Anbernic RG DS: A Budget-Friendly Nintendo DS Revival Under $100

Anbernic has officially unveiled its latest retro gaming handheld, the RG DS, marking the company’s ambitious entry into the dual-screen handheld market. After successfully recreating numerous Game Boy iterations, the Chinese manufacturer is now setting its sights on the Nintendo DS era with a device that promises to deliver classic gaming experiences at a fraction of the original console’s cost[4].

An Affordable Alternative to Classic Nintendo DS Gaming

The Anbernic RG DS will retail for less than $100, positioning it as a compelling budget option for retro gaming enthusiasts[4]. This price point undercuts the original Nintendo DS’s launch MSRP of $149.99, making it an attractive proposition for gamers seeking nostalgia without breaking the bank[4]. The sub-$100 pricing strategy aligns perfectly with Anbernic’s established reputation for delivering affordable recreations of iconic gaming hardware[3].

For perspective, the RG DS will compete against more premium alternatives like the Ayn Thor, which starts at $250, giving budget-conscious gamers a significantly more accessible entry point into dual-screen handheld gaming[4].

Design Features and Hardware Specifications

While Anbernic has remained tight-lipped about detailed specifications, the teaser reveal showcased several notable design elements that hint at the device’s capabilities. The RG DS will launch in four distinctive colorways: black/red, teal, white, and a transparent variant that pays homage to the classic translucent gaming hardware aesthetic[4].

Display and Form Factor

The handheld features dual screens with a 4:3 aspect ratio, closely mimicking the original Nintendo DS design and ensuring proper compatibility with DS titles[3]. Both the top and bottom screens appear to match in size, following the DS Lite and DSi design philosophy rather than the original DS’s asymmetric screen configuration[13].

Controls and Connectivity

The RG DS comes equipped with modern gaming conveniences including dual analog sticks and four shoulder buttons, enhancing gameplay options beyond what the original DS offered[3]. Additional features include stereo speakers for immersive audio, a centrally positioned microphone essential for DS titles that utilized voice commands, and a 3.5mm headphone jack positioned on the front of the device[3].

Connectivity options feature two USB-C ports for charging and data transfer, along with a microSD card slot for memory expansion, ensuring users can maintain extensive game libraries[3].

Market Position and Competition

Anbernic’s entry into the dual-screen handheld market represents a strategic expansion of their product portfolio beyond single-screen Game Boy clones. The company has hinted at incorporating a new chip into the RG DS, though specific processor details remain undisclosed[4]. Given the budget-friendly price point, expectations suggest the device will prioritize classic Nintendo DS emulation over running more demanding modern titles[3].

The RG DS follows Anbernic’s pattern of releasing devices shortly after initial teaser videos, suggesting availability could come within weeks of the announcement[4]. This rapid release schedule has become a hallmark of the company’s product launch strategy.

Availability Considerations

Potential buyers should note that Anbernic previously paused shipments from its Chinese warehouses to US customers following tariff changes in April 2025, temporarily limiting American buyers to US stock[4]. While this notice has since been removed from the company’s website, recent announcements of additional retaliatory tariffs on Chinese goods could impact future availability and pricing for US consumers[4].

Looking Ahead

The Anbernic RG DS represents an exciting development for retro gaming enthusiasts who’ve been waiting for an affordable way to revisit the extensive Nintendo DS library. While the device clearly targets casual gamers and daily commuters rather than hardcore enthusiasts seeking premium performance, its accessible price point opens up dual-screen handheld gaming to a broader audience[3].

As Anbernic prepares to launch the RG DS, the device stands as testament to the enduring appeal of classic gaming hardware and the growing market for affordable retro gaming solutions. Whether you’re looking to replay childhood favorites or discover DS classics for the first time, the RG DS promises to deliver that experience without the premium price tag typically associated with specialty gaming hardware.

Sources:

Photo by Pexels on Pixabay