We have some thrilling information out of the Anbernic camp immediately: It’s now official… Anbernic is releasing the RG353M, a steel shell model of their RG353P mannequin.

The steel shell variant comes sizzling on the heels of the discharge of the brand new RG353V mannequin (vertical).

You know I like my vertical fashions and have actually begged them for a steel shell variant.

Baby steps, I assume…

In my very own private opinion (the rationale y’all are right here): The two entries within the RG353 line are the one positives in Anbernic’s 2022 console lineup.

To see them maintain that line going is a superb transfer in the precise path for them. It is a return to them doing what they do greatest.

Previous RG353 Models

We cherished the RG353P. It felt like an SNES controller on steroids, and was an ideal 4:3 retro gaming console.

The 3.5” display is an ideal dimension for cell gaming and the upgraded RK3566 chipset will provide you with unimaginable efficiency for all the recreation consoles you’d be enjoying on these sorts of units.

Absolutely good for taking part in any one of many 35 Best SNES Games Of All Time.

And we noticed them proceed many of those qualities within the newest vertical mannequin, the RG353V.

As the primary fan of the RG351V, you already know I used to be actually hitting refresh till the pre-order was opened up and I may get my order in for one.

And, curiously, these two RG353 fashions are so extremely totally different of their exterior designs. Yet, these have been the 2 consoles that appeared to win over retro gaming followers this yr.

So why would Anbernic or avid gamers return to the RG353?

The New RG353M

Obviously, the brand new RG353M mannequin will characteristic a steel shell… one thing now we have been dying for from Anbernic consoles.

It has been absent from their lineup because the earlier RG351MP mannequin, which continues to be the shining examples of Anbernic at their greatest.

And talking of the RG351MP… the brand new RG353M is a return to that basic Anbernic aesthetic additionally featured within the 351 and 350 line.

Those beautiful sharp strains and clear edges that Anbernic had grow to be recognized for.

The RG353P was a pleasant stroll down retro lane… and the RG353V was a terrific providing within the vertical console world, one thing I urge for.

But it’s this basic Anbernic design that made them the most effective on the retro console scene.

Comparing the RG353M to the RG351MP

Looking on the RG351MP and the brand new RG353M facet by facet, they’re virtually equivalent. But a eager eye will spot some vital enhancements.

Of course, it’ll characteristic a 3.5 inch display, which shall be touchscreen for Android.. and it drops the Anbernic brand, one thing individuals have complained about previously.

And it’ll characteristic the RK3566 chipset, which is the brand new customary for these sorts of inexpensive retro emulators.

This chipset boosts PS1, Dreamcast, PSP, N64 and Nintendo DS recreation play. Something that was succesful on the earlier RG3326 fashions, however they struggled at occasions.

The RG353M additionally encompasses a new analogue stick that seems to be a bit shorter. This will increase the pocketability of the brand new machine.

Time will inform how the efficiency of those new sticks holds up in comparison with the earlier ones. But they do look good.

Another change to the brand new RG353M is the brand new triggers, which was additionally noticed on the upcoming RG505.

They are just like the horizontal stacked triggers that have been featured on the RG351 line. But the L2 and R2 are raised, and the buttons are actually straight subsequent to eachother.

Anbernic’s triggers have all the time been a degree of competition, however I’m a fan of the triggers on the RG351 units. Seeing them revisit these with a slight enchancment is nice for me.

The subsequent, and maybe biggest enchancment we’ll see within the new RG353M… HDMI out! Yes, like the brand new RG353V… it is possible for you to to attach this console on to a tv or monitor by an HDMI cable. Which is a characteristic sorely missed within the RG351 line.

Some apparent stuff… it ought to twin boot in Linux or Android, it’ll have a touchscreen for Android stuff, and it ought to have WIFI and Bluetooth.

And a tiny element I seen is the location of a brand new perform button on the highest of the machine.

We haven’t seen the facility button or quantity buttons, however we will assume they are going to be very similar to their latest units (energy and reset on the precise, quantity on the left).

Just a few individuals have commented on the colour of the leaked pictures. This new steel shell seems to be a purple shade. Which is fairly thrilling.

One of probably the most thrilling components a few new console launch is to see what colorways they may supply. The RG353V had some superior choices, together with a clear purple. So I assume Anbernic has been loving their purple these days.

Here’s are greatest guess for the precise specifics for the RG353M:

RG353M Specifications (Anticipated)

• 3.5 inch touchscreen
• RK3566 chipset
• 2GB RAM
• Dual Analogue Sticks
• Dual-Boot OS (Linux/Android)
• HDMI Out
• WIFI and Bluetooth
• 3200-3500 MAH Battery (Appx. 6 hours)
• Stereo Speakers

With the brand new RG353V coming in at $130 and the earlier RG353P at round $115… we anticipate the upgrades and the brand new steel shell placing this new console proper round $150.

October 17, 2022 Leak Sources

I first heard phrase in regards to the RG353M from @RKezins (who’s all the time on high of these items). And official affirmation from Anbernic was shared by @RetroHandhelds. Source of the leaked photographs apparently got here from NateTheNice on Discord.

As per normal… we’ll replace as quickly as extra information turns into accessible. Which, we anticipate will begin leaking quick.

Anthony has been a online game lover ever since he can bear in mind. He turned a fulltime nomad in 2018, residing all through most of Asia. He centered his ardour in retro gaming and started making a recreation for the Game Boy Color whereas residing in Nara, Japan throughout the 2020 pandemic. He is now in Chiang Mai, Thailand, the place he spends most of his time gaming, happening lengthy walks and assembly as many stray canine as doable.