The retro handheld gaming market is no stranger to fierce competition, but the latest twist in this pixelated saga has fans buzzing. Powkiddy, a beloved name among emulation enthusiasts, is reportedly gearing up to revive its iconic V90 clamshell handheld, aiming to dethrone recent favorites like the Anbernic RG35XX SP and the highly anticipated Miyoo Flip. Leaks suggest a refreshed V90 model could hit the scene soon, blending nostalgia with modern upgrades—and the community is already picking sides.
A Blast from the Past: The V90’s Legacy
Originally released in 2020, the Powkiddy V90 carved out a niche with its Game Boy Advance SP-inspired clamshell design, affordability, and solid emulation capabilities for 8-bit and 16-bit classics. While its hardware lagged behind premium competitors, its sub-$50 price tag and portability made it a hit among casual gamers and collectors alike. However, as brands like Anbernic and Miyoo began rolling out devices with sharper screens, faster processors, and sleeker designs, the V90 gradually faded from the spotlight—until now.
The Leak That Started It All
Rumors of a V90 resurgence exploded last week when RetroHandhelds.gg broke the news of a potential refresh. While Powkiddy has yet to confirm specifics, insider sources hint at a upgraded display, a more powerful chipset, and improved battery life. The original V90’s 3-inch IPS screen and Allwinner SoC could see significant tweaks, potentially narrowing the gap between Powkiddy’s budget darling and pricier rivals.
Clash of the Titans: How Does the V90 Stack Up?
The Anbernic RG35XX SP and Miyoo Flip have dominated recent conversations, each boasting unique strengths. Anbernic’s vertical-style RG35XX SP offers a crisp 3.5-inch display and robust Linux-based customization, while Miyoo’s Flip—a spiritual successor to its popular Mini series—promises a clamshell design with a vibrant screen and user-friendly OS. Both target the same retro-loving audience, but Powkiddy’s ace in the hole remains its aggressive pricing.
If the V90 refresh hits shelves at a rumored 60−60−70 range, it could undercut competitors by 20−20−30 while offering comparable performance. Key questions remain: Will Powkiddy enhance its build quality? Can it support more demanding systems like PlayStation 1 or N64? The answers could determine whether the V90 becomes a comeback king or a budget also-ran.
Community Reactions: Hype or Skepticism?
Over on Discord, retro gaming forums are split. Some users praise Powkiddy for sticking to its affordable roots, while others demand tangible upgrades. “The V90 was my first handheld—it’s why I fell in love with retro gaming,” shared one fan. “But if the new model doesn’t fix the d-pad and lag, I’m sticking with Anbernic.” Others are optimistic, speculating that a refreshed V90 could be the perfect travel companion for Pokémon ROM hacks and SNES gems.
Where to Buy and What’s Next
While official details are scarce, retailers like Amazon are already listing the original V90 at discounted prices, hinting at inventory clearance before a new launch. For now, prospective buyers are advised to wait—unless the allure of a $40 classic is too hard to resist.
Final Thoughts
The retro handheld wars are heating up, and Powkiddy’s gamble on a V90 revival could reshape the market. Whether it’s nostalgia, price, or performance that wins out, one thing’s clear: gamers craving a slice of the past have never had more options. Keep your eyes peeled—this clash of pixels and plastic is just getting started.
Featured image credit: RetroHandhelds.gg
