New reports indicate that Anbernic may be preparing to expand its lineup of retro-inspired handhelds with devices modeled after classic Nintendo systems. According to information shared on the Chinese social platform QQ, the company is reportedly developing two new handheld consoles that take design inspiration from the Nintendo 2DS and Nintendo 3DS.
While these devices have not been officially announced, the leaks suggest that Anbernic is continuing its strategy of modernizing legacy gaming hardware concepts. If accurate, these upcoming handhelds could combine nostalgic design with updated performance and features aimed at today’s players.
A Modern Take on the Nintendo 2DS Design
One of the rumored devices is reportedly called the RG 2DS, a handheld that closely mirrors the original Nintendo 2DS in form and functionality. The original 2DS, released in 2013 as part of the 3DS family, was known for its flat, non-folding design and dual-screen layout.
The leaked information suggests that Anbernic’s version will retain this basic structure while significantly upgrading the hardware. The RG 2DS is said to feature a custom display setup with a 1600 × 900 primary screen and a 400 × 240 secondary screen. This represents a major jump in resolution compared to the original hardware, offering sharper visuals and improved clarity.
In addition to display improvements, the device is expected to include modern features such as a USB-C port, enhanced speakers, a more powerful processor, and a larger battery. It may also run on Android or Linux, giving users greater flexibility in how they use the system.
Alongside the RG 2DS, reports also point to a second device known as the RG 3DS. This model is expected to take inspiration from the Nintendo 3DS, including its iconic clamshell design and dual-screen setup.
According to the leak, the RG 3DS will feature a custom main display with a 5:3 aspect ratio and a 1600 × 900 resolution, paired with a secondary screen at 400 × 240. While these specifications suggest a significant upgrade over the original hardware, one major feature will reportedly be absent.
Unlike the Nintendo 3DS, the RG 3DS is not expected to include glasses-free 3D functionality. This omission may be a deliberate choice, as the feature was often considered a novelty rather than a necessity by many players. There is also no confirmed information on whether the device will include cameras, another signature feature of the original 3DS.
Focus on Performance and Modern Features
Both rumored devices appear to prioritize performance improvements over exact feature replication. Reports suggest upgrades in key areas such as processing power, RAM, storage, and battery life, which would make them far more capable than their Nintendo counterparts.
This approach aligns with Anbernic’s recent product strategy. The company has already released several handhelds inspired by older gaming systems, including devices influenced by the PlayStation Vita. These products typically combine retro aesthetics with modern hardware, appealing to enthusiasts who want a balance of nostalgia and functionality.
The inclusion of Android or Linux operating systems also hints at broader use cases, including emulation and customizable gaming experiences. This flexibility could make the devices attractive to a wide range of users beyond traditional handheld gamers.
