Avsnitt
-
This week, Federico drops a big gaming surprise on John after the two of them cover the latest Switch 2, MSI, and Anbernic handheld news.
Also available on YouTube here.
Links and Show Notes
The Latest Portable Gaming News
Nintendo
Samsung making its chips at potentially higher volumes than expected Nintendo Turns to Samsung to Make Chips, Ramp Up Switch 2 Production Mario Kart World originally planned for OG Switch Ask the Developer Vol. 18 Mario Kart World — Part 1SteamOS
Valve’s huge Steam Deck update is now ready for everyone, including rival AMD handhelds How To Install SteamOS On The ROG Ally And ROG Ally XHandhelds
Anbernic RG34XXSP First Impressions Big Forehead, Bigger Potential Screen Shenanigans? UPDATE Anbernic Responds Anbernic RG34XXSP’s ‘Five-Head’ Bezel Masks a True 43 Screen MSI Claw A8 MSI Claw A8 handheld gaming PC has a Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip with 16-core graphics - Liliputing MSI Claw A8 with AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme Debuts at Computex 2025 MSI’s new handheld gaming PC ditches Intel for AMDThunderbolt 5 eGPUs
It’s still early but the TB5 eGPUs are coming Lilbits Asus ROG XG Station eGPU dock with Thunderbolt 5, AYANEO Flip 1S handheld gaming PC, and Microsoft’s new command line text editor Sparkle unveils Studio-G Ultra 850, its first Thunderbolt 5 eGPU solution- [Gigabyte presents AORUS AI BOX, GeForce RTX 5090 desktop GPU with Thunderbolt 5](https://videocardz.com/newz/gigabyte-presents-aorus-ai-box-geforce-rtx-5090-desktop-gpu-with-thunderbolt-5)
A Very Ticci Surprise
Inside Tech Lian Li A3 Razer PC Remote Play Officially LaunchesSubscribe to NPC XL
NPC XL is a weekly members-only version of NPC with extra content, available exclusively through our new Patreon for $5/month.
Each week on NPC XL, Federico, Brendon, and John record a special segment or deep dive about a particular topic that is released alongside the “regular” NPC episodes.
You can subscribe here: https://www.patreon.com/c/NextPortableConsole
Leave Feedback for John, Federico, and Brendon
NPC Feedback FormCredits
Show Art: Brendon Bigley
Music: Will LaPorteFollow Us Online
On the Web
MacStories.net Wavelengths.onlineFollow us on Mastodon
NPC Federico John BrendonFollow us on Bluesky
NPC MacStories Federico Viticci John Voorhees Brendon BigleyAffiliate Linking Policy: https://www.macstories.net/privacy-policy/
-
This week, Federico and John round up the many new Switch 2 details that have emerged as launch day draws near. Plus, they share two new and interesting handheld rumors from Anbernic and Miyoo and more.
Also available on YouTube here.
This episode is sponsored by:
Inoreader – Boost Productivity and Gain Insights with AI-Powered Intelligence ToolsLinks and Show Notes
The Latest Portable Gaming News
Nintendo News Nintendo warns it may brick Switch systems whose users “bypass, modify, decrypt, defeat, tamper with” their games and services The Switch 2 has a handy battery preservation mode Most Best Buys will have extra Switch 2 stock on launch day New Switch 2 specs show large performance dip in undocked mode Nintendo Switch Games with Free Nintendo Switch 2 Updates Hori Switch 2 Accessories Include The Console’s First Third-Party Pro Controller Nintendo Apologises For Error With Mention Of Switch 2 VRR TV Support Steam Deck Valve will soon let you know if a game is compatible with your SteamOS device Handheld Rumors Miyoo ‘Mini’ Flip Miyoo Mini Flip Blurry Spy Shots of an Anbernic RG Slide Could Anbernic Really Be Working on a Modern PSP Go Computex is ComingSubscribe to NPC XL
NPC XL is a weekly members-only version of NPC with extra content, available exclusively through our new Patreon for $5/month.
Each week on NPC XL, Federico, Brendon, and John record a special segment or deep dive about a particular topic that is released alongside the “regular” NPC episodes.
You can subscribe here: https://www.patreon.com/c/NextPortableConsole
Leave Feedback for John, Federico, and Brendon
NPC Feedback FormCredits
Show Art: Brendon Bigley
Music: Will LaPorteFollow Us Online
On the Web
MacStories.net Wavelengths.onlineFollow us on Mastodon
NPC Federico John BrendonFollow us on Bluesky
NPC MacStories Federico Viticci John Voorhees Brendon BigleyAffiliate Linking Policy: https://www.macstories.net/privacy-policy/
-
Saknas det avsnitt?
-
This week, Nintendo is back to its litigous ways, Backbone has a new controller, the Anbernic RG34XXSP is real, and not one but two ASUS Rog Ally 2s leak in FCC filings.
Also available on YouTube here.
Links and Show Notes
Brendon spots an NPC parking lot.The Latest Portable Gaming News
Nintendo Nintendo began working on Switch 2 shortly after the release of Switch 1, new Genki lawsuit papers reveal Covers lawsuit and Genki’s response Nintendo expects the Switch 2 to be just as successful as the original Seems like this is low-balled The Louvre will stop renting out Nintendo 3DS audio guides in September Anbernic RG34XXSP Announced https://retrohandhelds.gg/anbernic-rg34xxsp-announced/ Anbernic RG34XXSP Video iOS Gaming Backbone Pro adds Bluetooth and battery, turning the top iPhone gamepad into a universal controller The new Backbone Pro could be the one controller for all your gaming ASUS ROG Ally 2 Leaks ASUS ROG Ally 2 gaming handhelds leaked up to AMD Ryzen Z2 ExtremeSubscribe to NPC XL
NPC XL is a weekly members-only version of NPC with extra content, available exclusively through our new Patreon for $5/month.
Each week on NPC XL, Federico, Brendon, and John record a special segment or deep dive about a particular topic that is released alongside the “regular” NPC episodes.
You can subscribe here: https://www.patreon.com/c/NextPortableConsole
Leave Feedback for John, Federico, and Brendon
NPC Feedback FormCredits
Show Art: Brendon Bigley
Music: Will LaPorteFollow Us Online
On the Web
MacStories.net Wavelengths.onlineFollow us on Mastodon
NPC Federico John BrendonFollow us on Bluesky
NPC MacStories Federico Viticci John Voorhees Brendon BigleyAffiliate Linking Policy: https://www.macstories.net/privacy-policy/
-
This week on NPC, Federico, Brendon, and John chart which handheld makers are still shipping to the U.S. in the wake of steep tariffs, then explore how speedrunners are stress‑testing Breath of the Wild at Nintendo’s Switch 2 hands‑on events. Plus, they update listeners on Nintendo’s release of version 20 of the original Switch’s firmware, how a contempt order against Apple could unlock new business models for developers, the surprising arrival of JIT on the App Store, Nothing’s launch of the CMF Phone 2 Pro, and how Anbernic and Ayaneo are defying economic uncertainty by releasing new handhelds.
Also available on YouTube here.
Links and Show Notes
The Latest Portable Gaming News
Tariffs: Good News and Bad Retroid Updates Shipping Policy for U.S. Customers Powkiddy stopping U.S. shipments 8BitDo suspends US shipments from Chinese warehouse due to tariffs Switch 2 News Speedrunner Beats The Legend Of Zelda Breath Of The Wild Switch 2 Edition At Preview Event Switch update 20.0.0 adds Virtual Game Cards, GameShare, Switch 2 transfer iOS Gaming StikDebug brings JIT to the iPhone JIT enabler lands on App Store, likely unlocking Wii and Switch emulation on iOS An ‘official’ Flappy Bird game is back, but it has nothing to do with the original creator. Handhelds Anbernic RG34XX SP May Drop Next Month AYANEO Pocket ACE hits Indiegogo (retro handheld with a 4.5 inch display and Snapdragon G3x Gen 2) Other hardware Nothing’s CMF Phone 2 Pro is an affordable phone with a unique modular ecosystemTopics
A Retroid Pocket Flip 2 UpdateSubscribe to NPC XL
NPC XL is a weekly members-only version of NPC with extra content, available exclusively through our new Patreon for $5/month.
Each week on NPC XL, Federico, Brendon, and John record a special segment or deep dive about a particular topic that is released alongside the “regular” NPC episodes.
You can subscribe here: https://www.patreon.com/c/NextPortableConsole
Leave Feedback for John, Federico, and Brendon
NPC Feedback FormCredits
Show Art: Brendon Bigley
Music: Will LaPorteFollow Us Online
On the Web
MacStories.net Wavelengths.onlineFollow us on Mastodon
NPC Federico John BrendonFollow us on Bluesky
NPC MacStories Federico Viticci John Voorhees Brendon BigleyAffiliate Linking Policy: https://www.macstories.net/privacy-policy/
-
This week, looming tariffs cause more handheld makers to pause shipments to the U.S., demand for the Switch 2 outstrips supply, John explains what the U.S. pre-order process was like, and we marvel at the restoration of a vintage Game Boy kiosk.
Links and Show Notes
Follow Up
Playdate, Season 2 PreordersThe Latest Portable Gaming News
Tariff Update Handhelds Tariff Roundup: What to Expect Odin 2 Maker Ayn To Join Anbernic In Pausing US Shipments Game Boy clone maker Anbernic suspends all shipments to US DHL halts international deliveries to US consumers worth over $800 Switch 2 Switch 2 Demand Outstrips Supply Switch 2 demand will far outstrip supply in Japan, Nintendo warns Nintendo Switch 2 preorders were a total mess — at first Paul Rudd ad Nintendo shares a vintage SNES commercial starring Paul Rudd as he reprises the role for Switch 2 John on what the pre-order process was like in the U.S. Restoring a Vintage Game Boy Kiosk I Restored an Abandoned GameBoy Kiosk via The VergeSubscribe to NPC XL
NPC XL is a weekly members-only version of NPC with extra content, available exclusively through our new Patreon for $5/month.
Each week on NPC XL, Federico, Brendon, and John record a special segment or deep dive about a particular topic that is released alongside the “regular” NPC episodes.
You can subscribe here: https://www.patreon.com/c/NextPortableConsole
Leave Feedback for John, Federico, and Brendon
NPC Feedback FormCredits
Show Art: Brendon Bigley
Music: Will LaPorteFollow Us Online
On the Web
MacStories.net Wavelengths.onlineFollow us on Mastodon
NPC Federico John BrendonFollow us on Bluesky
NPC MacStories Federico Viticci John Voorhees Brendon BigleyAffiliate Linking Policy: https://www.macstories.net/privacy-policy/
-
This week, John and Federico hold down the fort without Brendon, discussing U.S. Switch 2 pre-orders, Super Mario Kart World, upcoming hardware from Epilogue, Playdate’s Season 2, Razer Remote Play, and more.
Links and Show Notes
Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders in the U.S. Switch 2 Breath of the Wild will add weapon repairs through Zelda Notes Super Mario Kart World Nintendo Direct Federico’s new ASUS ROG Swift 27" 4K OLED PG27UCDM display Discussed on MacStories Unwind Epilogue SN Operator news Playdate Season 2 Announced How to Watch Live TV On Retro Handhelds With IPTV and muOS Razer PC Remote Play Officially LaunchesSubscribe to NPC XL
NPC XL is a weekly members-only version of NPC with extra content, available exclusively through our new Patreon for $5/month.
Each week on NPC XL, Federico, Brendon, and John record a special segment or deep dive about a particular topic that is released alongside the “regular” NPC episodes.
You can subscribe here: https://www.patreon.com/c/NextPortableConsole
Credits
Show Art: Brendon Bigley
Music: Will LaPorteFollow Us Online
On the Web
MacStories.net Wavelengths.onlineFollow us on Mastodon
NPC Federico John BrendonFollow us on Bluesky
NPC MacStories Federico Viticci John Voorhees Brendon BigleyAffiliate Linking Policy: https://www.macstories.net/privacy-policy/
-
This week on NPC, the trio analyzes how tariffs have disrupted Nintendo Switch 2 preorders in the U.S. Then Federico, John, and Brendon dissects new details that have emerged about the upcoming console, debate Nintendo’s game pricing, ponder what console exclusivity means in 2025, and share their excitement for the Retroid Pocket Flip 2.
Links and Show Notes
The Latest Portable Gaming News
Topics
Central Perk Brooklyn Perk Coffee Frame Rates Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour Nintendo Switch 2 games Games Switch 2 U.S. pre-order’s postponed due to tariffs. Nintendo boss on Switch 2 and tariffs: ‘we are actively assessing what the impact may be’ Nintendo diverts Switch 2 shipping from China to Vietnam for US buyers Accessories Switch 2 GameCube Controller Piranha Plant Camera for Nintendo Switch 2 More Switch 2 Details Our Big Nintendo Switch 2 Interview with Nintendo of America’s Bill Trinen Switch 2’s full reveal analysed how powerful is Nintendo’s new hardware and is DLSS being used More Thoughts on the Nintendo Switch 2 Switch 2 Joy-Con Don’t Have Drift Resistant Hall Effect Sticks Deltarune Will Have Exclusive ‘Mouse Mode’ Content On Switch 2 What is a Console Exclusive Anymore? Hades II will launch first for consoles on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 Game Key Cards Switch 2 game-key cards won’t be account- or console-locked 📹 Has Nintendo Earned This Level of Confidence Retroid Flip 2 First Looks Retroid Pocket Flip 2 First Look, Powerful Clamshell AMOLED Handheld! Retroid Pocket Flip 2 FIRST LOOK Retroid Pocket Flip 2 Console-LikeSubscribe to NPC XL
NPC XL is a weekly members-only version of NPC with extra content, available exclusively through our new Patreon for $5/month.
Each week on NPC XL, Federico, Brendon, and John record a special segment or deep dive about a particular topic that is released alongside the “regular” NPC episodes.
You can subscribe here: https://www.patreon.com/c/NextPortableConsole
Credits
Show Art: Brendon Bigley
Music: Will LaPorteFollow Us Online
On the Web
MacStories.net Wavelengths.onlineFollow us on Mastodon
NPC Federico John BrendonFollow us on Bluesky
NPC MacStories Federico Viticci John Voorhees Brendon BigleyAffiliate Linking Policy: https://www.macstories.net/privacy-policy/
-
This week, Federico, John, and Brendon Bigley dive into Nintendo’s reveal of the Switch 2, analyzing the technical specifications, Mouse Control, the camera accessory, the new Pro Controller, Game Share, Nintendo’s strategy shift, and more.
Programming Note: We’re releasing this episode early while the Switch 2 news is still fresh. Therefore, there will be no episode on April 8th. Instead, we’ll be back on April 15th.
Rogue Amoeba: Makers of incredibly useful audio tools for your Mac. Use the code MS2504 through the end of April to get 20% off Rogue Amoeba’s apps.
Links and Show Notes
Nintendo Switch 2
Nintendo Switch 2 – Technical Specs Switch 2 is powered by a “custom processor made by Nvidia.” Game Key Cards New Pro controller The Pro Controller grips are based on the GameCube controller Nintendo Switch 2 Launches June 5 at $449.99, Bringing New Forms of Game Communication to Life Nintendo’s Switch 2 preorder process has strict requirements to thwart scalpers The Verge Nintendo Switch 2 camera available at launch, or you can use your own Polygon Nintendo Switch 2 – How to Buy – Official SiteSubscribe to NPC XL
NPC XL is a weekly members-only version of NPC with extra content, available exclusively through our new Patreon for $5/month.
Each week on NPC XL, Federico, Brendon, and John record a special segment or deep dive about a particular topic that is released alongside the “regular” NPC episodes.
You can subscribe here: https://www.patreon.com/c/NextPortableConsole
Credits
Show Art: Brendon Bigley
Music: Will LaPorteFollow Us Online
On the Web
MacStories.net Wavelengths.onlineFollow us on Mastodon
NPC Federico John BrendonFollow us on Bluesky
NPC MacStories Federico Viticci John Voorhees Brendon BigleyAffiliate Linking Policy: https://www.macstories.net/privacy-policy/
-
This week, Brendon, John, and Federico analyze the latest Nintendo Direct and what it reveals about the Switch 2’s rumored June launch. Then the trio dissects the many questions that Nintendo’s upcoming Virtual Game Cards system raises, explores the features of the Nintendo Today app, and debate the reported three-phase launch strategy for the next console. In the latest handheld news, they also cover the latest EmuDeck update, AYA NEO’s confounding mini PC, and an intriguing foldable from Huawei that’s perfect for DS emulation.
Links and Show Notes
The Latest Portable Gaming News
EmuDeck 2.4 launches, with support for new emulators, improved BIOS checkers and more Update AYANEO AM01S mini PC has a retro design, a 4 inch flip-up display, and AMD Strix Point inside Huawei Pura X Huawei Pura X launched, a foldable phone with 1610 widescreen Huawei’s new flip phone is weirdly wide Nintendo’s Switch 2 Launch Plans Insider Gaming Nintendo Switch 2 expected June 2025, launch to have 3-phase plan Nintendo’s “3-Phase Launch Plan” for Switch 2 - Wavelengths Also, Best Buy says preorders for Switch 2 open on April 2nd Nintendo’s March 27, 2025 DirectSubscribe to NPC XL
NPC XL is a weekly members-only version of NPC with extra content, available exclusively through our new Patreon for $5/month.
Each week on NPC XL, Federico, Brendon, and John record a special segment or deep dive about a particular topic that is released alongside the “regular” NPC episodes.
You can subscribe here.
Credits
Show Art: Brendon Bigley
Music: Will LaPorteFollow Us Online
On the Web
MacStories.net Wavelengths.onlineFollow us on Mastodon
NPC Federico John BrendonFollow us on Bluesky
NPC MacStories Federico Viticci John Voorhees Brendon BigleyAffiliate Linking Policy
-
This week, Brendon shares his surprising early impressions of the Ayn Odin Portal. Then Federico, John, and Brendon dive into Nintendo Switch 2 pricing rumors, explore the performance issues of Assassin’s Creed Shadows on M4 Macs despite being Steam Deck verified, and break down Qualcomm’s confusing new G-series chips powering upcoming handhelds. Then, the treo reacts to OneXPlayer’s chaotic ONEXSUGAR handheld and AYANEO’s new devices. Plus, Federico has exciting news about a DLSS plugin for Steam Deck that improves performance on games like Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, turning blurry gameplay into a sharp, high-settings experience.
Links and Show Notes
Follow Up
Federico attempted Portal mod Brendon’s Portal First Impressions Controller typing - signs of life for Windows handheldsThe Latest Portable Gaming News
Switch 2: analysts predict $400+ price and biggest console launch ever in June Xenoblade Chronicles X hints at Switch 2 performance improvements Assassin’s Creed Shadows is Steam Deck verified Qualcomm launches Snapdragon G3 Gen 3, G2 Gen 2, and G1 Gen 2 chips for gaming handhelds Snapdragon Announcements Next Generation Snapdragon G Series Portfolio Uplevels Handheld Gaming Experiences Retroid Confirms Pocket Classic SoC and Teases a New Handheld OneXSugar The OneXSugar asks what if Nintendo Switch could transform into Nintendo DS The Dual-Screen ONEXSUGAR Debuts at GDC 2025 3DS Emulator Azahar’s First Release Candidate Now Available AYANEO AYANEO Gaming Pad is an 8.3 inch gaming tablet with Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 AYANEO Reveals Pocket S2 and Gaming Pad - Retro HandheldsTopics
Decky Framegen - Game compatibility list! -
This week, Brendon, Federico, and John dive into the ongoing Retroid Pocket Mini controversy, discussing the scaling issues, community reactions, and what it means for consumers in the retro handheld space. After addressing Retroid’s troubles, they explore the Retroid Pocket Classic and pricing information for the Flip 2. To wrap up the week’s news, they cover SteamOS news, AYANEO’s confusing new teaser for the “Pocket Ace,” examine important new reports of Microsoft’s collaboration with ASUS on an Xbox-branded Windows handheld.
Links and Show Notes
Listener Question
Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3Retroid Follow-Up
Joey’s Retro Handhelds - the whole story NPC and the Retroid Controversy Retroid reportedly backtracks Pocket Mini return limits Screen teardown hereThe Latest Portable Gaming News
SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview In better Retroid news Retroid Pocket Classic specs What is going on with AYANEO? AYANEO Pocket Ace AYANEO Pocket S2 announced soon Is Anbernic About to Shake Up the Retro Handheld Space - Retro Handhelds Photo An ‘Xbox’ handheld in 2025?: Xbox’s new hardware plans begin with a gaming handheld in 2025 Microsoft isn’t launching its Xbox handheld this year, but Asus might beCredits
Show Art: Brendon Bigley
Music: Will LaPorteFollow Us Online
On the Web
MacStories.net Wavelengths.onlineFollow us on Mastodon
NPC Federico John BrendonFollow us on Bluesky
NPC MacStories Federico Viticci John Voorhees Brendon BigleyAffiliate Linking Policy: https://www.macstories.net/privacy-policy/
-
John, Brendon, and Federico are back for another week of handheld news, including a tiny bit of Switch 2 news, an up and down week for Retroid, DS handhelds inch forward, Samsung wonders if thumbholes are the perfect complement to thumbsticks, and AYANEO decides thumbsticks aren’t worth the trouble. Plus, Brendon shares NextUI and the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Controller.
Links and Show Notes
The Latest Portable Gaming News
Switch 2 info from the FCC The Nintendo Switch 2 will have NFC and Wi-Fi 6, FCC filings show The Verge Retroid’s mystery background device revealed Retroid Pocket Classic Unveiled A Return to Form - Retro Handhelds Six button version There’s a Six Button Retroid Pocket Classic - Retro Handhelds Retroid Mini Screen Issue It’s Official Retroid Pocket Mini Shader Issue Cannot Be Fixed - Retro Handhelds MagicX Targets DS Emulation with Zero 40 Specs Reveal - Retro Handhelds RPCS3 for Android Shares First Alpha Build - Retro Handhelds Samsung unveiled a prototype foldable handheld AYANEO Deletes Sticks & Reveals New $179 Pocket Micro ClassicTopics
MinUI Next 8BitDo Ultimate 2 First Impressions From 8BitDo From AmazonCredits
Show Art: Brendon Bigley
Music: Will LaPorteFollow Us Online
On the Web
MacStories.net Wavelengths.onlineFollow us on Mastodon
NPC Federico John BrendonFollow us on Bluesky
NPC MacStories Federico Viticci John Voorhees Brendon BigleyAffiliate Linking Policy: https://www.macstories.net/privacy-policy/
-
This week, Retroid Pocket Flip 2 specs are out, the Legion Go S disappoints, and we try to decipher what AYANEO is doing before reminiscing over a PictoChat clone on the iPhone and discussing the benefits of having a personal videogame shopper in Japan, and Brendon’s experience with the black Miyoo Flip.
Links and Show Notes
Introducing NPC XL - More NPC, Every Week
NPC: Next Portable Console is now weekly for everyone. Enjoy a new episode packed with handheld gaming news and other topics every Tuesday. We’re introducing NPC XL, a brand-new, members-only version of NPC with extra content, available exclusively through our new Patreon at $5/month. The video version of NPC will be published here going forward and includes all of the show’s back catalog as well as bonus material. NPC is joining the (awesome) TWG Discord server with a dedicated channel for community feedback and participation.Follow-Up
Quiet Retro Handhelds Anbernic RG Cube TrimUI Brick Miyoo FlipThe Latest Portable Gaming News
New details about the Retroid Pocket Flip 2 https://liliputing.com/retroid-pocket-flip2-is-a-faster-handheld-game-console-with-upgraded-controllers/ Legion Go S reviews Lenovo Legion Go S review an overpriced, underachieving handheld Lenovo Legion Go S review feels good, plays bad Federico’s handheld update Sold: - ROG Flow Z13-ACRNM RMT02 See: MacStories Unwind Godzilla vs. Ticci’s Surprise, Part 2 AYANEO is teasing a new version of the Pocket Micro https://x.com/AYANEO__/status/1892869316410036575 Speculation is it’s a version with no analog sticks - https://liliputing.com/ayaneo-classic-will-probably-be-a-tiny-gaming-handheld-with-simplified-controllers/ AYANEO kills its Flip AYANEO says the Flip handheld isn’t cancelled after all Epilogue Operator news The SN Operator from Epilogue is close to taking pre-orders, and the company is working on a 64 Operator. Plus Game Boy Camera support for the original operator is close. The Game Boy Camera as a Webcam I Used a Game Boy Camera for FaceTime Video Calls in iPadOS 17 and It Was Glorious Interesting project to make Windows better on handhelds Winhanced Brings SteamOS-Like Experience to Windows Handhelds - Retro Handhelds Winhanced - A better Windows Handheld Also Mentioned: PlayniteTopics
PicoChat or PictoChat Can You Tell the Difference - MacStories A visit to the in Kyoto Brendon’s thoughts on the black Miyoo FlipCredits
Show Art: Brendon Bigley
Music: Will LaPorteFollow Us Online
On the Web
MacStories.net Wavelengths.onlineFollow us on Mastodon
NPC Federico John BrendonFollow us on Bluesky
NPC MacStories Federico Viticci John Voorhees Brendon BigleyAffiliate Linking Policy: https://www.macstories.net/privacy-policy/
-
On the latest NPC, ASUS gaming phones, Retroid’s big surprise, and more Nintendo emulation drama, plus 8BitDo tries to solve the iPhone vertical controller problem, Federico weighs in on the Any Odin2 Portal, and the whole gang has nothing but love for the TrimUI Brick.
Links and Show Notes
Follow-Up
Bazzite Potential Effect of Tariffs on Retro Handheld CollectorsThe Latest Portable Gaming News
Chris Plante of Polygon reviews the AYANEO 3 Asus ROG Phone 9 FE launches as a (somewhat) cheaper gaming phone Asus ROG Phone 9 FE launches as a (somewhat) cheaper gaming phone Retroid Pocket Flip 2 Officially Teased Powkiddy taking pre-orders on V20 The Nintendo DS Drastic emulator is gone from Google Play8BitDo Micro Clip
8BitDo Micro controller Amazon Direct Link to ClipFederico’s First Impressions of the Ayn Odin2 Portal
Ayn Odin2 PortalTrimUI Brick
The gang shares their love for the Brick Amazon KeepretroCredits
Show Art: Brendon Bigley
Music: Will LaPorteFollow Us Online
On the Web
MacStories.net Wavelengths.onlineFollow us on Mastodon
NPC Federico John BrendonFollow us on Bluesky
NPC MacStories Federico Viticci John Voorhees Brendon BigleyAffiliate Linking Policy
-
This week, Brendon, Federico, and John consider how the Switch 2 will impact the wider handheld market, recap the specs and benchmarks for the Legion Go S and 2, and cover new devices coming from Anbernic and AYANEO. Then, Brendon shares his experience running Bazzite on the ASUS ROG Ally X.
Links and Show Notes
The Latest Portable Gaming News
What handheld PCs should do to fight the Nintendo Switch 2 Everyone is Underestimating Mouse Mode No screen, no controller, and absolutely no sense, just a power button and a USB port. Steam Brick Mod Legion Go S and 2 Legion Go S Benchmarks Legion Go 2 - Hands on first impressions CES 2025 How to Play Steam Games on Android [Pluvia Guide] The $900 Ayaneo 3 is the most exciting PC handheld the company’s yet made Anbernic seems to have a new SP model called the RG34XXSPRunning Bazzite on the ASUS ROG Ally X
ASUS ROG Ally X Bazzite Dbrand Killswitch Also mentioned: RGB Docking Station Genki SavePointCredits
Show Art: Brendon Bigley
Music: Will LaPorteFollow Us Online
On the Web
MacStories.net Wavelengths.onlineFollow us on Mastodon
NPC Federico John BrendonFollow us on Bluesky
NPC MacStories Federico Viticci John Voorhees Brendon BigleyAffiliate Linking Policy
-
It’s a packed episode with a post Switch 2 reveal vibe check and more on iPhone game controller innovation, plus John’s early impressions of the Ayn Odin2 Portal, Brendon’s review of the Miyoo Flip, and Federico’s long 2DS/3DS emulation journey.
Links and Show Notes
iPhone Controller Innovation
MCON’s Kickstarter Campaign 8BitDo’s Micro Controller Clip GamSir’s Unnamed Combo Controller and Battery Prototype More on Wavelengths and MacStories The Bitmo Lab GAMEBABYAyn Odin2 Portal
Website Retro Game Corps ReviewMiyoo Flip
On AliExpress Brendon’s review on Wavelengths Brendon’s video on YouTubeFederico’s 3DS Journey
Microsoft Surface 2 Duo Steam Deck EmuDeck Emulation Station iPad Pro 4 Lenovo Legion Y700 (2024 model), available only from China Note: Brendon mentioned that it const $300, but that’s the 2023 model Example of graphics quality Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3, which will be available worldwide soon Nintendo 2DSCredits
Show Art: Brendon Bigley
Music: Will LaPorteFollow Us Online
On the Web
MacStories.net Wavelengths.onlineFollow us on Mastodon
NPC Federico John BrendonFollow us on Bluesky
NPC MacStories Federico Viticci John Voorhees Brendon BigleyAffiliate Linking Policy: https://www.macstories.net/privacy-policy/
-
On this special edition of NPC, Federico, John, and Brendon react to Nintendo’s video announcement about the Switch 2, dig through every detail of the video for clues, and consider how things are likely to play out in the coming months.
Nintendo Switch 2 Announcement Reactions
Nintendo Switch 2 – First Look Trailer Nintendo Switch 2 Experience Nintendo Switch 2 has finally been announced, releasing 2025 GameCube Keyboard Controller GameCube AccessoriesCredits
Show Art: Brendon Bigley
Music: Will LaPorteFollow Us Online
On the Web
MacStories.net Wavelengths.onlineFollow us on Mastodon
NPC Federico John BrendonFollow us on Bluesky
NPC MacStories Federico Viticci John Voorhees Brendon BigleyAffiliate Linking Policy: https://www.macstories.net/privacy-policy/
-
In the first NPC episode of 2025, Brendon and John recap their CES experience with Federico, highlighting AMD’s new Z2 chips, the SteamOS-powered Legion Go S, and more. Together, they explore the technologies and trends poised to define the next generation of portable consoles.
Sponsored By:
Pika – Sign up today to start telling your story and use code NPC20 for 20% off your first year of Pika Pro.Links and Show Notes
Unpacking CES 2025
More from Brendon and John on the MacStories YouTube channel AMD Announces the Z2 Chip The new AMD Z2 chips are nice, ok, and weird Other Devices Asus ROG Flow Z13 (2025) brings AMD Strix Halo to tablets Up close with the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 FE, an incredibly compact flagship video card Thunderbolt 5 and ASUS’s new XG Mobile eGPU ASUS just announced the world’s first Thunderbolt 5 eGPU — the 2025 XG Mobile SteamOS News GeForce NOW CES 2025 Steam Deck and Mixed-Reality Devices Lenovo Legion Go S pre-orders are happening now at Best Buy Polygon SteamOS expands beyond Steam Deck Lenovo Legion Tab Lenovo’s new Legion Tab is an 8.8 inch Android gaming tablet for $500 and up GameSir X2S Controller Nitro Blaze 11 Hands-on with the Nitro Blaze 11, Acer’s massive new PC gaming handheldCredits
Show Art: Brendon Bigley
Music: Will LaPorteFollow Us Online
On the Web
Federico and John: MacStories.net Brendon: Wavelengths.onlineFollow us on Mastodon
NPC Federico John BrendonFollow us on Bluesky
NPC MacStories Federico Viticci John Voorhees Brendon BigleyAffiliate Linking Policy: https://www.macstories.net/privacy-policy/
-
To close out 2024, Federico, John, and Brendon present the first-ever HOTYs: the 2024 Handhelds of the Year awards, celebrating the best handheld gaming devices, custom firmware, and, of course, the Handheld of the Year.
Links and Show Notes
The 2024 Handhelds of the Year Awards
Best Handheld under 4" Winner: Anbernic RG35XXSP Runners-Up: Anbernic RG Cube AYANEO Pocket Micro TrimUI Brick Also Mentioned: Anbernic RG28XXH and RG49XXV Best Handheld Between 4 and 7" Winner: Any Odin 2 Runners-Up: Ayn Odin Mini Retroid Pocket 5 Best 7" or Larger Handheld Winner: Steam Deck OLED Runners-Up: Legion Go Asus ROG Ally X Best Custom Firmware Winner: MuOS Runners-Up: Spruce MinUI Best Overall Handheld for Retro Gaming Winner: The Smartphone Runners-Up: Anbernic RG35XXSP TrimUI Brick Ayn Odin 2 Best Overall Handheld for Modern Games Winner: Steam Deck Runners-Up Ayn Odin 2 Handheld of the Year Winner: Ayn Odin 2Credits
Show Art: Brendon Bigley
Music: Will LaPorteFollow Us Online
On the Web
MacStories.net Wavelengths.onlineFollow us on Mastodon
NPC Federico John BrendonFollow us on Bluesky
NPC MacStories Federico Viticci John Voorhees Brendon BigleyFollow us on Threads
MacStories Federico John BrendonFollow us on Instagram
MacStories Federico John BrendonAffiliate Linking Policy: https://www.macstories.net/privacy-policy/
-
As the year comes to a close, handheld makers haven’t slowed down. We have new devices in hand and on the horizon, plus Legion Go S and Switch 2 rumors, Brendon’s first impressions of the TrimUI Brick, Federico’s latest NDI streaming experiments, new AR glasses and more.
Sponsored By:
Pika – Sign up today to start telling your story and use code NPC20 for 20% off your first year of Pika Pro.Links and Show Notes
The MacStories DS Skins for Delta
Celebrate the MacStories Selects App of the Year with the MacStories DS Skins for Delta Available for $3.00 on the new MacStories StoreFollow-Up
Jason Snell gets a Miyoo Mini+ Upgrade+ segment Based on Brendon’s recommendation The Two Best Entry-Level Handhelds Are On Sale Anbernic RG35XXSP hardware updates Pokémon Emerald Legacy Video Update: Pokémon Emerald Legacy Out NowThe Latest Portable Gaming News
Android XR Sony, Lynx, And Xreal Are Building Android XR Devices Too Android XR is Google’s new operating system for headsets and smart glasses Android XR and Project Moohan hands-on Gemini is the killer app Hands-On With Samsung’s Android XR Headset, Shipping In 2025 Anbernic Hour: Anbernic RG34XX Anbernic is Just Making a Game Boy Advance No Tweaks Necessary Miyoo Flip Watch Demo video A trailer First Miyoo Flip Reviews (Sort Of) Pop Up On Youtube Lenovo Legion Go S leak shows renders of the cheaper handheld gaming PC Blurry shots of purportedly leaked Switch 2 Joy-ConTopics
TrimUI Brick: Brendon’s First Impressions No Tweaks Necessary My Simple TrimUI Brick Setup (MinUI Guide) Available from AliExpress and Amazon Federico Levels Up His NDI Setup Old device: Kiloview N40 New device: Kiloview N60 Vxio A Comprehensive Guide to Gaming on the Apple Vision Pro The XREAL One AR glasses On Amazon Satechi Mobile XR HubCredits
Show Art: Brendon Bigley
Music: Will LaPorteFollow Us Online
On the Web
MacStories.net Wavelengths.onlineFollow us on Mastodon
NPC Federico John BrendonFollow us on Bluesky
NPC MacStories Federico Viticci John Voorhees Brendon BigleyFollow us on Threads
MacStories Federico John BrendonFollow us on Instagram
MacStories Federico John BrendonAffiliate Linking Policy: https://www.macstories.net/privacy-policy/
- Visa fler
