deadlines, everything is always buzzing for your attention. So when I play something old and simple, it slows the world down a bit. It reminds me of when gaming was just about enjoying the moment.

Comfort Mode On

When I play on a tiny handheld like the Miyoo Mini, I’m not looking for flashy visuals or new features, I’m just looking for comfort. There’s something deeply satisfying about that small screen lighting up with Castlevania or Final Fantasy IV. No loading, no updates, no nonsense. Just the game.

The Miyoo Mini isn’t just a gadget; it’s a pocket-sized time machine. It fits in your hand, but somehow holds years of memories inside. Every D-pad click feels like turning the pages of my childhood, one stage, one level, one victory at a time.

Its form factor is one of the best things about it. I can tuck it inside my shirt pocket or jeans, and most of the time, I don’t even notice it’s there. But the comfort it gives when I get a few minutes to play, whether I’m waiting for coffee or on a break, is unbeatable. It’s even more convenient than my phone or my Anbernic devices. The Miyoo Mini doesn’t demand attention. It quietly waits for the right moment, and that’s what makes it special.

Life gets heavy sometimes, work, family, love, all of it. But spending even a couple of hours doing something that once made you happy as a kid, that’s peace right there.

Sometimes, after a long day, I don’t want to think too much. I just want something familiar. That’s when I grab the Miyoo, dim the lights, and let that little screen take me somewhere calm.

Memory and Meaning

Retro games hit differently because they remind us of who we were. They’re not just games; they’re pieces of time. The startup sound of the PS1. The bloop when Mario jumps. The high score jingle from Space Impact.

In a world that’s stressful, whether it’s work, relationships, or family, finding a few quiet hours to do something you loved as a kid feels almost therapeutic. It’s a small reminder that joy doesn’t always have to be complicated.

Each sound, each pixel, is like opening a window to an easier time, when the only thing that mattered was getting past that one hard level.

And now that devices like the Miyoo Mini make these games portable again, it’s like carrying a piece of your past with you wherever you go. You can pause modern life for a bit and just play, no guilt, no rush.

Simple by Design

Maybe it’s not really about nostalgia. Maybe it’s about balance. Retro games remind us that not everything has to be about achievements, unlocks, or endless updates.

You don’t “finish” Tetris. You don’t “beat” Pac-Man. You just keep going. And somehow, that’s enough.

When life feels noisy and crowded, a few minutes with something you loved as a child can feel like breathing again. It’s not running away, it’s returning to a part of yourself that’s been quiet for too long.

And in a world that always wants more from you, that kind of simplicity is priceless.

Press Start to Feel Again

Retro gaming is still alive because we need it. We need that small reminder of when things were simple, fun, and full of wonder.

Whether you’re playing on an old console, a modern port, or a Miyoo Mini loaded with classics, what matters is how it makes you feel.

Maybe we don’t play retro games because they’re old.
Maybe we play them because they remind us who we used to be, and who we still are.

So go ahead. Charge that Miyoo, load up your favorite ROM, and give yourself a little escape tonight. Not to go back in time, but to remember how good it feels to just play.

15th Oct 2025
The Galerians Series – Disturbing, Unique, and Forgotten
Some games scare you with monsters. Others disturb you with atmosphere. But then there are games like the Galerians series — games that make you uncomfortable because of the ideas underneath.

Spanning the original Galerians on PS1 (1999) and its direct sequel Galerians: Ash on PS2 (2002/2003), the series is a one-two punch of sci-fi horror, drug-fueled survival mechanics, and tragic storytelling. For me, these games remain some of the most unique — and frankly disturbing — experiences I’ve ever had in gaming.

1999: Horror Boom on the PS1

Galerians Ps1 cover art

By the time Galerians released in 1999 (Japan) and 2000 (US/EU), the PlayStation was already knee-deep in a survival horror golden age.
- Capcom had just dropped Resident Evil 2 (1998) and Nemesis (1999).
- Konami unleashed Silent Hill (1999) — redefining psychological horror.
- Square dabbled with cinematic horror-RPG hybrids like Parasite Eve II (1999).
- Capcom even turned dinosaurs into horror with Dino Crisis (1999).
Everyone wanted a slice of the horror pie.

So where did Galerians fit? Developed by Polygon Magic and published in the West by Crave Entertainment, the game wasn’t coming from the heavyweights. Crave was mostly known for mid-tier and niche projects — sports titles, racing games, even quirky experiments. But in the late ’90s, even they leaned into the horror trend, picking up Galerians because it stood out: no guns, no zombies, just psychic powers fueled by dangerous drug use.

While the big publishers were polishing cinematic experiences, Crave doubled down on something raw and unsettling. It wasn’t the mainstream choice, but it gave Galerians its cult edge.

My First Steps Into Galerians

Booting up Galerians for the first time was like waking up inside someone else’s nightmare. The screen fades in, and you’re just… there. A sterile hospital room, cold and empty, and you have no idea who you are or why you’re strapped into this world of machines.

Then it happens: a girl’s voice inside your head.

“Rion… help me… find me…”

It’s faint, desperate, and unsettlingly personal. You don’t know her. You don’t even know yourself. But that voice becomes your compass, sparking your journey into the unknown. (Later, the game reveals this telepathic voice belongs to Lilia Pascalle, Rion’s childhood friend — but at the start, you only feel the mystery.)

And what a brutal start it is. Within minutes, I was already dying — overdosing on my own psychic powers, burning myself out with attacks I didn’t fully understand. Galerians didn’t want you to feel strong. It wanted you to feel fragile, broken, like a failed experiment stumbling forward.

Each scrap of the world you uncover — medical files, cryptic documents, and eerie computer logs — becomes your only guide. There are no quest arrows, no tutorials, just survival and that haunting voice urging you onward.

Stages and Bosses

What makes Galerians so distinct is how each stage feels like a test, both in difficulty and in theme:
- Michelangelo Memorial Hospital – sterile halls filled with former caretakers turned threats, a twisted introduction to your fragile powers.
- Rion’s House – once a place of safety, now twisted by confrontation with Birdman, one of Dorothy’s “children.”
- Babylon Hotel – chaotic, stylish, and home to brutal encounters with Rainheart and Rita, psychic foes as unstable as you are.
- Mushroom Tower – the final climb toward Dorothy, the cold, godlike AI that orchestrates your suffering.
Each boss isn’t just an obstacle; they’re living embodiments of Dorothy’s experiments, mirrors of what Rion could become. The game’s final stage, drenched in sterile dread, leaves you exhausted both mechanically and emotionally — and that’s before the ending revelations about Rion’s true nature.

Galerians: Rion (2002 CGI Movie)

A couple years later, fans got something unexpected: Galerians: Rion, a full CGI movie.

Think Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within style visuals — glossy, cinematic, and way ahead of its time for such a niche horror property. The movie retold the first game’s story but streamlined it, cutting much of the exploration and emphasizing flashy psychic battles instead.

The most controversial change was the ending. Where the PS1 game gave us one of the bleakest conclusions in survival horror, the film rewrote it to keep Rion alive — clearly paving the way for Galerians: Ash. For newcomers, it was a more digestible, “cleaned-up” retelling, but for players like me, it lost some of the raw edge that made the original unforgettable.

2002–2003: Horror Evolves on PS2

By the time Galerians: Ash launched on PS2 (2002 in Japan, 2003 in the West), the genre had shifted. Survival horror wasn’t just popular — it was splitting into blockbusters vs. experiments.
- Silent Hill 2 (2001) rewrote the rulebook for psychological horror.
- Fatal Frame (2001) introduced ghost photography as combat.
- Resident Evil Code: Veronica X (2001) and Resident Evil Zero (2002) kept Capcom’s dominance strong.
- Clock Tower 3 (2002) and Siren (2003) tried bold, experimental AI-driven scares.
Enter Sammy Studios, who published Ash outside Japan. Sammy, better known for arcade hits, was making a push into console publishing. Backing a cult sequel like Ash was a gamble — but one that kept Polygon Magic’s vision alive.

In Ash, Rion returns to face Ash, Dorothy’s terrifying final “child.” The environments are bigger, the visuals cleaner, and combat more polished — but the mechanics of psychic dependency remain. If anything, the sequel leans harder into the disturbing edge of the original, at a time when most horror games were chasing cinematic prestige.

Why the Galerians Series Faded

Both Galerians and Ash were outsiders in their eras.
- On PS1, Galerians got lost among juggernauts like Resident Evil and Silent Hill.
- On PS2, Ash was overshadowed by games that redefined the genre’s future.
But more importantly:
- Drug dependency as gameplay – Brilliant but controversial.
- Edgy, bleak storytelling – No power fantasy, just tragedy.
- Cult status only – Without mainstream traction, the series couldn’t sustain sequels.
That’s why, in my opinion, Galerians won’t ever get a revival. It’s too raw, too edgy, and too tied to mechanics modern publishers wouldn’t dare touch.

Playing Galerians Today

Even if the series is gone, I still revisit it. My Miyoo Mini makes replaying Galerians on the go super nostalgic, though to be honest, I prefer my RG28XX most of the time — the horizontal form factor just feels better for those tricky trigger-based psychic powers.

As for Ash, it’s comfortably sitting on my tablet and phone, where I chip away at it in short bursts. With Halloween around the corner, it’s the perfect time to step back into that bleak, oppressive world.

Final Thoughts

Galerians may never return, but maybe that’s for the best. It burned bright in its moment, dared to go where few games would, and left behind something unforgettable. For me, replaying it now isn’t just nostalgia — it’s a reminder of when horror games weren’t afraid to disturb you, not just scare you.

And honestly? In a genre packed with monsters and gore, I’ll take one tragic psychic teen overdosing his way through the apocalypse any day.
4th Oct 2025
A Beginner’s Guide to The Last Remnant’s Union System – Explained the Way I Understand It
Through the years, whenever my buddies ask me what game I’m grinding on my phone that feels long and epic, one of my top answers has been The Last Remnant Remastered on mobile.

Now, don’t get it twisted—I’m no pro at this game. In fact, I’d still call myself a beginner even after all the hours I’ve sunk into it. But maybe that’s exactly why I want to talk about it. Because when I first picked it up, I was just as lost as anyone else, especially with the game’s biggest curveball: the Union System.

This is my take on it—not as an expert, but as someone who slowly figured things out and wants to make it a little less confusing for the next beginner diving in.

So What’s the Deal With the Union System?

Before The Last Remnant, JRPGs mostly stuck to familiar formulas:
- Classic Turn-Based (like Dragon Quest or Final Fantasy I–X) → You control each character one by one, pick from “attack, magic, item, defend,” and watch the turns play out. Simple and reliable.
- ATB – Active Time Battle (popularized by Final Fantasy IV–IX) → Each character has a gauge that fills in real time. When it’s full, you act. It added pressure and speed to the turn-based formula.
- FFXII’s Gambit System (2006) → This one let you pre-program AI behavior, like “if ally HP < 50%, then cast Cure.” It was revolutionary for letting battles play out more automatically but still under your rules.
And then along comes The Last Remnant. It said: “Forget controlling individuals—what if you controlled squads instead?”

That’s the Union System. Instead of giving commands to each party member, you organize them into unions (basically mini-teams). You don’t pick every spell or attack. You issue orders to the entire squad, and they act as one.

This flipped combat into something totally different. Suddenly, you’re less like a hero leading a party and more like a commander directing armies. Positioning, morale, and squad synergy mattered just as much as raw stats.

For some players, that shift felt groundbreaking. For others—me included when I first tried it—it felt confusing as hell.

The Flow of Battle – What You Do Before You Even Swing

The real fight doesn’t start when you press “attack”—it starts in how you set up your unions. As a beginner, this part felt overwhelming to me because you have to think about:
- Who leads each union (leaders bring skills and arts)
- Who fills the squad (soldiers add stats and stability)
- What formation you’re using (offensive, defensive, or balanced setups)
And then, once you’re in a dungeon or field, you also have to pay attention to enemy groups. Do you charge them head-on? Try to flank? Or split your unions to keep them from surrounding you?

This whole “prep before action” makes fights feel more like mini war puzzles. If you mess up the setup, the battle feels 10x harder no matter how strong your characters are.

Commands – The Clear and the Confusing Ones

Once the fighting actually starts, the game gives you commands for your unions. Some are straightforward and easy to understand:
- Attack with combat arts! → your melee moves
- Attack with mystic arts! → your spells
- Heal with remedies! → your items and recovery
But then you get the vague stuff like:
- Play it by ear
- Go all out!
- Wait and see
And here’s where the frustration kicks in. As a beginner, I remember just staring at those and going, “What am I actually telling my squad to do?”

How I Learned to Read the Vague Commands

After a lot of trial and error (and a few rage quits), here’s how I’ve come to understand those vague orders:
- Play it by ear → Think of it as “do what makes sense.” The union might attack, heal, or buff depending on the situation. Good for balanced teams.
- Go all out! → Pure offense. They’ll blow AP, use their strongest moves, and ignore healing. Best for when the enemy’s on the ropes.
- Wait and see → Defensive or conserving mode. They’ll defend, poke with weak moves, or just save AP. Use it when you’re setting up or trying to survive.
- Save them no matter what! → Your emergency revive/heal button. Everyone drops offense to bring allies back.
- Keep your HP up! → Focuses on healing and survival above all else.
Once I started thinking of them like battle moods instead of strict commands, they made a lot more sense.

Strategy – When to Use What

Here’s my beginner advice on using these commands without losing your mind:
- Use “Play it by ear” for balanced unions that can attack and heal. It gives the AI room to adapt.
- Use “Go all out” when you know you’re safe or you just need raw damage to push through.
- Use “Wait and see” to stall or when you’re trying to build AP for big moves later.
- Use “Save them no matter what” sparingly, because sometimes it wastes turns if no one is actually down.
- Use “Keep your HP up” when facing tough bosses or multiple enemy unions that can shred you in a turn.
It’s not perfect—you’ll still sometimes scream at your squad for making dumb choices—but it’s part of the chaos that makes this system fun.

Wrapping It Up – Why I Still Recommend This Game

Here’s the truth: The Last Remnant is still hard to understand, even today. If you’re new, the Union System will feel overwhelming and the vague commands will confuse you. But once you get past that hump? The game transforms. Battles feel bigger, strategies feel deeper, and experimenting with different unions actually becomes addictive.

That’s why I keep it on my phone. I’ve spent hours tweaking squads, retrying fights, and just enjoying the controlled chaos of this system. And yeah, the mobile remaster costs around $19.99, which isn’t exactly cheap. But for me? If I dropped twenty bucks and didn’t play it, that would be the real waste.

So I keep coming back. And maybe that’s the magic of The Last Remnant: it doesn’t hold your hand, but once you start to get it, you’ll want to stick around and keep learning.
23rd Sep 2025
The EZRetro plays Handbook: 10 Games to Get You Hooked on the RG28XX

It’s been barely two weeks since I got my RG28XX, and I’ve been completely glued to it. Like a kid with a new toy, I’ve been switching between games non-stop, quickly learning what plays well and what doesn’t. As a JRPG/RPG fan, I naturally gravitate toward that genre. But let’s be real about the PSP emulation: it’s a bit of a hit-and-miss.

The Allwinner H700 chipset is powerful for a budget device, but most PSP games are a bit laggy, and some are downright unplayable due to the missing analog stick. Plus, the screen’s resolution isn’t a perfect 16:9 match for the original PSP, so you have to scale and fit it to fill the screen, which is a no-no for purists.

But for someone not too picky about screen size and is more focused on playing something on a small retro handheld, it’s perfect.

Even with the quirks, limiting recommendations to just RPGs doesn’t do this little handheld justice. It’s given me the chance to play other games, and after two weeks of non-stop play, here’s my top 10 games to try.

Prinny 2: Dawn of Operation Panties, Dood!

psp box art

I’ll be honest—I’ve never been great at platformers on PSP using my phone. The tiny screen, touch overlays, and lack of a proper controller made even basic levels frustrating. But on the RG28XX, everything changed. While the screen is a bit cramped and the buttons are small, I finally beat the first level and a saw Etna inside the castle. It felt like a real win.

Gameplay-wise, Prinny 2 is a classic side-scrolling platformer, but Nippon Ichi Software adds its signature style. The animations are smooth, and the game’s humor is just absurd enough to keep you laughing even while dying repeatedly. You’ll really end up caring about the side characters and NPCs, dood!

Fun Fact: Nippon Ichi’s dialogue is so ridiculous and over-the-top that even minor characters steal the spotlight. I’m not usually a fan of side-scrolling platformers, but Prinny 2 had me invested in the story and the laughs, and that’s what matters most.

Kisou Ryuhei Gunhound

Kisou Ryuhei Gunhound is a side-scrolling mecha shooter that had me glued from start to finish. You pilot your giant robot through futuristic stages filled with enemies and obstacles. The controls on the RG28XX are precise enough that even intense shooting sequences feel smooth.

The story follows a world under siege, and while it’s not particularly deep, the excitement comes from blasting through waves of enemies and upgrading your mecha. For someone who enjoys mecha and action, this is a perfect handheld experience.

Fun Fact: Despite its small screen, the RG28XX handles the visuals perfectly, making every boss fight feel as epic as it would on a console.

ZHP: Unlosing Ranger vs. Darkdeath Evilman

Unlosing Ranger psp box art

ZHP is one of the quirkiest tactical RPGs I’ve ever played. You lead a colorful, bizarre team through strategic missions filled with absurd story beats and hilarious dialogues. On the RG28XX, it feels surprisingly comfortable, even during long grind sessions.

The game’s humor is its standout feature, but don’t mistake it for a joke game—the strategy is real. Positioning your characters and timing your attacks can mean the difference between victory and defeat.

Fun Fact: Some levels are so absurdly funny that you’ll spend more time laughing than strategizing, which is part of the charm. It’s a tactical RPG that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

Ys vs. Sora no Kiseki

This one is a little different from the others on my list. Ys vs. Sora no Kiseki is a fighting game that’s a total love letter to fans of both the Trails and Ys series. You get to play through each character’s unique story arc, and you can upgrade their equipment and customize them, which really makes you want to keep playing long after the main story is over. That ability to customize is what gives it some serious replay value.

Fun Fact: A worldwide release is scheduled for October 10, 2025, on PS4, PS5, Switch, and PC with enhanced features, according to the publisher refint/games.

TwinBee Portable

TwinBee Portable is a vertical shooter with an aesthetic that’s so colorful it’s almost hypnotic. Controlling the ship is straightforward, making it easy to pick up on the RG28XX. The power-ups add a layer of strategy to the simple shooting mechanics, turning it into a deeper experience than it first appears. Since it’s a Japanese-only release, I’m just assuming the story is light and charming, but seriously, who needs a story when what hooked me to this game is the retro vibe and pure nostalgia? It’s the kind of game that’s easy to jump into for a quick session or a longer run.

Fun Fact: TwinBee’s charm comes from its cheerful music and playful visuals—Konami really nailed that arcade vibe.

Mega Man Powered Up

megaman powered up psp cover

Mega Man Powered Up is classic Mega Man with upgraded graphics and remade levels. It’s challenging but fair, and controlling the blue bomber on the RG28XX felt surprisingly natural. The satisfaction of finally defeating a tough boss never gets old.

The story is minimal but fun, staying true to Mega Man’s roots as a robot hero battling evil. The level design is clever, and each stage has its own personality.

Fun Fact: You can create and share your own levels, making it a mini creative outlet on the go.

Yuusha 30 Seconds

Yuusha 30 Seconds is a fast-paced mini-RPG where battles and decisions happen in short, exciting bursts. Perfect for handheld play, it keeps you on edge while still being strategic. The story follows a hero who must make quick choices to save their world, making every second count.

The gameplay of Yuusha 30 Seconds is what truly makes it a standout. Back when it was released, the concept was totally unique, and it still feels incredibly fresh today. The core loop is simple: you have 30 seconds to save the world. This crazy-fast timer forces you to make quick, strategic decisions. Every second counts as you run to level up, buy equipment, and defeat the final boss. It’s a genius concept that turns the traditional RPG grind on its head and keeps every moment filled with high-stakes action.

Fun Fact: Another title, Half-Minute Hero, was also released for western audiences on PSP. Although that’s a great game, I would still recommend hunting down an English translation patch for Yuusha 30 Seconds because the Japanese release is more challenging and has more content.

Dissidia 012 Duodecim (RPG Mode)

This one is a bit different. I play Dissidia 012 Duodecim in RPG Mode. There’s an option in the settings to switch from the usual action style to a more tactical RPG-style battle where you input attacks as the battle takes place.

While I’ll be honest, I usually play this on PPSSPP on my phone since the touch controls and ability to set hotkeys make the game more fluid for me, the RG28XX still offers a great experience in RPG Mode. Even with the controls being a bit cramped and the absence of an analog stick, it’s a perfect fit for this little handheld.

Fun Fact: Each character has a fully voiced story, and the massive cast includes heroes and villains from almost every major title in the series.

Zenonia

Zenonia is a classic hack-and-slash RPG that’s perfect for handheld sessions. You explore dungeons, fight enemies, and uncover a story of revenge and justice. The controls feel great on the RG28XX, making combat smooth and satisfying.

The story is simple but effective, with multiple endings that encourage replayability. I love how easy it is to pick up and play without losing any of the RPG charm.

Fun Fact: Zenonia was so popular that it eventually found its way to mobile devices, becoming one of the early success stories for JRPGs on the app store.

Patapon 3

Patapon 3 perfectly blends rhythm and strategy. You command a tiny Patapon tribe in battles that are essentially musical performances. The gameplay is simple, but timing your beats correctly feels incredibly satisfying.

The story follows your tribe as they journey to conquer enemies and survive in a whimsical world. It’s easy to lose track of time because the rhythm-based gameplay is so addictive.

Fun Fact: The unique rhythm-strategy gameplay of Patapon 3 has a rich history. The first game introduced the unique concept of commanding a tribe with drumbeats. Patapon 2 built on that with the introduction of hero units, new classes, and a multiplayer mode. Patapon 3 then evolved the formula even further with a persistent online focus, a more detailed leveling system, and an even deeper focus on the central hero character.

Final Thoughts

This list proves that the RG28XX can handle far more than just RPGs. From humor and platforming to epic storytelling and rhythm, this little handheld really delivers, and I can’t wait to see what other hidden gems I discover next.

19th Sep 2025
Anbernic RG28XX Review – A Pocket-Sized PSP Machine?
Lately, I’ve been on the lookout for a small device to play JRPGs and RPGs on the go. Being a fan of the Miyoo Mini, I first decided to get the Miyoo A30 since the Miyoo Mini was the handheld that originally got me into retro handheld emulation. Sadly, I only had it for about a day. I was just getting used to the Spruce OS when I lost it on my way home from work.

After that, I made a second purchase—the Miyoo Mini V4—and it became my only handheld for quite some time. I absolutely love this little device. It’s powerful enough to play up to PS1 games, and I’ve been having a blast playing in short bursts throughout the day. The only drawback for me was the lack of PSP emulation.

Back in my young adult years, the Sony PSP defined a lot of my gaming moments. I loved it so much that I actually owned three of the four PSP models—the Phat, the PSP-2000, and the PSP-3000. Naturally, I wanted to relive those moments on a small retro handheld that fits perfectly in my pocket. These days, I don’t have much free time to play, so I needed something small, powerful enough to handle PSP, and affordable.

That’s when the Anbernic RG28XX was recommended to me. Since it was also the only device available near me, I finally went ahead and made the purchase.

Specs

The Anbernic RG28XX is designed as a compact retro handheld that balances portability with enough power to emulate systems up to PSP. It runs on the Allwinner H700 chip with 1GB of RAM, and comes with a 2.83-inch IPS screen at 640×480 resolution. Storage is handled through dual microSD slots — one for the system and one for your games — making it easy to expand or swap your library.

Battery life is rated around 5–6 hours, though this depends on what you’re playing.

Screen & Firmware

On paper, the RG28XX’s 2.83-inch IPS display is about the same size as the Miyoo Mini, and brightness is solid enough indoors while staying usable outdoors unless you’re in direct sunlight. Colors pop nicely, and RPG text is generally clear.

But since I mainly use this for PSP emulation, the aspect ratio difference really stands out. PSP games were designed for 16:9, while the RG28XX screen is a square 4:3. That means you’ll either play with black bars on the top and bottom or stretch the image, which doesn’t look quite right. On top of that, because of the device’s horizontal form factor, text in PSP games feels a little smaller than it should. It’s subtle enough not to ruin the experience, but it nags at me every time I play.

The stock firmware works fine but takes some getting used to. Coming from Onion OS on the Miyoo Mini, which was simple and intuitive, this felt a bit clunky at first. There are a lot of hotkeys to memorize, and I’m not the type who enjoys flipping through an instruction manual just to figure things out. After a week, I’m still adjusting, but once you learn the shortcuts it’s manageable.

Controls

When I first got the RG28XX in hand, I immediately noticed how small everything feels. The D-pad is a bit pointy for my taste, and the face buttons are tiny — I really wish they felt more like the Miyoo Mini’s, which are softer and more comfortable.

The trigger buttons (L1/L2 & R1/R2) and the select/start buttons are also on the clicky side. They work fine, but they don’t feel as smooth as I’d like. After a week, I’m still not fully adjusted. There’s also a slight rattle inside the unit — not enough to break the experience, but noticeable if you shake it.

Sound

For a device this small, the sound is decent but not amazing. The bottom-facing speaker is fine for quiet rooms, but your palm can cover it up depending on how you hold the handheld. Volume is enough indoors, but outdoors or in noisy areas, headphones are a must.

Thankfully, the headphone jack gives a much better experience. RPG soundtracks really come alive with headphones, pulling me back to the PSP days.

Battery Life

On paper, the RG28XX is rated for 5 to 6 hours of gameplay, especially with lighter systems like NES or PS1. PSP drains it faster.

But since I don’t play in marathon sessions, my real-world use is different. I usually play in short bursts — maybe 20–30 minutes here and there — and with that, I can run it for about two days without charging. Charging via USB-C is quick and convenient, and since most of my devices already use USB-C, it’s hassle-free.

Ergonomics

The RG28XX absolutely wins in portability. It slips into my pocket and I don’t even feel it’s there until I need it. For quick sessions, it’s perfect.

That said, because of the size, long play sessions can get uncomfortable. My hands cramp after a while, especially with the small buttons and stacked triggers. My unit came with a black silicone case, which adds grip and protection, but it makes the already small buttons feel even more cramped. I usually play without it for comfort.

Emulation & PSP Performance

The RG28XX can handle all the classics — NES, SNES, Game Boy, Mega Drive, PC Engine, and PS1 — with no issues at all.

But I got this for PSP emulation, so that’s where I focused. For 2D RPGs and JRPGs, the device does well enough to be enjoyable. Some stutters appear in effect-heavy scenes, but with a little tweaking in PPSSPP, you can get most titles to run at playable speeds.

I was able to play Final Fantasy Type-0 with some remapping. Since there’s no analog stick, you can toggle the D-pad to act as analog by quickly tapping the power button on the right. It takes some getting used to, but it works. Save states and the PSP menu work just like they do on mobile PPSSPP, which I love.

Not all games run smoothly though. My favorite, Tactics Ogre: One Vision, slows down during dialogue scenes, and I’m still experimenting with settings to smooth it out. Turn-based games are generally playable, but heavier 3D titles will definitely push the limits.

Pros & Cons

Pros
- Pocket-sized and ultra-lightweight
- Bright 2.83-inch IPS screen
- Handles retro systems up to PS1 smoothly
- PSP emulation is playable with tweaks
- Save states via PPSSPP
- Solid build quality for the price
- Comes with a silicone case for protection
Cons
- Cramped controls; small, pointy D-pad and tiny face buttons
- Triggers and select/start buttons are too clicky
- No analog stick — remapping required for many PSP games
- Occasional rattling inside
- PSP performance is hit or miss, with stutters in some titles
- Long sessions can cause hand cramps
Final Thoughts

After a week with the RG28XX, I can say this: it’s a fun little handheld. If what you want is something super portable, pocket-friendly, and affordable, it gets the job done. It lets me carry PSP and retro classics in my pocket, and that alone makes it worth it for me.

But it’s not perfect. The 4:3 screen doesn’t play nice with PSP’s native 16:9 aspect ratio, which means black bars or stretched visuals. The text also feels smaller than it should, especially compared to the Miyoo Mini, and I notice it every time. Controls are also cramped and take time to get used to.

If you’re serious about PSP emulation and want a more authentic experience with analog sticks, widescreen support, and stronger performance, then honestly something like the Retroid Pocket 4 is the better option. It’s bigger, sharper, and more comfortable for longer play sessions.

But if your priority is a tiny handheld that slips into your pocket and still lets you enjoy your favorite RPGs and PSP titles on the go, the RG28XX absolutely delivers on that promise. For me, that balance makes it a keeper.
18th Sep 2025
Gunhound – My Go-To PSP Mecha Game for Short Bursts

When I need a quick break in between tasks, Gunhound on PSP is the game I usually go to. It’s fast, it’s exciting, and it scratches that itch for a mecha action experience without needing hours of commitment. It’s not available on smaller retro handhelds like the Miyoo Mini since those can’t run PSP games, but if you’ve got a Miyoo Mini Plus, Flip, or any other handheld that supports PSP, it plays beautifully.

I actually just picked up the Anbernic RG28XX recently. I was looking for the Miyoo A30 but couldn’t find one locally, so this became my alternative. Luckily, it runs PSP titles smoothly, and Gunhound feels right at home on it.

A Bit of History

Gunhound EX (full title: Kisou Ryouhei Gunhound EX) came out in Japan back in 2013 for the PSP. It was developed by a small Osaka-based team called Dracue Software, a doujin (indie) studio known for loving mecha games. Later on, the game got a Windows PC port in 2014 with the title Armored Hunter Gunhound EX.

The reception was decent, especially from fans of old-school mecha shooters like Assault Suit Valken (Cybernator) and Assault Suit Leynos. Famitsu gave the PSP version a 29 out of 40, and Western reviews of the PC port hovered around 7 to 8 out of 10. Reviewers praised the fast-paced action and anime-style presentation, though some said it felt like the ideas could’ve gone even further.

As for sales, there’s no reliable number out there — it was a niche release, after all, and never really broke into the mainstream. That’s also one of the reasons it isn’t famous: it was a Japan-only release on PSP, with no official English localization. But honestly, who needs a full translation when your main job is to pilot a mech and fire at anything that moves?

Dracue didn’t become a big studio after this either. Gunhound EX remains their standout game — more of a cult classic than a widely recognized PSP hit.

The Story

The game’s setup is straight out of a 90s mecha anime. You pilot a heavy combat machine through different missions, fighting waves of enemies, giant bosses, and military hardware that just keeps coming. The story isn’t super detailed, but it’s enough to push you forward between battles and cutscenes. The real fun is in the action, not reading walls of text.

Game Mechanics

The mix of mechanics makes Gunhound really stand out. You get machine guns, missiles, and one of the coolest parts — a grappling hook. It’s not just for climbing but also for swinging and repositioning during fights. That little touch changes how you approach stages, giving it a different flavor compared to standard run-and-gun games.

The game captures that heavy mech feeling while still staying responsive. You’re not zipping around like a ninja; you’re piloting a powerful machine that has weight to it, and learning that rhythm is half the fun.

Controls

The controls feel surprisingly smooth for a PSP mecha game. Swapping weapons, firing, and using the grappling hook all click into place once you’ve played a couple of missions. On handhelds with good buttons and a d-pad, like the RG28XX or Miyoo Mini Plus, the game plays almost like it was built for these smaller devices.

Why It Fits on a Small Retro Handheld

This is where Gunhound really shines for me. The missions are short enough to pick up and play in between tasks, and the anime-inspired visuals scale perfectly to smaller screens. The intensity is still there, but it feels tighter and more personal when played on a handheld. For a game that’s all about quick bursts of action, portable is the way to go.

Every time I load this up, it gives me that mix of anime mecha excitement and arcade-style quick action. It doesn’t need hours of play, and the grappling hook always makes the combat feel fresh. I’ll tell myself “just one mission,” and then end up playing two or three because it’s so hard to put down once you’re in the zone.

Final Thoughts

Gunhound EX may not be a mainstream PSP classic, but it’s one of those hidden gems that deserves more attention. Between its anime-inspired mecha action, simple pick-up-and-play missions, and perfect fit for retro handhelds, it’s a game I recommend to anyone looking for something different on PSP. The lack of an English release probably held it back, but if you enjoy action that doesn’t waste your time, you’ll feel right at home with Gunhound.

14th Sep 2025