AYANEO is continuing to foray into the ‘retro’ gaming handheld market with its announcement of the Pocket Micro Classic — a variation of the base Pocket Micro that released back in 2024.
Inspired by the legendary Game Boy Micro, this new version strips away the joysticks found on the standard Pocket Micro, opting instead for a purely D-pad and button-focused design to create a more ‘true’ feeling for Game Boy titles, and letting you actually fit it into your pocket.
While AYANEO is known for its expensive handhelds, the Pocket Micro Classic is set to be its most affordable option yet, offering strong emulation capabilities at a more accessible price point, while still maintaining a sleek design that feels premium in the hands.
AYANEO Pocket Micro Classic: Features & Specs
Despite its budget-friendly approach, the Pocket Micro Classic still packs impressive hardware for a device of its size.
Below is a breakdown of its key features:
- Display: 3.5” IPS touchscreen with a resolution of 960×640, providing sharp visuals for retro gaming.
- Chipset: Powered by a MediaTek Helio G99, delivering smooth emulation for various handheld titles.
- Memory & Storage: Available in two configurations—6GB RAM / 128GB storage and 8GB RAM / 256GB storage.
- Battery: A 5000mAh battery, ensuring solid playtime for gaming sessions.
- Controls: D-pad + ABXY button layout, with inline shoulder and trigger buttons, closely mimicking classic handheld consoles.
- Connectivity: Supports Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, USB-C charging, and includes a microSD slot for expanded storage.
- Colors: Available in Magic Black, Retro Gray, and Retro Gold, each paying homage to vintage gaming aesthetics.
With these specs, the Pocket Micro Classic is optimized for Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, as well as some other retro console emulation, making it an appealing choice for those wanting a modern way to relive classic games.
AYANEO Pocket Micro Classic: Pricing & Release Date
One of the biggest selling points of the Pocket Micro Classic is its affordable price in comparison to the company’s other devices.
AYANEO has positioned this as its lowest-priced handheld yet, with the following pricing structure:
- $179 for the 6GB RAM / 128GB storage model.
- $209 for the 8GB RAM / 256GB storage model.
These prices make the Pocket Micro Classic a compelling alternative to pricier AYANEO devices, offering an affordable way to experience classic gaming on the go.
AYANEO has confirmed that shipping for the Pocket Micro Classic will begin in April 2025, with pre-orders expected to open soon, so keep an eye out to ensure you get one before it sells out.
All in all, the AYANEO Pocket Micro Classic is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the retro handheld gaming scene, offering affordable pricing, a sleek, nostalgia-driven design, and solid performance for retro game emulation.
By removing joysticks and streamlining the controls, AYANEO is catering directly to you handheld gaming purists who want an experience as close to the Game Boy Micro as possible.
