A "Steam Deck" for RPG-Loving Cheapskates Like Me!

In this video, I embark on a journey to discover whether budget-friendly gaming gear can enhance the RPG gaming experience without breaking the bank. Join me as I delve into the world of handheld gaming with the Anbernic RG353M and the GameSir X2, comparing them to the pricier Steam Deck.
👾 What's Inside:
A comprehensive review of the Anbernic RG353M: Discover its emulation capabilities, ergonomic design, and how it stands out in the world of portable gaming devices.
GameSir X2 Showcase: I explore how this unique controller transforms your smartphone into a gaming powerhouse.
Detailed comparisons: See how these devices stack up against the higher-priced Steam Deck in terms of performance, game compatibility, and user experience.
Practical insights: From battery life to portability, I cover all the aspects that matter to RPG enthusiasts.
Whether you're a hardcore RPG fan or just curious about budget gaming gear, this video offers in-depth analysis, practical advice, and a touch of humor to guide your next purchase.
🔗 Helpful Links:
Anbernic RG353M [Affiliate Link] amzn.to/3RTjVBZ
GameSir X2 [Affiliate Link] amzn.to/3RXiFOm
Hip Pouch [Affiliate Link] amzn.to/3NBRwh1
Firmware Guide by Retro Game Corps: • ArkOS Starter Guide (f...
SuperDerek on Twitch: / superderekrpgs
📌 Remember: This is not a sponsored video. All opinions and reviews are based on my personal experience and research.
Timestamps:
0:00 Can Gear Enhance the RPG Playing Experience?
1:18 The Game Plan
2:10 Why the RG353M?
2:56 Controls overview
4:31 Why 4:3 is better than 16:9 (in this case)
6:44 Pocketability
7:05 I/O and Construction
9:10 Usability & Custom Firmware
10:45 Performance
11:58 Edge-case: N64
13:04 Edge-case: PSP
13:48 Edge-case: Nintendo DS
15:08 Android & Media Playback
17:42 Nintendo 64 Perfected?
19:23 The Gamesir X2 Overview
20:42 PSP Perfection
21:08 Nintendo DS Near-Perfection
21:55 PS4 / PS5 Remote Play
23:05 Who needs a Steam Deck?
#anbernic #review #notsponsored

[@SuperDerek]

Hey all! Missed you all this Christmas so I hope you're having an awesome holiday season. I'm aiming to put out one more RPG review before the new year so keep your eyes peeled for that! In the meantime, I hope you enjoyed this video! Also here are those links I mentioned in the video: Anbernic RG353M [Affiliate Link] amzn.to/3RTjVBZ GameSir X2 [Affiliate Link] amzn.to/3RXiFOm Firmware Guide by Retro Game Corps: kzbin.info/www/bejne/amnRdZafjcmhlck SuperDerek on Twitch: www.twitch.tv/superderekrpgs/

[@Pridetoons]

Great Video Derek!

[@ElAlex214]

Haven't finished the video, but i would've gone with the anbernic 405m or a retroid pocket 3+, which are a bit more expensive, but they are way better in every aspect.

[@benpregent]

Be careful Derek I started with a Miyoo Mini and now I have a ton or Retro handhelds! They're addictive!

[@SuperDerek]

@ElAlex214 This was definitely a consideration, but ultimately the the D-Pad placement and 30% price bump were a turnoff. It also lacks HDMI output which is one more feature I could see myself using for capture purposes. Definitely not a bad choice though!

[@youtubesucksbutts]

@@SuperDerek I've been having a great time with the PowKiddy RGB30 until Retroid drops the Retroid Flip 2 at some point, which is kinda my white whale of retro handhelds. I haven't consoleized it yet, but I've been thinking about it.

[@McSmeecherson]

I never liked RPGs as a kid but now as an adult with little kids I have loved playing all the classics on these retro handhelds. Being able to save/load and FF/rewind at any point is game changer

[@Clos93]

I would still recommend a steam deck just for the abundance of JRPGS that are always on sale on steam! Like with the winter sale right now, you can buy most heavy hitters for less than $10. Being able to play through my RPG's on steam on lunch break at work is pure bliss. And being able to play all those JRPG PS2 games like Xenosaga, Dark Cloud 1-2, Valkyrie Chronicles, Kingdom Hearts 1-2, not to mention all the 3DS JRPGs. After getting the 256gb LCD model last week, its the best $400 I've spent in a while!

[@Rowri88]

The steam deck is my Trails system❤ the only place to get the best version for all the games

[@SuperDerek]

That's a solid point!

[@MrGnuh]

i am still on trails in the sky sc because on windoze i had terrible stutter no matter what. tried anything and everything (including vita emulation >.

[@azuretony]

Major points for showing Nostalgia on DS. Such a hidden gem that one. Great video Derek, and yeah RGC and a few similar channels will take you down rabbit holes you end up not even realizing you went through until you see the bank statement.

[@VisiV]

I spent so much money on cheaper options before I got a Steam Deck. I still play some of them, namely my TrimUI Smart Pro and my Miyoo Mini+, but I’m always just stunned by the quality of life improvement when I boot any of the titles I play on those devices on my big ol’ Steam Deck.

[@socialistprofessor3206]

I'm using my Deck as my pc so it has been an excellent deal for me. That said, I can certainly see how these alternatives would be a great value for those who only want to play RPGs.

[@firebreather4192]

One should also consider the screen of the Steam Deck OLED. Even older titles like GBA games look absolutely stunning on the OLED screen. I play my games primarily on PC, so the Steam Deck is much cheaper like, let's say, double dipping on portable games on Switch. Plus you can continue your save states seamlessly between the devices.

[@SuperDerek]

The new Steam Deck models are really sexy, I can't lie.

[@paulhenri5902]

I love handhelds, the Steam Deck has become my favorite system of all time, I can play some modern games that I love (Dark Souls III, Elden Ring, Nioh, Resident Evil 2 Remake...) and almost every classic system (up to some PS3 games), it feels so good to finally play PS2 games in high quality (especially JRPGs).

[@wasmachensachen6473]

same for me, the tales games work perfect on rpcs3, also theres alot of custom high texture packs for ps2 games to make them even look better on the deck

[@sebastiandk9575]

Got to say this is one of the best videos you've put out in a while. Super nice production, crispy audio and great background music. Keep it up and happy holidays!

[@DuoBeard]

I feel this video was just for me, thank you Derek. I’ve been on the fence of getting one of these for a while. This may be my belated Christmas present 🎁

[@modestyblaise4167]

Nice video. I went down this route and just found the 3.5” screen a bit too small for my aging eyes. The RG405m which is similar to the rg353m solved it for me. It’s the perfect pocketable handheld for RPG. Happy Holidays.

[@quezcatol]

Wish I had this as a kid, my dad had a rule at the summer house- only handheld allowed there and the tv there was hooked up to a NES. This was even in the years I had a n64,ps1 and later ps2,gc and xbox but we wasnt allowed to bring our consoles there. That gameboy with pokemon, zelda, mario etc was fantastic but imagine having this sucker back then?

[@mattweatherly]

Hope you and Amy had a great Christmas! Loved the video, I am kinda keeping my eye on the Ayn Odin 2, its basically both devices in 1 with the Snapdragon 8gen2. But it does check all those boxes.

[@TerraWare]

I like my handheld consoles from Nintendo and Sony but have stayed away from the emulation specific devices and when the original Steam Deck released I held back in hopes they'd release an OLED model. It was worth the wait, I grabbed the glossy 512GB Deck OLED and this things amazing. I'm primarily a PC gamer these days with a big Steam library anyway and with the amount of good deals on Steam, the Deck is an RPG slayer. The recent PC port of Zelda Windwaker for example looks so good. It's also so easy to remote play from my PC as long as its on and the same Steam account logged in both devices you can just stream the game of your PC. I can utilize the power of an RTX 4090 on the Steam Deck which at 1200 x 800 resolution will do Cyberpunk with path tracing at 90hz. I genuinely feel you should grab one at some point. Can't go wrong with the 512Gb and a $40 1TB micro sd card, you will love it. I also believe will be a good investment for your channel since it's a device booming in popularity. I did a side by side of Sea of Stars between the Steam Deck OLED and the Switch OLED. The deep blacks and colors are practically identical except the Deck OLED supports 1000 nits HDR as well at 90hz.

[@milosmisic89]

Nice. I got into andorid handhelds recently as well. I am leaning more towards Retroid Pocket 3 Plus or to wait for 4

[@wizzbangchemistry9706]

I love my Anbernic device :D Probably will upgrade to a version with an HDMI out to replace the Raspberry Pi in my arcade cabinet/retro "console". Also, I wanted to mention that I have that exact Anbernic aluminum case device you had in the video and the left stick on it got stuck pointing left. I ended up replacing it with the vertical form factor one and like it much more.

[@peanutbutterrobot]

you've come a long way dude. everything looks so pro now. not to say that your older videos weren't. you know what I mean

[@mudbrick6083]

Brother this was exactly the cozy video I needed post Christmas.

[@ColeFam]

Thank you for mentioning Mystical Ninja Starring Goemon specifically. I always wanna see how that game performs because i always love to revisit it.

[@cassiedevereaux-smith3890]

I love my Anbernic RG351v (woodgrain). Playing with a Retroid Pocket 3+ now. Was playing Wind Waker on the bus today. These devices are great..

[@thedetectingzonegaming4293]

Ive had my sights set on anbernic products for a while. Looking into the New RG ARC with the Sega Saturn style controllers, which can be paired with a bluetooth controller as well if you really need analogue sticks. I never thought youd put out an emulation video! Thanks for mentioning the limitations with DS and PSP. On the Android side, how does it work with Citra and Dolphin? Really interested in seeing the 3ds performance. As for the controller for Android Phones, i am starting to wish I didnt recycle my old phone. I do have a custom firmware psp, and r4 for the DS, and a custom firmware Vita (which i still believe is the best way to play psp games), and a custom firmware 3DS XL.... basically this condenses so many systems. Seems worth it! I think...

[@JarlBarbossa]

Waiting for an RG Arc with a better chip that can play saturn better

[@TheNinjaMouse]

I am really not in the market for either this or a Steam Deck (I'm just not on the go enough to justify another handheld besides my Switch), but I do enjoy hearing you talk about gear and this video was particularly well-produced. Looked and sounded great. Keep it up!

[@RizalBoon]

I'm really happy with my gamesir Galileo G8. It works wonderfully with my phone's and it's very comfortable. Its a really good feeling playing all the lighter backcatalogs with it.

[@praetorxyn]

Steam OS coupled with EmuDeck alone makes the Steam Deck the best handheld and well worth the entry price IMO. I mainly use the Deck for grinding though, as if I'm outside the house, I'd rather read a book on my tablet, and if I'm at home I'd rather game on my desktop. So I'll use it to grind when I'm watching a movie or something. Have you got a link to that hip pouch? That seems like a neat idea.

[@SuperDerek]

That makes a lot of sense. And sure thing dude, here's the link to the pouch: amzn.to/3NBRwh1 -- I'll add it to the list of links in the description too.

[@DBTGAMER]

Hi I remember in your video you talked about the Xbox 360 not having any RPGSs. I would recommend looking into Blue Dragon and Lost Odyssey. Both of these games were created by the creator of Final Fantasy. Blue Dragon also Akira toriyama helped out with art work. I haven't had a chance to play them myself but I am looking forward to them.

[@Nickhollows]

Is there a size limit for the micro sd card for storage? Any recommendations?

[@SuperDerek]

I'm sure there's a theoretical limit of 1 or 2 TB, but those are pretty crazy expensive. I mostly stick to a 64 GB card, which can hold dozens (80+ or so) of disc-based games, but not full libraries of every disc based game. Entire libraries of cartridge based games though would fit on that easily, no problem.

[@martinomagic9230]

Though, I am not really into portable gaming at all. If I had not already bought a PC that will last me for a while, I think the steam deck is a miracle machine! Not only can it play most modern games, since it runs on linux it runs way better than most windows pcs. But I think the biggest plus of the steam deck is bringing more people into the pc ecosystem. Because then it can realize the dream of not needing to buy 2 to 3 different consoles to play certain games. Talk about saving money, guess what the biggest money saver is! Not having to buy multiple consoles! Plus, you will have your entire library forever, so that solves that problem as well. So again, while I don't care even a little tiny bit about portable gaming, if everyone bought a steam deck it would make the world such a better place for gamers.

[@SuperDerek]

Yep! And if you get one of those portable controllers for your phone, you can access your gaming PC's library with remote play apps like Moonlight also, which keeps you from having to buy a whole other machine in this case. :)

[@hemangchauhan2864]

Small form factor is such a huge plus point

[@altercell_]

The set looks great in this video!

[@RandomTube-is6gt]

The Steam Deck has been a beast for me. Ive been destryoing my ps4 and ps5 backlog playing remote play via chiaki. The quality is day and night from what the portal is doing and the oled even passes HDR! Crazy.

[@JasonwithaJay]

The Miyoo Mini+ is my favorite handheld to play SNES. My hacked Vita is my other favorite handheld for retro gaming.

[@theflyingninja1]

I was just thinking you hadn't put many videos out this year, so i checked and... You've made loads. Hardly any of them showed up in my feed.

[@SuperDerek]

Yeah, I haven't been playing the KZbin shorts game much this year and KZbin has been giving me the cold shoulder as a result, sadly. Hopefully they change their mind because honestly, I can't really stand the format.

[@JarlBarbossa]

Click the subscribe button and learn to use KZbin properly. Nobody shoukd waste time on the "home" page

[@PringleTheOne]

My anbernic has been super useful, and some of em are godlike for the gba games. Great stuff man, steam deck is what im aiming for but a nice cheap alternative that is smal is always a great option. Lowkey tho the vita does prety much what anberics do but good just for the sake of not burning your hands when you play psp games. And i also want to mention the anbernic is getting so much constant support so who knows, when they get ps2 emulation and n64 emulation theyll be god tier.

[@kill_repeat8491]

I've been a long time lover of these cheaper emulation handhelds. They're fantastic for playing the older titles. My Steam Deck is my favorite device, hands down, but it's really pleasant to pick up a smaller and simpler handheld.

[@racx_00]

I haven't invested in any of the emulation style consoles yet, however I have setup my Wii U and 3DS for retro gaming. The Wii U in particular is really good for DS emulation thanks to the gamepad. As for the Steam Deck, I would love one considering I tend to purchase RPGs on PC nowadays but they don't sell them in Australia.

[@BastetFurry]

You should give Portmaster a look, that one lets you install several games that then run natively on the machine. I play Stardew Valley on my ODroid Go Advance with the help of that, works because Stardew was programmed in Dotnet/Mono and that runs perfectly fine on anything that can run Linux. The loading times try my patience at times, but that is on me for using a cheap SD card, the game itself runs great and as expected on a 10 year old SoC.

[@luroc]

i love how my vita is capable of doing nearly everything here including of course psp and well vita. it’s a brilliant emulation device! i do like this handheld and others like the miyoo mini+. great video!

[@ocelott3348]

I use a Steam Deck and do not regret it at all. I also keep a Miyoo Mini+ on me at all times, as the Deck is slightly larger. With these and a Switch, I have all my retro handheld gaming needs met.

[@SuperDerek]

An absolutely solid selection! :)

[@tyronewilson4102]

I appreciate this video comparing the different hardware. As someone who has just purchased the Xbox Series X and PlayStation Portal to go with my other machines it’s kind of hard for me to justify another purchase of another machine. However, I have been eyeing that Steam Deck.

[@DoobieDoctor5000]

Loved this one! Been wanting a Backbone for a while now, but didn't know there was an app to add 3rd party compatibility for the PS4. All of a sudden less expensive options (like the GameSir you got) are on my radar.

[@SuperDerek]

Keep in mind though, there are some extra setup steps for remote play over the Internet. I'd look up more info about the PSPlay app just to make sure it'll work for your needs first. :)

[@DoobieDoctor5000]

@@SuperDerek I appreciate the heads-up. At first glance it looks like it struggles on 5g, but works well on 4g. I would normally play on wifi, but it is good to know for those times I feel extra adventurous. The only time I've ever remote played over mobile internet was when my dog didn't want to go back inside, so I chilled outside with her and experienced a lagfest while trying to play ESO with touch controls.

[@Nintenite]

I am personally a Retroid fanboy, they make the best handhelds in my opinion, I have the Retroid Pocket 3+ and currently thinking if I get the RP4 Pro.

[@mrgwei]

Ergonomics are king for me the older I get. I used to love pocketable devices and still pick up my retroid pocket 3 from time to time but I definitely prefer the switch + steamdeck combo.

[@carlosrueda9204]

I already have a steamdeck but i never take that out the house. I just ordered the ambernic rg35xx. I want something portable for my 16bit games. My ds and 3ds also stay home

[@41dhos]

Here’s a question, I just really want to play the Moguri Mod for FFIX. Is there a system I can get when I don’t have a gaming computer?

[@SuperDerek]

Because the Moguri Mod is a mod of the PC version, you're going to probably need something like a Steam Deck because only handheld PCs can play PC games. If you already had a gaming PC you could stream it to other devices like a phone, but if you don't already have a gaming PC, the Deck is still a solid choice.

[@Eagleknight815]

The handheld world is a world I'm not too familiar with. Thought about the steam deck a few times but I personally enjoy my console play.

[@hanes2]

Did u skip star ocean second story r completely? Or is it in your backlog

[@SuperDerek]

Square Enix skipped _me_ this time around, but I might try it sometime. It's just hard to set aside time to re-review the remake when I've already made a full review within the last few years. :-P

[@lain11644]

The biggest appeal of Steam Deck to me is that you can access your Steam library, but it is very expensive. I'm traveling for 2 weeks and I want to bring a handheld with me. Buying a Steam Deck is just not a very economical solution.

[@thedetectingzonegaming4293]

Final fantasy adventure on gb and Jack bros. Derek knows what's up

[@sockpuppet187]

A while back I picked up an R36S for as cheap as dirt, I'm enjoying it playing it way more than expected. So much so than now I'm going to upgrade to a system that can do GC and PS2. If anyone has any questions about the R36S ask away.

[@manuzark]

which one you can recommend to play PS2 and GC?

[@sockpuppet187]

Depends on budget, some cheaper systems like a Retroid Pocket 3 or RG405M can do some games really well, maybe up to 60% of the library with tinkering. Higher priced an Odin 2 is great and will do near all GC and PS2 at 3x resolution with no problems and no tinkering, obviously the Steam Deck but that's huge. The Retroid Pocket 4 being released in January at $150 is definitely one to watch, it's not up to Odin 2 and Steam Deck standards but it's less than half the price and will be great for most GC and PS2.@@manuzark

[@Johntriger]

@manuzark The RP2s can play some of the main games like windwaker on GC pretty well. Good if you are on a budget and dont want to sink over $100 into it. I got the 3gb model for like 85 plus shipping

[@benpregent]

I really love the metal form factor for this machine. For that price the best bang for your buck is the Retroid Pocket 2S for 99$. I know its an Android device and harder to setup but you get everything up to Dreamcast plus some Gamecube and PS2 games. Was able to (with some tinkering) get DQ8 working well.

[@SuperDerek]

There's a ton of really good options out there for sure!

[@benpregent]

@@SuperDerek There really is! I've been using them to play all the RPGs I missed growing up. Just finished Lunar the other day.

[@alfasilverblade]

With that nice handheld Steam Deck, now would be the perfect time to enjoy that Lufia 2 while lying down confortably in your bed 😅

[@peejae082004]

Instead of the Gamesir x2, you can pick up an EasySMX M10 instead. Also $50 but you get hall effect analog sticks, analog triggers, macro and turbo function and it also has automatic sleep that won't drain your battery even if you leave it connected to your phone overnight - to reconnect it, you just press the Home button. No need to unplug and plug the controller back in. Dare I say, even the build quality is better on the EasySMX M10. It also comes in black.

[@xxnike0629xx]

I thought you were asking if anyone wanted a Steam Deck. 😢😢 🤣 Anyway, I hope you had a great Xmas!

[@SuperDerek]

Thanks dude, you too!!

[@DhavidSetiawanKilluaDhavid]

I just upgrade my base 64GB model to 1TB NVMe. Dual boot Steam OS and Windows Steam Deck feel more than enough. Even comparing Nintendo Switch with the same and non exclusive games, Steam Deck was better. The big problem now was the port itself

[@luvergod69]

An Ayn Odin 2 would be a good choice. It can emulate up to a Switch

[@vintagepennies6899]

Love my anbernic.

[@jamesbevan4479]

11:03 as someone who has regularly popped in the retroarch pub at penzance with Blackbeard and one-eyed Willy, I can confirm that when it comes to any emulation, performance will vary based on specs (shocking, I know 😂). I have a lower mid range office Lenovo laptop I use for work, that doubles as a retro gaming machine at home. It can quite easily play dreamcast, PS2, and a bunch more with next to no issues. But N64, Gamecube, and weirdly enough Sega Saturn, is very hit and miss. Surely if it can run PS2 then those others should be a breeze right? Unfortunately no.

[@MrGnuh]

no derek. you deserve a steam deck. you really do. i get not wasting money. but you're one of the most passionate gamers out there. like, a cyclist will also get themselves a good bike because they know they're gonna use the heck out of it. that goes for any hobby. if you love something to death, it can never be a waste to treat yourself

[@Frank_42]

How can you read anything of such a small screen?

[@SuperDerek]

Idk, how do you read things on your smart phone?

[@charlieb308]

I have a switch and never play it handheld, don’t want to break the tiny cheap joysticks. Not a fan of handheld at all. Great video though as always.

[@Fade2BlackSS]

I actually have the Gamesir and I absolutely love it personally. I have a decent enough phone that can run retro systems, Dreamcast, PS2, N64, PSP, some Gamecube, DS and 3DS titles. The only downside in my opinion is finding decent emulators and configuring some settings. But the larger screen, wide gamepad with analog controls and ability to charge while playing make it worth it to me.

[@SuperDerek]

Its definitely a nice way to game! The one I have has a sharp corner on the right side though that's a little uncomfortable, but it's super useful for specific things the other machine can't do. :)

[@adrian_veidt]

RpGs like Pokemon seemed weird to me back then. "Why tf are they are just still pictures? What a let down!" But I immediately change my mind after playing dragon quest, dragon warrior monsters and pokemon yellow. What sealed the deal for me are the ps1 and gba rpgs.

[@ActionJaxonH]

Imo, there's only 2 video game consoles I need. Switch OLED and SteamDeck OLED. I genuinely don't use my PS5, XSX or gaming PC anymore. The Switch and SteamDeck pretty much covers it all. Xbox and PS exclusives are on Deck, Switch exclusives are best on Switch and whichever 3rd party games get quality ports on Switch are best played there (Batman Arkham Asylum and City, Red Dead Redemption, Octopath Traveler 2, Divinity Original Sin 2, Persona 4 and 5, Monster Hunter Rise, etc) and those that aren't on Switch or have compromised ports are best on Deck (Hogwarts Legacy, Baldur's Gate 3, Halo Infinite, Spiderman, Dead Space, Gears 5, Final Fantasy VII Remake, etc). Both systems offer handheld play on the go and easily dock or connect to the TV for console like play (Switch additionally offers tabletop mode with removable controllers which is super dope). Both systems offer gyro aiming for the vast majority of games that benefit from it. They're the best 2 consoles money can buy (granted, once Switch 2 releases that'll naturally replace Switch to sit alongside SteamDeck as the best 2 consoles to own).

[@cam9144]

I'm still rocking my modded OLED PS Vita as a jrpg machine. At least everything up to the PS1 anyway.

[@SuperDerek]

Yeah, definitely no need to upgrade from that for the time being at least. :)

[@SGE-xe4ux]

I have an Analogue Pocket with Dock. For me Gamechanger, i need no other handheld.

[@SuperDerek]

Yep, a stunning machine, that.

[@PapaDragonMK]

I'm right now evaluating whether to buy a Steam Deck to play JRPGS or if I'd rather continue with my Nintendo Switch. Decisions...

[@SuperDerek]

Honestly, the Switch is a solid choice if you already have one. I ought to look into the various homebrew options available for it now because I bet that could be an equally solid pick. Especially if any homebrew can also do remote-play of PC or PS5 titles.

[@VyraLove]

Flash carts will exist soon.

[@PapaDragonMK]

@@SuperDerek Thanks for the advice!. What platform do you play most jrpgs on, whether modern or classic?

[@SuiteLifeofDioBrando]

​@@VyraLoveI am hyped for that

[@SuperDerek]

Honestly I've been doing nothing but original consoles for the last 10 years for the most part, but for the portability aspect I was willing to break my streak. But generally when given the choice I like playing on Super Nintendo or PlayStation 1.

[@Micchi-]

If you want a cheaper one that looks exactly like this but plastic try anbernic RG35XX H.

[@awakenedsoul2638]

Hey Hey Hey, YO DEREK! I want to ask you one question if you will notice my comment! Can you recommend the Steam Deck to many players?

[@SuperDerek]

Hi Soul! I recently ordered a Steam Deck for myself to try out to find out if I would recommend it to others as well, I haven't had much time to play around with it yet though, but I'll make a video about it soon with my full thoughts. :)

[@joshuarovere2459]

Retro handhelds are the shit. I've got a powkiddy v90 and it's great.

[@MrDarksol]

I think I've heard about the first machine a couple of years ago and even I heard some good praises for it. Maybe I'll do some more research and look into that Someday but this was a very nice look into some other amounts of tech involving emulation. Great job as per usual Derek and maybe I might get the first machine after all due to my friend standing by and screaming skies of Arcadia is really really good. Seriously Sega re-release that but i hope you had a Merry Christmas!

[@SuperGman72]

Steamdeck will play everything from The Nintendo Switch down through all the Nintendo console generations - almost without exception. The emulation techniques have vastly improved over recent years. Xbox 360 and PS3 are a little harder to run on the deck but there are often Steam versions of these games to make up for the shortfall. PS2 and Saturn and everything else all works brilliantly. The deck gives a platform for so much emulated bliss that it's hard to ignore. The handheld devices that are pricier than the deck may offer an enhanced PS3 / Xbox 360 experience.

[@sethhale235]

Great video, Derek! And as someone who is considering a Steam Deck so I can actually have the time to play some games while there's downtime at work, possibly very useful.

[@Pridetoons]

THIS MAN FINALLY BOUGHT A RETRO HANDHELD!!!

[@TakisEnjoyer]

I think that coming to this from the point of price is a bad idea and will bring here a lot of people that will only talk about how cheap you can actually get steam deck for. Because for me these Anbernic and other Handhelds are not about the price, its about the size. I had a steam deck, but i sold it after only 2 months because I realised that with how big and heavy it is, I just can never take it with me to work or just outside and at home I have a pc that at least 10 times more powerful. These handhelds on the other hand (haha) can fit in your pocket, extremely easy to carry around and their battery life is better most of the time.

[@ScandalUK]

Retroid Pocket 4 Pro (or at least a 3+) would take a little wee all over that device. None of these are quite as good

[@bobrod2224]

So many rpgs Don't worry, we'll finish them one😮😮🙂✨️💫

[@Hijynx87]

I think the steamdeck is amazing. When I get my tax returns I think I’ll upgrade to the oled and throw my mint og deck on eBay (maybe with the 1tb ssd).

[@junethefox5834]

>OnePlus 7 Pro spotted Ayyyyyyy

[@pencilcheck]

I play a lot of games, not just RPGs so steam deck works for me.

[@RandomTube-is6gt]

Honestly I'm more of a handheld guy and the steam deck plays RPGs generally way better than the switch in terms of fps and graphics.

[@X862go]

should just get a steam deck TBH

[@gmoney0987]

The whole “I’m a cheapskate” thing is pretty funny. You could sell like 5 games from your collection and buy a steam deck.

[@SuperDerek]

Yep! That's the difference between being cheap and broke. 😆

[@gmoney0987]

Haha. That’s fair. Touche

[@zZiL341yRj736]

I mean Switch also have many RPGs.

[@mo_musashi_284]

A modded Vita is all you need with the complete PS1 , PSP & Vita library.

[@SuperDerek]

Definitely a consideration -- I heard it can't really do N64 well or DS at all though, so this system might have an edge over it in certain situations.

[@mo_musashi_284]

@@SuperDerek but that Vita library tho 😂

[@McSmeecherson]

Anbernic is about to launch a cheaper plastic version very similar to the 353M. Check out the new RG35XX H

[@SuperDerek]

I'll keep an eye out, thanks! :)

[@JamesBantz]

I spy KOB!!!

[@SuperDerek]

Awesome to see I'm not the only fan of Miles Davis around here! :D

[@JamesBantz]

@@SuperDerek nope :)

[@terencecaron2922]

I don't know, seems like you're jumpin through a LOT of hoops, and pretending like a steam deck is VERY expensive when really, there are TONS of used steam decks at 200 to 300. Then you can do all that emulation + play games WITHOUT cloud (cause really what's the upside ? You still have to get a console to stream from in most cases...).

[@1DangerMouse1]

I agree about the steam deck

[@Clos93]

The steam deck is the best $400 I've spent in a LONG ass time. The price to performance is insane! Being able to play Elden Ring and PS3 games on a handheld is pure bliss!

[@SuperDerek]

Personally, I think that the deck's lack of pocketability would prevent me from carrying it around casually for the small unexpected opportunities for handheld gaming present themselves. There's no doubt that the value proposition of the Steam Deck is incredible, that's _why_ everything is a comparison _to it._ It's the thing to beat. And in some very specific niches, I think you could get by with a $150 handheld, or even a $60 Miyoo Mini Plus. Eventually though as even more models of the Steam Deck hit eBay, that price point will get a lot more heated. :)

[@rydamusprime]

Some people got to jump through the hoops so we don't all have to.

[@Timeforceletsgo]

@@SuperDerekcheck out the Retroid Pocket 4. It is 200 and can emulate up to PS2 and GameCube as well if you’re looking to not spend more money. It’s a great size too. I am with you, I personally wanted something the size of a switch lite so I got an Odin 2. To each their own, we are all using these devices for the same reasons though, GAMES!

[@zeframmann1641]

351m is kinda ancient and overpriced at this point. Viewers would be better off with a Retroid 2s, which is newer, cheaper, and more powerful than the 351m with the same hall-effect sticks. If you definitely want Linux over Android then the Powkiddy RGB30 is also top tier for the $100 price range. The market changes drastically every year. Also NEVER use the SD card they give you. They are beyond cheap and extremely prone to failure. A sandisk is worth it.

[@porkopio9468]

Steamdeck is very affordable tbf

[@79Dtrain]

Nintendo Switch has e tired the conversation 😅

[@SuperDerek]

Yeah, I think the lite is under rated, especially when you consider hacking. Personally though I hesitate to hack mine over concerns of getting blacklisted by Nintendo.

[@Pridetoons]

If you really love Gameboy, GBC, Neo Geo Pocket, Game Gear, and most 4:3 Content buy a RGB30 too. It's also an Amazing Handheld.

[@ggsora]

As an Anbernic RG353M review this is a good video. As an GameSir X2 overview this is a good video. What I don't get is why drag the steam deck into this. You mention the Anbernic RG353M and GameSir X2 cost you half the cost of the cheapest steam deck Valve is selling that's not completely true as you can still buy the 64 gb model while stock last. Like yes you can stream ps4/5 games to your phone but you still need the console, the controller maybe a 3rd app to get it to work. Like to say the steam deck is for the people who wanna play AAA games action games just feels like a disservice to retro gaming and steam deck community since with the release of the deck emulation as a whole has been stream lined with the release of emu deck. At the end of it the steam deck parts of the video felt tacked on and it just felt like someone trying start a fire when it wasn't needed. It was a good video now spoiled by trying to drag the steam deck into something it didn't need to be dragged into.

[@JarlBarbossa]

Waaaaah

[@ChrisSqueri]

These things are cool and all, but they don't come anywhere close to taking the place of a Steam Deck. The Deck opens you up to a ludicrous library of JRPGs , even if you only stick to what's on Steam. Expand that to emulation and you'll never run out of games to play.

[@JarlBarbossa]

Not pocketable. It's just a goofy laptop.

[@jarviesteven]

I know the inventory is limited, but the 64gb steam deck is $350. If you're a retro RPG player then you wont need the upgraded storage models. A friend let me borrow his steam deck and I have seen the light and now I'm planning on getting that one. I just sold my retroid pocket 2+ to help offset the cost, but even without that the steam deck is 100% worth it. If you're really keen on getting one cheap then you can look at the used market. lots can be had for around $250 which is not too far away from the $200 cost of the anbernic emulator

[@1DangerMouse1]

This is a lot of inconvenience to avoid getting a steam deck. I would rather just pay for a steam deck (which I did). I also would have found it much more helpful if you would have reviewed using a steam deck.

[@SuperDerek]

Being a cheap-skate is a lifelong skill of compromises, but admittedly I would also like to get my hands on a steam deck for comparison. One of the reasons for the affiliate link this time around is to build up money to snag a deck, or other devices to deep-dive.

[@LeMonkeyDaSucc]

Thats legit the most disgusting control layout I've ever seen on a handheld.

[@amazingdrewH]

Yeah why would an RPG player be interested in games like Morrowind, Infinite Undiscovery, or Starfield theres no reason to have an Xbox

[@SuperDerek]

Yeah, when PC exists, there's no reason to own an Xbox 😂

[@stevermacsoucher1625]

Playstation one has the best rpgs of all time . Dont just skip over it

[@VargavinterSWE]

Please, clean your mic. 😅

[@SuperDerek]

Yeah the windscreen could use a dusting I suppose now that I'm filming in 4k :-P