Tag: retro gaming

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
Top 10 Horror-Themed Games to Play on the Sega Genesis

The Miyoo Mini might have a small 2.9-inch screen, but that’s exactly what makes it perfect. It’s a portal back to those quiet nights hiding under a blanket, playing in secret long after bedtime. You can almost feel that moment again, the dim light of the screen, the hum of the fan, the fear of hearing footsteps outside your door.

And with Halloween coming, there’s no better way to relive that feeling than through the dark side of the Sega Genesis. The console may not have had realistic horror, but it mastered atmosphere and dread. These games didn’t rely on gore alone. They worked through tone, tension, and gameplay design that still holds up today.

So get comfortable, dim the lights, and step into the shadows of 16-bit horror.

10. Ghouls ’n Ghosts (1989)

Capcom’s Ghouls ’n Ghosts is a brutal test of skill set in a world crawling with undead knights, demons, and grotesque monsters. As Arthur, you battle through crypts and cursed landscapes to rescue souls and reclaim your armor piece by piece.

What stood out: It demanded precision and pattern recognition. Every enemy’s timing mattered, every jump had consequences, and the punishment for mistakes made victory feel monumental. It was horror through tension and vulnerability.

Fun Fact: The Genesis version was one of the console’s first faithful arcade ports, helping cement Sega’s reputation for serious, challenging games.

9. The Immortal (1990)

An isometric dungeon crawler drenched in darkness, The Immortal forces players to survive traps, monsters, and cruel puzzles in an underground labyrinth.

What stood out: The focus on environmental hazards created genuine dread. Rooms weren’t just obstacles; they were death traps waiting for you to make a single wrong move. The sense of caution it inspired turned every step into a risk.

Fun Fact: The game’s fight scenes used zoom-ins and blood animations rarely seen on the Genesis, adding an early cinematic feel to combat.

8. Gargoyles (1995)

Based on the darker Disney animated series, Gargoyles delivers gothic platforming at its best. You play as Goliath, a cursed stone warrior battling demonic enemies across medieval castles and stormy skylines.

What stood out: The animation and movement system gave Goliath a real sense of weight and power. Climbing walls, gliding through the air, and smashing enemies felt tactile and brutal. The visual direction remains one of the Genesis’ most atmospheric achievements.

Fun Fact: The developers used multiple parallax layers and shadow mapping to achieve its stormy, cinematic look, pushing the hardware late in its life cycle.

7. Altered Beast (1988)

One of Sega’s earliest Genesis titles, Altered Beast remains a haunting blend of mythology and horror. You rise from the grave as a resurrected warrior, transforming into werewolves, dragons, and other beasts to defeat the underworld’s creatures.

What stood out: The transformation mechanic was the centerpiece. Each form had unique attacks and movement styles, forcing you to adapt on the fly. Its slow pacing and eerie resurrection theme gave it a mythical horror feel that still defines early Genesis identity.

Fun Fact: Altered Beast was originally bundled with the Sega Genesis as a pack-in game before Sonic the Hedgehog took over the role in 1991.

6. The Ooze (1995)

You play as a mutated scientist turned blob, crawling through labs and cities in search of revenge. The Ooze is grotesque, slow, and suffocating — perfect for horror.

What stood out: The control system tied your health directly to your size. The more you moved or attacked, the smaller and weaker you became. It forced restraint and calculation, turning movement itself into a risk.

Fun Fact: The developers wanted players to feel both powerful and helpless, a rare design goal that perfectly fit the game’s tragic tone.

5. Chakan: The Forever Man (1992)

Adapted from Robert Kraus’ comic, Chakan follows an immortal warrior cursed to fight until every evil creature in existence is destroyed. It’s grim, relentless, and soaked in atmosphere.

What stood out: The non-linear level design gave players the freedom to choose their path, but every stage was built to punish overconfidence. Its combat system demanded precise timing and mastery of weapon effects, making survival itself a victory.

Fun Fact: True to its source, Chakan ends with the hero realizing that even eternal victory offers no peace, and he must continue fighting in the afterlife.

4. Alien 3 (1993)

Alien 3 delivered sci-fi horror with precision. As Ripley, you race through labyrinthine corridors to rescue prisoners before they’re consumed by xenomorphs.

What stood out: The time-based mission structure made it feel more like survival horror than an action game. You couldn’t afford to waste time or ammunition. The result was a constant push-and-pull between urgency and fear of failure.

Fun Fact: The randomization of alien encounters kept players tense, since you never knew when something might burst out of the shadows.

3. Castlevania: Bloodlines (1994)

Bloodlines was Konami’s answer to the question, “What does gothic horror look like on Genesis?” The result was a masterpiece of atmosphere and mechanical depth.

What stood out: Its dual protagonists changed the traditional Castlevania formula. John Morris could swing across gaps, while Eric Lecarde used vertical spear thrusts for aerial combat. This gave every level two distinct ways to play, adding complexity without sacrificing the series’ haunting mood.

Fun Fact: The European version, Castlevania: The New Generation, toned down violence and color palette due to censorship, making the U.S. version the definitive dark experience.

2. Splatterhouse 2 (1992)

No subtlety here. Splatterhouse 2 was horror incarnate, a side-scrolling bloodbath inspired by ’80s slasher films.

What stood out: The slow, deliberate combat created tension in every movement. The physics of your attacks made you feel both powerful and vulnerable. Each strike and scream lingered, making progress feel like survival rather than victory.

Fun Fact: The developers slowed the game down from its arcade counterpart to make combat heavier, emphasizing dread between each attack.

1. Splatterhouse 3 (1993)

The final and finest chapter of Genesis horror, Splatterhouse 3 evolved from a straightforward brawler into a psychological test. With branching paths, timed missions, and multiple endings, it turned horror into a moral struggle.

What stood out: The time mechanic transformed the experience. Each minute you spent fighting or exploring changed who lived or died. It turned urgency into a narrative weapon, and that tension hasn’t aged a day.

Fun Fact: Splatterhouse 3’s branching storylines made it one of the earliest console games to integrate player performance into narrative outcomes.

Final Thoughts

The Sega Genesis didn’t need realism or jump scares to create horror. Its best games relied on tone, challenge, and imagination to get under your skin. Whether it was through the slow dread of Splatterhouse, the gothic majesty of Castlevania, or the mythic resurrection of Altered Beast, these titles captured the essence of fear in 16-bit form.

Playing them on a Miyoo Mini or any handheld today still feels just as eerie. There’s something timeless about these pixelated nightmares that modern games can’t quite replicate.

So turn off the lights, pull the blanket over your head, and let the old horrors come alive again.

13th Oct 2025
Top 20 Sega Genesis Beat ’Em Ups You Can Play on the Miyoo Mini
I made this list originally for my Miyoo Mini, that pocket-sized retro handheld that’s perfect for quick gaming breaks. These Genesis titles are ideal for short bursts — just enough time to clear a few stages, save, and come back later. Of course, you can play them on PC or mobile too, but the Miyoo Mini makes them shine in bite-sized sessions.

This is my countdown of the Top 20 Sega Genesis-exclusive (and Japan-only) beat ’em ups, ranked from 20 to 1. One game per franchise, all of them packed with that 16-bit energy Sega was known for.

20. Shadow Blasters (1990)

If you’ve never heard of Shadow Blasters, don’t worry you’re not alone. This Genesis-exclusive action brawler lets you switch between four warriors, each harnessing elemental powers to clean up a post-apocalyptic Earth. It’s rough around the edges, but the variety and frantic pace make it a hidden gem for Miyoo Mini short sessions.

Fun fact: The game was published by Sage’s Creation, one of the first companies to localize smaller Japanese titles for the Genesis — giving us oddball cult classics like this one.

19. Battle Mania: Daiginjou (1993, Japan)

Technically a shooter, but its crazy boss fights and melee energy fit right in here. Bursting with attitude and chaotic energy — pure early ’90s Sega spirit.

Fun fact: It was developed by a small all-female team at Vic Tokai, which was unusual for the time.

18. Golden Axe III (1993, Japan)

The last Genesis Golden Axe game, never officially released in the West. It adds new moves and smoother animation, even if it lacks the polish of II.

Fun fact: It was originally meant for international release, but Sega of America rejected it for being “too similar” to its predecessors.

17. Yu Yu Hakusho: Makyo Toitsusen (1994, Treasure)

Four-player brawling madness with fluid animation and surprising depth. You don’t need to know the anime to have fun — just start swinging.

Fun fact: This was one of the first console games to allow four players to fight at once, predating Smash Bros. by years.

16. Ranger X (1993, Sega)

A mecha brawler that mixes shooting and close combat. Its visuals are still impressive today, and the controls are shockingly fluid for a Genesis title.

Fun fact: The developer, GAU Entertainment, created a custom tool to simulate lighting and shadows — years before the Genesis supported such effects.

15. Alien Soldier (1995, Treasure)

A boss rush masterpiece with lightning-fast combat and high difficulty. It’s short but intense, and perfect for quick bursts on the Miyoo Mini.

Fun fact: Treasure intentionally limited physical production in Japan, making original copies one of the rarest Genesis releases.

14. Sword of Vermilion (1990, Sega)

A strange mix of RPG and beat ’em up where battles shift into side-view brawls. It’s rough, but charming — a reminder of when Sega loved to experiment.

Fun fact: Yu Suzuki, the creator of Shenmue and OutRun, produced this game early in his career.

13. Shadow Dancer: The Secret of Shinobi (1990, Sega)

A slick ninja action game where your dog companion attacks enemies on command. It’s fast, satisfying, and plays beautifully in short sessions.

Fun fact: The Genesis version is completely different from the arcade release — a rare case where the home port is its own game.

12. Two Crude Dudes (1992, Sega)

A loud, over-the-top brawler where musclebound heroes clean up a ruined city. You can lift cars and toss enemies around like ragdolls.

Fun fact: The game’s U.S. title was changed from Crude Buster to Two Crude Dudes to make it sound more like an action comedy.

11. ESWAT: City Under Siege (1990, Sega)

Half shooter, half brawler — you’re a cyber cop taking down gangs with heavy armor and a jetpack. It feels like Robocop with a Sega twist.

Fun fact: ESWAT began life as an arcade beat ’em up before Sega rebuilt it from scratch for Genesis as a more action-platformer hybrid.

10. Splatterhouse 2 (1992, Namco/Sega)

A gory, horror-themed brawler with simple mechanics and an unforgettable mood. It’s creepy, violent, and strangely satisfying.

Fun fact: Sega toned down the gore slightly for the Western version, but fans later restored it through fan translations.

9. Last Battle (1989, Sega)

A launch title that wears its Fist of the North Star inspiration proudly — punch enemies and watch them literally explode. Primitive but iconic.

Fun fact: The Western release censored the blood and removed Kenshiro references, turning it into a completely new story.

8. The Hybrid Front (1994, Sega Japan)

Part strategy, part brawler, and totally unique. It’s a strange mix that works best for players who like experimentation in their Genesis games.

Fun fact: Sega’s internal dev team reused parts of its code years later for Shining Force II’s tactical systems.

7. Mazin Saga: Mutant Fighter (1993, Sega)

A hybrid of side-scrolling combat and giant robot duels. You fight as a human first, then transform into a mech for boss battles.

Fun fact: The game is based on Go Nagai’s manga Mazin Saga, which was still running in Japan when this came out.

6. Cyborg Justice (1993, Sega)

You build your own robot fighter, rip off enemy parts, and graft them onto yourself. It’s chaotic but addictive.

Fun fact: The devs wanted destructible environments, but Sega cut the feature to keep the frame rate stable.

5. Golden Axe II (1991, Sega)

Classic fantasy co-op done right. Ride beasts, cast magic, and swing axes through medieval mayhem — still one of Sega’s best.

Fun fact: The team reused the same engine as the first Golden Axe but doubled the animation frames to make attacks smoother.

4. Bare Knuckle III (1994, Sega Japan)

The original, uncensored version of Streets of Rage 3. Faster and grittier than the Western release, with deeper combat and new mechanics.

Fun fact: The English version removed one entire level and toned down character designs to avoid controversy overseas.

3. Alien Storm (1991, Sega)

A fast-paced alien-busting brawler with co-op and shooting stages that break up the action. It’s quirky, colorful, and pure Sega fun.

Fun fact: Alien Storm was built on a modified Golden Axe engine — you can feel it in the combat flow.

2. Comix Zone (1995, Sega)

You’re a comic artist trapped in your own creation, literally punching your way through panels. Stylish, short, and endlessly creative.

Fun fact: Sega’s dev team studied Marvel and DC comics to nail the page transitions — all drawn by hand before being digitized.

1. Streets of Rage II (1992, Sega)

The ultimate Genesis brawler and one of the best beat ’em ups ever made. Tight controls, iconic visuals, and Yuzo Koshiro’s unforgettable soundtrack.

Fun fact: The composer reportedly used actual nightclub tracks as references, mixing early techno and house influences to get that signature sound.

Why Battletoads Isn’t Here

You might be wondering where Battletoads is. The Genesis version looks and plays great, but it’s not an original Sega title since it started on the NES. So while it’s not part of this countdown, it’s still worth playing on your Miyoo Mini if you’re ready for the infamous speeder bike level.

Other Great Brawlers That Didn’t Make the Cut

These didn’t make the list but are still fun to revisit:
- Mighty Morphin Power Rangers – flashy and straightforward.
- Captain America and the Avengers – chaotic superhero fun.
- Batman Returns – dark, moody, and solid.
- TMNT: The Hyperstone Heist – not exclusive, but essential.
- Battletoads & Double Dragon – crossover madness, but again, not Genesis-exclusive.
Final Thoughts

The Sega Genesis library was full of attitude, and its beat ’em ups were the loudest of them all. Whether you’re revisiting these on a Miyoo Mini or firing them up on an emulator, they still deliver that same 16-bit punch that made Sega’s glory days unforgettable.

Thanks for reading my vlogs and posts. Got a Genesis brawler I missed? Drop it in the comments — I’m always looking for the next hidden gem.
11th Oct 2025
Otogirisō (1992): The Flower That Haunts — Revisiting Chunsoft’s Sound Novel That Defined Retro Horror
I first stumbled upon Otogirisō while browsing through old Super Famicom titles a few weeks ago. At first, I thought it was just another forgotten horror visual novel — until I learned it was actually one of the original sound novels, the very foundation for everything that came after from Chunsoft. With an English translation patch available, I decided to load it up on my Miyoo Mini, and it instantly became one of my favorite finds this October.

It’s perfect for the Halloween season, a game that doesn’t rely on visuals or gore but on atmosphere, sound, and storytelling. The kind of horror that creeps in slowly, like a whisper instead of a scream. And playing it with earphones on, in the dark, made it feel like I was sitting right there inside that mansion as the storm raged outside.

On the drive, the conversation turns to the roadside flowers, and the protagonist explains what they are. He tells Nami about the Otogirisō — St. John’s Wort — and the old legend that goes with it. The tale is simple and brutal: two brothers once lived together, betrayal ripped them apart, one killed the other, and from the ground where the blood spilled the Otogirisō bloomed. That moment, me telling Nami the story as the rain fell, hooked me immediately. It sets the tone, and the subtle sounds in the background — tires on wet asphalt, distant thunder, soft static — made the whole scene sink into my bones.

I named the protagonist Bob for my playthrough, after my favorite wrestler, Bob Backlund. Call him what you want, the game lets you, and that little choice made the nightmare feel oddly personal.

Inside the Mansion

Otogirisou snes cover

From the moment Bob and Nami enter, you’re greeted by creaking wood, thunder rolling above, and faint music that seems to breathe with the house itself. You start to explore, and immediately you can sense the unease — the mansion feels alive.

Unlike modern horror games that rely on visuals, Otogirisō lets the sound design do the heavy lifting. Every pause between lines feels intentional, like the mansion itself is waiting for you to make the wrong move.

Ps1 cover for Otogirisou

The story then splits into multiple routes based on your decisions — and this is where Otogirisō truly shines. Each route isn’t just a different ending; it’s a different truth about what’s happening in the mansion. The game contains many endings across multiple routes, and replaying is how you slowly assemble the full picture.

Route 1: The Curse of the Twins

This is the route that hit me the hardest — not because it’s the scariest, but because it’s the most tragic.

If you comfort Nami, stay close, and focus on exploring personal rooms like bedrooms and the study, you begin to pull at threads of the family’s history. Dusty diaries and portraits reveal twin sisters, an uneven love, and a household that fell apart from jealousy. Nami’s memories come back in flashes, she recognizes corners of the house, and gradually it becomes clear that this once was her family home.

The final scenes are devastating: Nami confronting the twin she was never allowed to be, a sense of completion that’s more a claim than a cure. The Otogirisō flower imagery returns, blooming in scenes of rain and memory. The sound drops to a single soft note as the screen fades. It’s sorrow more than terror, and it lingers because it’s about loss, not spectacle.

What stands out: the emotional weight and how grief is foregrounded over cheap shocks. The slow pacing lets the player absorb the inevitability, which made it one of the most affecting endings I’ve experienced in a retro horror title.

Route 2: The Fire

If you act boldly — exploring suspicious rooms, probing basements, and pressing on despite warnings — you unlock the Burned route.

This path centers on a night the mansion went up in flames. As Bob finds charred letters and witness fragments, a picture forms of betrayal that boils over into arson. The house’s blackened halls echo with the memory of fire, and the sound design leans into crackles and whispers that suggest the blaze never truly died.

The twist is how premeditated the violence turns out to be. It wasn’t a random catastrophe but an act of calculated revenge from the heart of the family. Nami’s sanity fractures as she relives those screams, and the ending can leave you trapped watching the fire consume everything while you’re helpless.

What stands out: the suffocating inevitability and the way the game uses environmental details to imply history. Flames are suggested rather than shown, and that suggestion becomes dread. The Burned route feels like punishment for curiosity, both for the characters and the player.

Route 3: The Well

This one is the most unexpected and disturbing.

If you explore the grounds early and investigate the well, the tone shifts from gothic family drama to something more monstrous. You find notes that read like lab journals, sketches of malformed creatures, and entries hinting at ritual experiments. The story implies that someone in the household tried to bridge life and death with grotesque methods.

When the well is opened, the game leans into sound and pacing — wet, heavy noises, a rising heartbeat in the music track, text flashing faster — and the horror becomes physical. You don’t see the creature clearly; you hear it. The ending is abrupt and cosmic, with Nami dragged into something ancient beneath the house and the final line: “The Otogirisō blooms again.”

What stands out: how the game can pivot to cosmic horror within the same narrative framework, and how sound alone conjures an image far worse than literal spritework could manage. It’s one of the weirdest and most effective surprises I’ve seen in retro horror.

What makes it stand out

Otogirisō doesn’t rely on jump scares. Its horror is built from suggestion, from the space between lines. The storm, the piano that mimics a heartbeat, the way Nami’s voice trembles over static, these elements build a tension that’s more intimate than loud.

What makes the experience eerie and enjoyable:
- Personal stakes: because you name the protagonist and make choices about how to treat Nami, the horror feels intimate.
- Sound-first design: the noises and silence create a private theater in your head — you imagine the worst, and the game confirms it.
- Route-based truths: each route reveals a different facet of the mansion’s curse, so every playthrough reframes what you thought you knew.
Final Thoughts

Otogirisō isn’t a game you play for jump scares. It’s a game you experience for atmosphere — the unease, the sorrow, and the weight of what’s left unsaid. Playing it on the Miyoo Mini with headphones made the story feel intimate and immediate, like a ghost story folded into a pocket-sized book.

The legend I told Nami on the road — of two brothers and the flower that grew from betrayal — isn’t just a setup. It’s the beating heart of the game. After seeing the routes, every ending felt like another stanza of that same lament. The image of the Otogirisō blooming from pain will stay with me, long after the rain has stopped in the game and in real life.

If you want something to play this Halloween that doesn’t just frighten but haunts, give Otogirisō a night. Name your protagonist, maybe call him Bob, and let the mansion whisper its stories into your headphones.

Because here, horror doesn’t scream, it whispers — and sometimes that’s far more terrifying.
10th Oct 2025
Top 5 Dragon Ball Games That Still Hold Up Today (Retro Edition)

Even decades later, some Dragon Ball games just refuse to fade away. Whether you grew up button-mashing on a Sega Genesis or charging up Kamehamehas on your PSP, these classics remind us why Dragon Ball has been a staple in anime gaming.

This list is by no means the definitive “best of all time” — how great a game feels will always be subjective. But for me, someone who still plays these titles on retro handhelds, these are the five that stand out the most. They’re what I personally consider my top five Dragon Ball games to revisit and enjoy even today.

1. Dragon Ball Z: Buyuu Retsuden (Sega Genesis, 1994)

Before 3D arena fighters and flashy transformations, Buyuu Retsuden gave Genesis owners a taste of pure 2D fighting action. It was fast, fun, and brought iconic battles to life in glorious 16-bit form — long before most of us even dreamed of full 3D Dragon Ball games.

Why it holds up: Tight controls, nostalgic visuals, and that signature Genesis energy make this a must-play for retro fighting fans.

Fun Fact: The game had secret moves and even “Super vs. Super” clashes where two characters could unleash ultimate attacks at the same time, creating a mini-game of energy waves. You could also block supers with precise timing — rare for its era and incredibly satisfying when pulled off.

2. Dragon Ball Z: Buu’s Fury (Game Boy Advance, 2004)

An action RPG that lets you relive the Buu Saga while leveling up, exploring areas, and smashing enemies in real time. For handheld players, Buu’s Fury was the ultimate way to feel like a Super Saiyan on the go.

Why it holds up: Classic pixel art, rewarding combat, and a surprisingly emotional story for a GBA title.

Fun Fact: Buu’s Fury is actually the third in the Legacy of Goku trilogy. It took everything that worked in Legacy of Goku I and II — tighter combat, smoother transformations, better story pacing — and perfected it. Out of all three, Buu’s Fury is easily the best and most polished GBA Dragon Ball adventure.

3. Dragon Ball Z: Tenkaichi Tag Team (PSP, 2010)

Portable, explosive, and still one of the most fun Dragon Ball games to this day. Tenkaichi Tag Team let you fight solo or team up for wild 2v2 battles, bringing console-level gameplay to a handheld screen.

Why it holds up: Fast-paced combat, deep combos, and an iconic roster that’s still unmatched on PSP.

Fun Fact: Think of this as a lighter, portable version of Budokai Tenkaichi on PS2 — but with tons of content, customizations, and a full story mode. There’s also another hidden gem on PSP called Dragon Ball Z: Shin Budokai, a 2.5D fighter — but between the two, Tenkaichi Tag Team stands taller thanks to its bigger roster, polish, and those chaotic 2v2 battles.

4. Dragon Ball: Advanced Adventure (Game Boy Advance, 2004)

This one’s a gem. Covering Goku’s original adventures — from meeting Bulma to the final battle with King Piccolo — Advanced Adventure mixes platforming, exploration, and fighting into one charming package.

Why it holds up: It’s one of the few games that perfectly captures the humor, adventure, and heart of classic Dragon Ball. Plus, that 2D art style still looks fantastic today.

Fun Fact: This game is pure nostalgia — an action-platformer that tells Goku’s early story as a kid. It blends adventure, one-on-one battles, and side-scrolling action so well that even after all these years, it still plays great and captures the true spirit of early Dragon Ball.

5. Dragon Ball Fusions (Nintendo 3DS, 2016)

While it’s newer than the others, Fusions carries that old-school Dragon Ball spirit — letting you fuse just about anyone with anyone. The result? A chaotic, creative RPG that celebrates everything fun about the franchise.

Why it holds up: Unique mechanics, colorful visuals, and endless replay value make this one a modern classic with retro DNA.

Fun Fact: What makes Fusions stand out is its deep customization system — you can fuse different characters to create completely new fighters, customize your looks, fighting type, special moves, and skills. It’s a dream come true for fans who ever wished to create their own warrior in the Dragon Ball universe.

Final Thoughts

From Buyuu Retsuden’s 16-bit punches to Advanced Adventure’s playful nostalgia, these games prove that Dragon Ball’s legacy in gaming is just as strong as its anime roots.

Thanks for reading — it really means a lot. Which Dragon Ball game defined your childhood? Drop it in the comments — let’s talk classics.

8th 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