The handheld gaming scene is buzzing this week as early footage of Anbernic’s upcoming RG557 model surfaces online, showcasing shockingly smooth PlayStation 2 and Wii U emulation—a feat that has long eluded many portable devices. For retro enthusiasts craving classics like God of War and Mario Kart 8 on the go, this could be the holy grail they’ve been waiting for.
PlayStation 2 Powerhouse
A recently uploaded YouTube video (watch here) demonstrates the RG557 running PS2 titles like Shadow of the Colossus and Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater at near-full speed, with minimal frame drops. The device reportedly maintains a stable 30-60 FPS depending on the game, all while upscaling classics to 720p resolution. This performance leap is attributed to the RG557’s rumored quad-core processor and upgraded cooling system, which prevents throttling during extended play sessions.
Wii U Surprise: Yes, Really
Even more surprising is the handheld’s ability to handle Wii U emulation—a system known for its complexity. A second video (linked here) features The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (Wii U version) and Super Mario 3D World running at playable speeds. While not flawless, the gameplay appears remarkably smooth, with touchscreen integration hinted at for managing the Wii U’s dual-screen setup.
Hardware That Delivers
The RG557’s specs remain partially under wraps, but leaks suggest a 5.5-inch IPS display, 4GB of RAM, and Android 13 as the base OS, allowing access to a wide range of emulators. Its ergonomic design, akin to a bulkier Nintendo Switch Lite, includes hall-effect joysticks and customizable buttons—a win for both comfort and precision.
Pre-Orders and Pricing
Anbernic has yet to announce an official release date, but the device is already listed on Amazon for pre-order (check availability here). Priced at an estimated $199, it positions itself as a premium option in the emulation handheld market, though early reactions suggest the performance may justify the cost.
Community Reactions
Retro gaming forums are alight with excitement, though some remain cautiously optimistic. “If this delivers what the videos show, it’s a game-changer,” wrote one Reddit user. Others speculate whether GameCube and Switch emulation could also be viable, given the hardware’s capabilities.
The Bottom Line
The Anbernic RG557 isn’t just another emulation handheld—it’s a bold step toward portable gaming’s future, bridging the gap between nostalgia and modern performance. While questions about battery life and real-world testing linger, the early footage paints a thrilling picture. For those ready to relive the PS2 and Wii U eras anywhere, this device might just be worth the hype.