My friends: I made a grave mistake, and labeled Wind Waker as Link’s Awakening during the GameCube testing section. I hope you find it in your hearts to forgive this very serious error. This channel used to be good, but now it’s like Anbernic RG556 analog sticks - terrible!
I was thinking about it as well and it's cool to see people appreciate this insane technological opportunity. Definitely one of the major pluses in being a working adult the fact you can just buy those thingies. As a kid I remember getting this cheap multi game handheld system which was basically a tetris invader+calculator kind of thing, which was tons of fun but I could only dream of a PSX because poor haha...
@@ericestradax the experience is awesome. It will be my favorite handheld for a long time. Powerwise, it is about 9/10. If you want perfect PS2, probably gof9r Odin 2. Else, this is the device!
Aliexpress summer sale starts tomorrow. Im all set for picking up a $150-200 handheld. I think im gonna go with this over the RP4. Im surprised but i just love this screen.
Russ, I stumbled upon the whole retro handheld space, maybe a couple of weeks ago? In that time I have been consuming your content nonstop, I have been completely enamoured with the idea of buying a handheld and playing games from my childhood and tinkering about with the software and roms, etc. I don't know how many hours I have spent in the last couple of weeks, haha. It's crazy, on one day I went from having no idea what any of this is, to obsessing and keeping up with every new product review and now having a decent knowledge of all the brands, models, what to expect, what to look out for, eagerly awaiting new releases and constantly adding handhelds to my baskets on every single website hahaha. Thank you for everything, still haven't decided what my first device will be! RG556 is in the running though :)
Maybe wait until November before you buy. There'll be new ones out by then, from all the companies.... as soon as you buy one a better one will come out. Don't rush your decision. :)
@@jinstinky501 I hear you! November seems far away though haha. But yeah I am torn. I was thinking of maybe getting a budget device like the RG35XX-H to hold me over until new devices come out and decide to spend more on a much better one but then I am thinking that a budget device may just scratch the itch for a moment and I'll crave something more powerful even more. So no clue where to start and which would be the optimal route: get a budget device now, see how I like everything and wait until new devices launch to choose my next one, or go straight for a more premium device to avoid ending up eventually at the same place (and having spent more if I buy a budget one first). Decisions, decisions, hahaha.
@@jinstinky501 Right? I've been in this space since it started years ago and the last 5 years have been insane with new units coming out monthly. Anytime is a good time to jump in and have fun!
Thank you for including Dynasty Warriors! That was probably the game series I played the most on PS2 and I would not mind getting a handheld that can get be back into it. As always, awesome review, Russ. Keep up the great work!
Because of your videos, I have bought three different devices. They’re very well produced and I enjoy them. Thank you from someone that didn’t know Chinese devices existed last year.
I went ahead and bought the 556 just earlier this morning and I’m so excited for it to arrive! I loved the ergonomics of it right away and that screen is really stellar too, and seeing it in person is gonna be even better. I do already have a Retroid Pocket 4 Pro though, admittedly, but I absolutely love it and will balance using it and the 556 whenever possible Many thanks for this detailed review Russ, it went a long way in helping me decide to pick one up!
Many thanks for your reviews on this. I really find your thoughts and feedback as validation for my own thoughts and feelings so yeah I wanted to say thanks for all the effort you put in. It's definitely appreciated
Thank you for pointing out the more minute detail oriented things that a lot of us don’t generally think about. You do such an excellent job, sir! Thank you again!
One thing worth noting is that the analog sticks behaving that way is a software issue rather than the hardware itself. As reference those are the same sticks that the RG505 uses and they too feel like they are very prone to registering input on the cardinal directions rather than you being able to smoothly draw a circle with them. This goes away on the RG505 the second you install Gamma OS with the sticks becoming much smoother and accurate. Playing something like Mario 64 on the emulator or even Vampire Survivors from the Play Store allow you to notice the sheer difference in input response smoothness. It is like night and day so hopefully Anbernic can work that issue on their own software at some point because the sticks are actually pretty good.
Thanks for saying this as the main thing keeping me from selling my RP4Pro and switching to this was the analog sticks. Now I may have to rethink that.
Excellent review/comparison Russ. So glad you mention and focus more on the thumb sticks. So many devices have been using these Switch sticks for a while now and I hate them with a passion. Think I used them for two days when I got my Switch years ago and never touch them again, thank god for Amazon fast delivery. I am rocking an Odin 2 right now and it's really a fantastic system but not really pocketable and the dpad is on the wrong location for me. I grew up with the PlayStation and fighting games so dpad is everything, thus my RP4 Pro is on its way with the grip.
And here's me two weeks in enjoying my RG35XXH and this beast comes out. To be fair I've been out of the emulation handheld world since the GP2X sputtered out.
Ergonomics are important but there’s shockingly few people in this comments section talking about the screen. OLED is such a massive bonus, infinitely better contrast than LED or LCD displays, crt like response times making it great for retro gaming, and better color accuracy too. My perfect device is a Retroid Pocket 4 Pro with an AMOLED display, basically a true successor to the PS Vita which I adored.
@@RetroGameCorps you're right, I stand corrected. When I checked out the Alibaba link I didn't see any storage listed, but looking at their website it's there 🤦♂️
I'd been waiting so long to get this final review. Well not that long! I'm glad to hear plenty of positives about the rg556. As much as I like the aesthetics of the pocket 4, this screen just wins it hands down. Thank you!
I dove into the retro handheld world with the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro (RP4P) and I am in love with it. That being said, your opinion of the screen size and ergonomics comparison is spot on. After about two months of use, the RP4P screen size is just a tad too small for my perfect screen (although it is hardly a deal breaker and the upscale resolution helps with this) and I often find myself adjusting my grip once or twice on the RP4P to experiment with comfortability, depending on what I'm playing. Long story short, this review is an excellent display of the RG556. In my humble opinion, if you are ok with a slightly smaller screen and more processing power, the RP4P is your sub $200 handheld. If you prefer more perfectly comfortable grips and a larger screen size, go with the RG556. All hail the Odyn 2, which I will hopefully own one day haha.
THANK YOU so much for that android setup guide and this great review vid, this is my 1st android game handheld and you helped me out so much! GRATITIDE!
The Odin 2 screen already have very good colors, contrast etc, among the best for a ips panel, response time is Abit lacking but not enough of a concern for most people. Not worth it giving up the 6 inch to have this 5.5 OLED in my opinion. Need either a equivalent 6 inch OLED or a higher quality OLED (in areas such as colors/brightness/HDR/VRR) to be worth accepting the 15-20% downsize from 6 inch-> 5.5 inch.
I love how competition between Anbernic and Retroid is resulting in killer products. I can see the successor to the RG556 being perfect and probably irresistible if they improve the sticks to be on part with the RP4, plastic quality and Wi-Fi 6 for game streaming and get a bump in performance. The larger screen seems amazing. I definitely feel cramped playing on my RG353P and RP3+ screens. Been playing games on my iPad mini lately to have a larger screen actually. My eyes would be much happier with the 5.5 inch AMOLED screen on the RG556 for portable handheld use.
Nothing is perfect. The best you can hope for it close to or near perfection. Which is why this device is a great purchase. Will they get better and better? Sure but this one plays pretty much everything you could need up to PS2 and GC with some settings tweaks
@@tynao2029I already have the RG353P and RP3+ to hold me over to play games on. I'm not in a rush to get another imperfect device. I can easily wait for something that checks off more boxes, likely within the next round of devices in the next year.
Whole half a year behind this, but that ok computer shirt is hyper fresh. Everything in its right place is a favortie song of mine I went with blue and turned off the leds. Sticks are next + Gamma! 🍻
Russ thank you for the hard work on the reviews. It is interesting to see your personal stock in Retroid drop in value - from the RP4Pro anticipation vid to the post-launch market reality - You were hyped man! Like a spring fling, but the Odin 2 was waiting for you at home all along. Haha. There will always be a better one coming down the line, and I can imagine a Retroid 5 OLED ErgoGrip and/or Ayn Odin 3 Pocket that is a perfect match for you.
@@ryecatcher25 Definitely not irrelevant! But perhaps focused more on the tuning of the 40+ years worth of content we can play on these things. (Which Russ also does a great job of highlighting already… SMB widescreen!) I was mostly just surprised how quickly the 4pro took a backseat.
The OLED just kind of trumps everything else... Like the SD, I had the LCD version and was debating about "upgrading" to the Legion Go or the Ally, but then the SD OLED launched and the debate was over instantly. Ok, the performance is a little behind, but the leap in image quality is enormous.
That is literally the ONLY metric the RG556 beats the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro on. Everything else with the RG556 handheld screams mediocrity. The poor choice of plastics, the absolute crap analog sticks, the horrid Dpad (which from Anbernic is inexcusable), LED distraction lighting, only two colour ways and finally, the craptastic frontend. Sounds like a sure winner.
@@STR82DVDYou obviously weren’t watching Russ’ review. The ergonomics and the battery life are also very clear winners here over the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro. I think this one is a win overall for Anbernic, and I say that as a proud owner of the 4 Pro. Credit where credit is due, Anbernic really upped their game with this device.
@@williamegan6756 I watched. That's Russ:s opinion, it's not gospel kid. Attach the ergonomic grip available from Retroid and the ergonomic advantage vanishes. Battery life, smattery life, the delta between the two units is negligible.
I have both the SD and the LEGO, and the LEGO has the best screen of any handheld, hands down. The deck's screen is a step up from LCD, and is great in it's own right, but it's really no contest with the LEGO screen. The LEGO has many other flaws though, like atrocious battery life.
Revisiting this because I am seriously considering the upcoming RG Cube. Both seems to have the same configuration. Can't wait to see the Cube in this channel.
it only took your "first look" for me to order one didn't want an Odin 2 doesn't really do anything my steamdeck oled doesn't already IMO, no oled is a bummer but the rg556 slots right in between the Steamdeck Oled and my rg35xx
You'd have to replace them. Those sticks just tilt and don't actually move from their center point, hence the flicky feeling. True analog sticks move with your thumb (Retroid Pocket 2S / 4 sticks). When Retroid dropped their latest devices with those new sticks I can't ever personally go back to those Switch style ones.
Now that i have owned both i must agree. Dsspite the performance difference the screen and ergonomics on the rg556 make it better. The rp5 and rp mini are both preordered. Now the screens will be similar but now with better performance❤
Huh! Stick on top and STILL looks nice and comfy for D-pad usage. Currently watching without sound so can't tell; will watch this properly later but this looks good.
Is the stick cardinality snapping a software issue (ie one that Anbernic (hah!) could sort out, or GammaOS could address)? Not a deal breaker for me, but it would be nice to have an option of switching snapping on and off. Some games, like Robotron, could benefit from the snapping, others not so much.
Russ, I wonder how many thousands of people you have helped get into this world, me for sure A LOT. I think just as we help developers, you should also be supported as what you do is simply amazing. Thank you 🙏. Now one question to you or anybody, I’m trying to run dragon quest 8, but I don’t know where to find the adjustments you say, I swear I looked almost everywhere I guess.
I see this question being asked on almost all retro handheld videos, the games come preloaded on the sd cards. If you purchase the system only then chances are there are no games. If you purchase the system with the sd card then they are usually preloaded with the games.
Got the RP4 Pro before Anbernic released the RG556, so I didn't really have to think about it. Now that I have it, I do wish it was more comfortable to play, but the fact that the sticks work so well makes it good enough that the portability overtakes the issues with comfort. It's a very portable device and the 720p screen, while small, is serviceable because of that size. Highly recommend it if you don't mind the lack of grips. (I ordered the grip accessory after, so I'm waiting to find out if that's a night/day improvement.
Agreed. The LED's are a total gimmick that only serves as a distraction. The RG556 is a nice device but I'm all in on the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro right now. With the ergonomic grip on the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro, there are just too many positives over the RG556 to be ignored.
I hate LEDs in handhelds so much. 99% of my handheld usage is at night, in bed, while my wife is trying to sleep 😅 The biggest feature I'd like to see is lower minimum screen brightness. I can't even use the R36s in bed because of how bright the front facing blue led indicator is. It's brighter than the screen. (Not to mention the issue where plugging in headphones doesn't stop the speakers from making sound...) It's very obnoxious.
Many but not all users want plug and play. I work in Financial Transformation but am not a Dev Techie. With these devices I want plug and play, and then download what I want through the UI/UX interface. I guarantee that if anyone in that comfort zone does what you suggest they will ruin their device. The tech orientated because they are geeks have no social life so have the time to fix it. Great video though and thank you for helping me discover.
Hey Russ! Great review and very informative as always! I have an off topic question if you don’t mind sharing. What shorts are you wearing in your pocketability test? I’ve actually been looking for some just like that, and it would be a bonus knowing they’d fit some of my recent handheld device purchases 😅. Thanks!
The 2 technical complaints I have is the convex sticks and the bottom facing speakers. Making the sticks concave and the audio front facing would make it an excellent device.
I preordered the RP4 Pro the day it went live. I don’t regret it at all but I do see how much better it could be if the screen was upgraded. Looks like Anbernic did really well on this one!
New to Handhelds, love the content! I pre-ordered the RG556 but I don’t know if I’ll be able to do much updates to it, since I only have a Mac. But man do I wish I could so the software would look clean like yours!
Been tossing up these two for my new device. Definitely leaning towards the 556 because of the AMOLED screen. It could be a little more powerful but tbh up to PS2 is just fine, There are bigger more powerful handhelds for that.
Hey Russ, thanks for the great video as always. The comparisons we often make are to the latest and greatest, but I realized the original Odin 1 and Odin Lite are now in a similar price range, and could be picked up second hand for cheaper as well. How do you feel this compares to the Odin 1 and Odin Lite in terms of controls/comfort as well ss performance? Thanks!
i wish you would show more 3ds testing, usually these machines will always run the consoles up to ps2/gamecube and even switch relatively well, but 3ds is always in question, wish you would show that testing more
Critique: Controls. I'd like to know how the buttons sound, are they clicky or smooth, will it be annoying to those nearby? Also does the d pad fireball and dragon punch well.... Good review and much appreciated.
My friends: I made a grave mistake, and labeled Wind Waker as Link’s Awakening during the GameCube testing section. I hope you find it in your hearts to forgive this very serious error. This channel used to be good, but now it’s like Anbernic RG556 analog sticks - terrible!
Done son!!
Unforgivable…
"This channel used to be good, but now it’s like Anbernic RG556 analog sticks - terrible!"
🤣
hahaha. is normal mistake. I always love your videos by the way. Thanks👍
Im gunna need that wallpaper...
All these amazing devices. Something ten year old me dreamed about and now it's practically commonplace.
I was just telling my gf that. 7 yr old me in 2000 would have LOST it if I saw what's possible in handhelds/phones now.
Thanks to xi jin ping
I was thinking about it as well and it's cool to see people appreciate this insane technological opportunity. Definitely one of the major pluses in being a working adult the fact you can just buy those thingies. As a kid I remember getting this cheap multi game handheld system which was basically a tetris invader+calculator kind of thing, which was tons of fun but I could only dream of a PSX because poor haha...
I remember the days even a few can afford “PC”could run these games
it's crazy isn't it. Would have gone mad for any of these as a kid. I'm glad people who don't have money can have access to so much gaming.
I've gained 10 lbs since I started watching this channel with all these snacks and drinks!
Oh no
i really want chick-fil-a
😂
Greatest comment. Thats why i listen while I'm out running.
Lol don't drink your calories
That brief clip of NHL Hitz took me way back, I couldn't get enough of that series as a kid.
I am proud to say.. this is my favorite handheld ever! The ergonomic on this is unreal
Can you tell how is your experience with it? I’m indecisive about getting it.
@@ericestradax the experience is awesome.
It will be my favorite handheld for a long time. Powerwise, it is about 9/10. If you want perfect PS2, probably gof9r Odin 2. Else, this is the device!
Aliexpress summer sale starts tomorrow. Im all set for picking up a $150-200 handheld. I think im gonna go with this over the RP4. Im surprised but i just love this screen.
What is the oldest console that you can play on this handheld? Appreciate an answer because the Atari2600 is where I got my start.
What about sticks that everyone say that are not so good??
Russ, I stumbled upon the whole retro handheld space, maybe a couple of weeks ago? In that time I have been consuming your content nonstop, I have been completely enamoured with the idea of buying a handheld and playing games from my childhood and tinkering about with the software and roms, etc. I don't know how many hours I have spent in the last couple of weeks, haha. It's crazy, on one day I went from having no idea what any of this is, to obsessing and keeping up with every new product review and now having a decent knowledge of all the brands, models, what to expect, what to look out for, eagerly awaiting new releases and constantly adding handhelds to my baskets on every single website hahaha. Thank you for everything, still haven't decided what my first device will be! RG556 is in the running though :)
Maybe wait until November before you buy. There'll be new ones out by then, from all the companies.... as soon as you buy one a better one will come out. Don't rush your decision. :)
@@jinstinky501 I hear you! November seems far away though haha. But yeah I am torn. I was thinking of maybe getting a budget device like the RG35XX-H to hold me over until new devices come out and decide to spend more on a much better one but then I am thinking that a budget device may just scratch the itch for a moment and I'll crave something more powerful even more. So no clue where to start and which would be the optimal route: get a budget device now, see how I like everything and wait until new devices launch to choose my next one, or go straight for a more premium device to avoid ending up eventually at the same place (and having spent more if I buy a budget one first). Decisions, decisions, hahaha.
Welcome and have fun kid!
@@jinstinky501 Right? I've been in this space since it started years ago and the last 5 years have been insane with new units coming out monthly. Anytime is a good time to jump in and have fun!
Welcome to the world of every 2 week buying a new handheld, friendly tip stack up on SD cards
This was the review I was waiting for. Thank you!
Thank you for including Dynasty Warriors! That was probably the game series I played the most on PS2 and I would not mind getting a handheld that can get be back into it. As always, awesome review, Russ. Keep up the great work!
Literally why I bought mine 😂 It plays them very well.
Excellent review, Russ!
Because of your videos, I have bought three different devices. They’re very well produced and I enjoy them. Thank you from someone that didn’t know Chinese devices existed last year.
any recommendations?
I went ahead and bought the 556 just earlier this morning and I’m so excited for it to arrive! I loved the ergonomics of it right away and that screen is really stellar too, and seeing it in person is gonna be even better. I do already have a Retroid Pocket 4 Pro though, admittedly, but I absolutely love it and will balance using it and the 556 whenever possible
Many thanks for this detailed review Russ, it went a long way in helping me decide to pick one up!
How do you like it so far?
You validated my preorder. This should hold me til Odin 3 (or SD3 equivalent). Thanks Russ, love the channel.
Many thanks for your reviews on this. I really find your thoughts and feedback as validation for my own thoughts and feelings so yeah I wanted to say thanks for all the effort you put in. It's definitely appreciated
Thanks for this review! Really helps!
thank you for including SSX 3. I love that game and it was great to see it included.
Its the Goat🎉
Screen and the grips have sold this for me. Looking forwards to tinkering when mine arrives! :D
Thank you for pointing out the more minute detail oriented things that a lot of us don’t generally think about. You do such an excellent job, sir! Thank you again!
One thing worth noting is that the analog sticks behaving that way is a software issue rather than the hardware itself. As reference those are the same sticks that the RG505 uses and they too feel like they are very prone to registering input on the cardinal directions rather than you being able to smoothly draw a circle with them. This goes away on the RG505 the second you install Gamma OS with the sticks becoming much smoother and accurate. Playing something like Mario 64 on the emulator or even Vampire Survivors from the Play Store allow you to notice the sheer difference in input response smoothness. It is like night and day so hopefully Anbernic can work that issue on their own software at some point because the sticks are actually pretty good.
Thanks for saying this as the main thing keeping me from selling my RP4Pro and switching to this was the analog sticks. Now I may have to rethink that.
@@Diosky27 The RP4 Pro is more powerful, so if power is what you want, keep the RP4 Pro.
Unfortunately GammaOS isn't available for this device?
@@serpserpserp Not yet.
6 months later is it available for this device?
I see Russ, I grab a snack and drink!
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
Same AF.
Been watching Russ so long, I've already grabbed a snack and drink before I start.
My snack pantry is gone now 😅
Why?! A snack and drink, lol! What are you, 8 or something?
I just ordered me on,because you really helped me,with this system and thank you every much
The first Anbernic device since the 351 era that I'm seriously considering
Just bought this can’t wait to get it and try it out
the blue version looks incredible.. sold!!!
cap
Excellent review/comparison Russ. So glad you mention and focus more on the thumb sticks. So many devices have been using these Switch sticks for a while now and I hate them with a passion. Think I used them for two days when I got my Switch years ago and never touch them again, thank god for Amazon fast delivery. I am rocking an Odin 2 right now and it's really a fantastic system but not really pocketable and the dpad is on the wrong location for me. I grew up with the PlayStation and fighting games so dpad is everything, thus my RP4 Pro is on its way with the grip.
Getting rid of that Odin 2 by chance? Haha
too bad about the rp4 pro screen tho. deal breaker for us odin 2 owners... i can't go back to shitty lcd screens. i just refuse.
That screen is beautiful
And here's me two weeks in enjoying my RG35XXH and this beast comes out. To be fair I've been out of the emulation handheld world since the GP2X sputtered out.
I was waiting anxious for this video and now, i definitely will buy a rg556
For folks cross shopping this vs RP4/4pro, add another $15 to the Retroid for the snap on grip if you want similar comfort to the 556.
Ergonomics are important but there’s shockingly few people in this comments section talking about the screen. OLED is such a massive bonus, infinitely better contrast than LED or LCD displays, crt like response times making it great for retro gaming, and better color accuracy too.
My perfect device is a Retroid Pocket 4 Pro with an AMOLED display, basically a true successor to the PS Vita which I adored.
@@Diosky27why do you keep saying this, it has 128Gb of internal storage? From Anbernic's website:
Storage
128G UFS2.2
@@Diosky27 I’m not sure what this means. The RG556 has 128GB internal storage and 8GB RAM, same as the RP4 Pro…
@@RetroGameCorps you're right, I stand corrected. When I checked out the Alibaba link I didn't see any storage listed, but looking at their website it's there 🤦♂️
@@Kyle-yn5hyRP5 is like an odin with AMOLED AND 5.5” display so its basically a way better RG556
I'd been waiting so long to get this final review. Well not that long!
I'm glad to hear plenty of positives about the rg556. As much as I like the aesthetics of the pocket 4, this screen just wins it hands down. Thank you!
I dove into the retro handheld world with the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro (RP4P) and I am in love with it. That being said, your opinion of the screen size and ergonomics comparison is spot on. After about two months of use, the RP4P screen size is just a tad too small for my perfect screen (although it is hardly a deal breaker and the upscale resolution helps with this) and I often find myself adjusting my grip once or twice on the RP4P to experiment with comfortability, depending on what I'm playing. Long story short, this review is an excellent display of the RG556. In my humble opinion, if you are ok with a slightly smaller screen and more processing power, the RP4P is your sub $200 handheld. If you prefer more perfectly comfortable grips and a larger screen size, go with the RG556. All hail the Odyn 2, which I will hopefully own one day haha.
Thank you for this review Russ, now I confirm that I'll go with RG556
THANK YOU so much for that android setup guide and this great review vid, this is my 1st android game handheld and you helped me out so much! GRATITIDE!
its time for my rg351p to retire, the rg556 looks awesome!
Nah my RG351P will stay my ultimate GBA. It's great you found something for you tho.
damn i miss my 351p first device back in 2009 i got
@@Pridetoons I wish another company could get a hold of the screens the KT-R1 uses. I like the RG351P but I want a better 3:2 screen.
@@Neon_PlasmaWe NEED 4" 3:2 Handhelds!
@@CHICKENmcNUGGIESMydudeanbernic rg351p in 2009??
This is a really great review, very detailed. You broke down just about everything on this Device
We need an Odin 2 with the same screen as the RG556, if it's in that device it cannot be that expensive!
that would be the perfect handheld imho
Wait 3 or 4 month.... Every week is a nu handheld release... Dumb but yea
If there was a 6-inch 16:9 OLED screen that they could source, Ayaneo would've used that for their Pocket S.
Definitely the Odin 3 would be just that. They should be careful though for that price not to swim in Steam Deck/Ally territory.
The Odin 2 screen already have very good colors, contrast etc, among the best for a ips panel, response time is Abit lacking but not enough of a concern for most people.
Not worth it giving up the 6 inch to have this 5.5 OLED in my opinion.
Need either a equivalent 6 inch OLED or a higher quality OLED (in areas such as colors/brightness/HDR/VRR) to be worth accepting the 15-20% downsize from 6 inch-> 5.5 inch.
I just ordered the blue one. Cannot wait
Any ps1 survival horror games?
@@jacobnelson6042 you can download them yourself yes
Came to hit the thumbs up and hit save to watch later since i'm still at work
🔥 anbernic is coming along!
I love how competition between Anbernic and Retroid is resulting in killer products. I can see the successor to the RG556 being perfect and probably irresistible if they improve the sticks to be on part with the RP4, plastic quality and Wi-Fi 6 for game streaming and get a bump in performance.
The larger screen seems amazing. I definitely feel cramped playing on my RG353P and RP3+ screens. Been playing games on my iPad mini lately to have a larger screen actually. My eyes would be much happier with the 5.5 inch AMOLED screen on the RG556 for portable handheld use.
It's always the next one :D
Nothing is perfect. The best you can hope for it close to or near perfection. Which is why this device is a great purchase. Will they get better and better? Sure but this one plays pretty much everything you could need up to PS2 and GC with some settings tweaks
@@tynao2029I already have the RG353P and RP3+ to hold me over to play games on. I'm not in a rush to get another imperfect device. I can easily wait for something that checks off more boxes, likely within the next round of devices in the next year.
@@dtape Every device is imperfect, and always will be. No perfect devices.
Whole half a year behind this, but that ok computer shirt is hyper fresh. Everything in its right place is a favortie song of mine
I went with blue and turned off the leds. Sticks are next + Gamma!
🍻
Russ thank you for the hard work on the reviews. It is interesting to see your personal stock in Retroid drop in value - from the RP4Pro anticipation vid to the post-launch market reality - You were hyped man! Like a spring fling, but the Odin 2 was waiting for you at home all along. Haha. There will always be a better one coming down the line, and I can imagine a Retroid 5 OLED ErgoGrip and/or Ayn Odin 3 Pocket that is a perfect match for you.
Yeah....eventually this channel will become irrelevant once these devices get even more perfected and cheaper.
@@ryecatcher25 Definitely not irrelevant! But perhaps focused more on the tuning of the 40+ years worth of content we can play on these things. (Which Russ also does a great job of highlighting already… SMB widescreen!)
I was mostly just surprised how quickly the 4pro took a backseat.
So.... Nice review on this thing particularly on the serface materials testing.
I curl up with my RG556 the way people curl up with a good book. It really is that insanely enjoyable to play.
Finally, someone played Onimusha Dawn of Dreams. Thank you! *single tear of joy*
The OLED just kind of trumps everything else... Like the SD, I had the LCD version and was debating about "upgrading" to the Legion Go or the Ally, but then the SD OLED launched and the debate was over instantly. Ok, the performance is a little behind, but the leap in image quality is enormous.
That is literally the ONLY metric the RG556 beats the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro on. Everything else with the RG556 handheld screams mediocrity. The poor choice of plastics, the absolute crap analog sticks, the horrid Dpad (which from Anbernic is inexcusable), LED distraction lighting, only two colour ways and finally, the craptastic frontend. Sounds like a sure winner.
@@STR82DVDYou obviously weren’t watching Russ’ review. The ergonomics and the battery life are also very clear winners here over the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro. I think this one is a win overall for Anbernic, and I say that as a proud owner of the 4 Pro.
Credit where credit is due, Anbernic really upped their game with this device.
@@williamegan6756 I watched. That's Russ:s opinion, it's not gospel kid. Attach the ergonomic grip available from Retroid and the ergonomic advantage vanishes. Battery life, smattery life, the delta between the two units is negligible.
@@STR82DVDbro thinks his opinion is objective fact
I have both the SD and the LEGO, and the LEGO has the best screen of any handheld, hands down. The deck's screen is a step up from LCD, and is great in it's own right, but it's really no contest with the LEGO screen. The LEGO has many other flaws though, like atrocious battery life.
10:05 that SMW Wide-screen patch looks amazing
I want to buy one of these handheld but EVERY other month a new comes out.. better and better.
Revisiting this because I am seriously considering the upcoming RG Cube. Both seems to have the same configuration. Can't wait to see the Cube in this channel.
Same! the cube looks so interesting! Just saw the first impression video
it only took your "first look" for me to order one
didn't want an Odin 2 doesn't really do anything my steamdeck oled doesn't already IMO, no oled is a bummer
but the rg556 slots right in between the Steamdeck Oled and my rg35xx
The best part is the AMOLED will be great for outside use and travel. Also your less likely to deal with burn-in issues. 😁
This is the perfect device I’ve been waiting for but the sticks are killing me. I think I need to wait for one more version once that’s sorted
Would you make a starter list of your favourite games for each platform someday and append it to your startee guides?
Good idea
Second this!
Russ, what your updated thoughts on this device?
Noo how did I miss this?! I pulled the trigger on the RP-4 Pro the other day, but this straight up looks better.
Looking forward to the RG Cube
The stick issue is kind of a dealbreaker for me. Do you think you could replace them or is it a software issue?
You'd have to replace them. Those sticks just tilt and don't actually move from their center point, hence the flicky feeling. True analog sticks move with your thumb (Retroid Pocket 2S / 4 sticks). When Retroid dropped their latest devices with those new sticks I can't ever personally go back to those Switch style ones.
A software update could definitely fix their responsiveness, we saw similar fixes with GammaOS on the RG505 and RG405M.
@@RetroGameCorps still no fix update?
Now that i have owned both i must agree. Dsspite the performance difference the screen and ergonomics on the rg556 make it better. The rp5 and rp mini are both preordered. Now the screens will be similar but now with better performance❤
I wonder how hard it would be to upgrade the sticks if available?
It would've been amazing if they used rp4's analogs
very informative, thanks !!
I pre-ordered this device 2 weeks ago knowing it was a slapper 🤙
Huh! Stick on top and STILL looks nice and comfy for D-pad usage. Currently watching without sound so can't tell; will watch this properly later but this looks good.
Midnight club 3 is such a hidden gem 🤩
Highly considering getting one of these. Is there a full game listing somewhere?
Is the stick cardinality snapping a software issue (ie one that Anbernic (hah!) could sort out, or GammaOS could address)? Not a deal breaker for me, but it would be nice to have an option of switching snapping on and off. Some games, like Robotron, could benefit from the snapping, others not so much.
I'm pretty sure GammaOS will fix the Cardinal Snapping issue. GammaSqueeze already has a RG556 Dev unit.
Russ, I wonder how many thousands of people you have helped get into this world, me for sure A LOT. I think just as we help developers, you should also be supported as what you do is simply amazing. Thank you 🙏.
Now one question to you or anybody, I’m trying to run dragon quest 8, but I don’t know where to find the adjustments you say, I swear I looked almost everywhere I guess.
Found a whoopsie, you have Link's Awakening as the title for Wind Waker content. :)
Thanks for the review
Does it come preloaded or not?????
2nd
I see this question being asked on almost all retro handheld videos, the games come preloaded on the sd cards. If you purchase the system only then chances are there are no games. If you purchase the system with the sd card then they are usually preloaded with the games.
Thanks Russ, I ordered a blue one for my wife. I got myself an Odin 3 weeks to a month ago. Keep being awesome!
Odin 3 ?
damn, dude's living in 2025
He said Odion. 3 weeks to a month ago. Not odin 3 do take note @@nefariou5
@@nefariou5 and that's the importance of a comma
Votre commande est arrivée ?
Got the RP4 Pro before Anbernic released the RG556, so I didn't really have to think about it. Now that I have it, I do wish it was more comfortable to play, but the fact that the sticks work so well makes it good enough that the portability overtakes the issues with comfort. It's a very portable device and the 720p screen, while small, is serviceable because of that size. Highly recommend it if you don't mind the lack of grips. (I ordered the grip accessory after, so I'm waiting to find out if that's a night/day improvement.
What grip accessory did you add
Nice video . Which controller are you using since minute 23 ? Looks fine.
This looks like a good handheld but im leaning towards the ayn odin 2
Personally if you had to buy one either buy the Odin 2 or wait for the Odin 3.
Definitely get the Odin 2. It does literally everything with no need to make a million tweaks to get anything to work and run at full speed.
Odin 2 is great, no doubt, unless you care about pocketebility, then it's RP 4 Pro. Don't really care for Ambernic or Powkiddy's junks.
If you don't mind the price premium, the Odin 2 is definitely the way to go. If it'll run on Android at all, it'll run on the Odin 2.
what is the game he is playing at approx 21:50?
LEDs are so stupid in these handhelds anyway. Such a waste of time. Doubley useless with a transparent case.
Agreed. The LED's are a total gimmick that only serves as a distraction. The RG556 is a nice device but I'm all in on the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro right now. With the ergonomic grip on the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro, there are just too many positives over the RG556 to be ignored.
I hate LEDs in handhelds so much. 99% of my handheld usage is at night, in bed, while my wife is trying to sleep 😅
The biggest feature I'd like to see is lower minimum screen brightness.
I can't even use the R36s in bed because of how bright the front facing blue led indicator is. It's brighter than the screen. (Not to mention the issue where plugging in headphones doesn't stop the speakers from making sound...)
It's very obnoxious.
Can't you switch them off?
@@Sharp931 I believe you can actually switch them off.
Sure u can!
Many but not all users want plug and play. I work in Financial Transformation but am not a Dev Techie. With these devices I want plug and play, and then download what I want through the UI/UX interface. I guarantee that if anyone in that comfort zone does what you suggest they will ruin their device. The tech orientated because they are geeks have no social life so have the time to fix it. Great video though and thank you for helping me discover.
i swear, every anbernic device looks seems to be lacking in one small area.
and what is that?
❤❤❤Thank you❤❤❤ from Philippines with ❤
Hot take but i despise lights on analog sticks, it looks so damn tacky.
I just turn them off on my Odin 2 most of the time. They're distracting.
That screen is so nice. Really hoping odin 3 will have an oled screen when it eventually happens.
Amen 🙏
yep once that drops ill upgrade from this :)
thanks for the demo and info, have a great day
Hey Russ! Great review and very informative as always! I have an off topic question if you don’t mind sharing. What shorts are you wearing in your pocketability test? I’ve actually been looking for some just like that, and it would be a bonus knowing they’d fit some of my recent handheld device purchases 😅. Thanks!
Hi, those shorts are called Quicksilver amphibian shorts, they’re older but I think they are still sold by the company.
The 2 technical complaints I have is the convex sticks and the bottom facing speakers. Making the sticks concave and the audio front facing would make it an excellent device.
I replay the intro song at least 5 times before actually watching the video 😂😂
I preordered the RP4 Pro the day it went live. I don’t regret it at all but I do see how much better it could be if the screen was upgraded. Looks like Anbernic did really well on this one!
you regret that rp4 pro preorder....
Maybe Anbernic will throw a RG557 at us next year with the D1100 and the better Ayn/Retroid sticks and the rest the same
New to Handhelds, love the content! I pre-ordered the RG556 but I don’t know if I’ll be able to do much updates to it, since I only have a Mac. But man do I wish I could so the software would look clean like yours!
Perfect timing... finally getting one of these. Do I get it directly from anbernic or from ali express?
Been tossing up these two for my new device. Definitely leaning towards the 556 because of the AMOLED screen. It could be a little more powerful but tbh up to PS2 is just fine, There are bigger more powerful handhelds for that.
So many handheld do you have:
This guy: yea man.
As much as I love my year-old RG353M, I must admit I long for the release of an RG556M.
Metal. I love metal. Give me metal.
Onimusha dawn of dreams is my favorite game man!! Thank you for showing that it works 🎉🎉
Can you use two Bluetooth controllers on the RG556?
Can you start adding Video out to your comparison charts? It’s a very important feature for those of us using AR glasses like the XReals
Hopefully this gets Gamma OS in the future as well, that will really seal the deal on this device.
Seems decent, despite its flaws. If I didn't have an Odin and was just getting into handheld emulation, I would definitely consider this one.
I like it, but the Odin 2 does it all
@@ralex3697 true. I like that we have a few different levels of price/performance when it comes to these handhelds though.
Hey Russ, thanks for the great video as always. The comparisons we often make are to the latest and greatest, but I realized the original Odin 1 and Odin Lite are now in a similar price range, and could be picked up second hand for cheaper as well. How do you feel this compares to the Odin 1 and Odin Lite in terms of controls/comfort as well ss performance? Thanks!
i wish you would show more 3ds testing, usually these machines will always run the consoles up to ps2/gamecube and even switch relatively well, but 3ds is always in question, wish you would show that testing more
The best review i found
Hey Russ, what's that background/desktop? It's pretty sweet!
I think the transparent model is more fitting for a retro console. Takes us back to the fun colored n64s and Game boys of the time
Critique: Controls. I'd like to know how the buttons sound, are they clicky or smooth, will it be annoying to those nearby? Also does the d pad fireball and dragon punch well.... Good review and much appreciated.