Analogue Pocket - My Worse Purchase Ever and Why I am Selling it

[@dogeymon83]

I don’t understand what you’re saying with “the library hasn’t come out”….what does that mean? The “library” is whatever carts you own, they work.

[@EverCanadian]

it is what it is... the sytsem has got a bit better still uncomfortable as heck

[@MarceloMedeirosb]

Maybe the Pc engine and neogeo pocket adapters?

[@aweirdwombat]

Yeah I was a bit confused by this

[@Spengali1]

He means the Analogue OS feature that catalogues and shows information for whatever games you insert from you library. This has been a promised festure for a while and only now just appears to have launched with the Duo so it's still going to be coming to the Pocket but it's not exactly a deal breaker that the Pocket doesn't have it yet. I've had my Pocket since first release two years ago and think it's great. I've played through several games in handheld mode and it's fine to hold. I do play it more docked but both ways are good.

[@stayfrostie2583]

He says the gold school DMG is comfortable but yet this sucks comfort wise... Lmao

[@Blank_01_01]

Strangely enough I’m the opposite, I find the immediate hand feel to be quite off putting due to the weight and rather sharper edges but for extended play I find it far more comfortable than a GBA which my left hand starts cramping after more than 10 minutes of use.

[@EverCanadian]

very cool... I keep trying to get it more comfy on extended play , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@Utubesuxmycock]

They are clueless about what makes a handheld. This thing is like holding a brick

[@AgentSmith2K]

Had mine for 8 months now and it’s fantastic. Absolutely recommend. Never really use my GB or GB advanced anymore

[@EverCanadian]

nice, glad you love it... , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@twerkfromhome]

It's spelled worst. Maybe it's a regional thing?

[@viridionwaves]

Analogue really needs to come out with a horizontal version like the original GBA. That would be amazing - I'd buy one right away.

[@EverCanadian]

OMG yes!

[@shalokshalom]

I agree

[@wyldelf2685]

​@@EverCanadiangreetings from central Florida ,yes I hate that pocket system too plus I don't like the company that made it either, , ,it's lower grade FPGA design is grossly overpriced ( there are different price range FPGAs ) they bragged about Library option , then you should have it , , , I'll be happy to see your modded upgraded GBA , , , Landscape is most comfortable for portable gaming , ,it should have been Landscape configured like Atari Lynx , Sega GameGear , Tiger GameCom, and first model Nintendo GBA , , , sell the POCKET while it still has online value and just get a Retroid-2 ,you will feel much better, , ,🎃👍👍

[@moobutt]

YES!!! I bought a big chinese NES and it’s the most comfortable handheld I have ever had.

[@mitchjames9350]

With the GBA screen size and resolution also a ds like console.

[@benjaminbjacobsen]

Weird, I've had mine a few months now and have played through ~10 games on it including link's awakening? The comfort hasn't been an issue for me at all. And I own all the different gameboys all in both OEM versions and modded versions. Kinda weird to complain about "the library" when switching to a modded gameboy locks you into the same limited library? You do you though, hopefully the new one you're trading for is what you're after.

[@EverCanadian]

Yeah I get it, but you were used to it by being nintendo Hanheld legend... as for the library I will acess it via my other Analog consoles... so I am good :) , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@GGRC]

Thanks for going into detail on the feel of it. Too many times I have watched reviews for certain handhelds and everyone talks about the technical capabilities but never the feel of the console. This one is too expensive for me to take a chance on that IMO...

[@EverCanadian]

yeah still feels rough to me, but I got big fat hands

[@vmbo]

Don't use the tip of the thumb, that's very uncomfortable. Use the middle part at the joint. In Apple words: you're holding it wrong

[@EverCanadian]

for sure... I will try that, thanks for the tip , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@cd4playa1245]

That’s why I bought the dock. Honestly I’ll probably keep it docked most of the time like my switch. Analogue systems won’t appeal to everyone but my brother and I both love them. The only thing I don’t like about analogue is they stopped selling their 500 dollar NES, which I’d gladly buy, after seeing my brothers. I really hope they make a Sega Saturn next.

[@EverCanadian]

YEah I got the dock also but really enjoy playing the games on the go ....don't get me wrong I have the snes and genesis analogue products and love them

[@cheapspace]

Man I bought the noir and waited patiently for it then on the week they were to deliver I got an email stating it was damaged during shipping I got a refund but was so disappointed I really wanted to play my nes games in hd

[@EverCanadian]

@@cheapspace that sucks man! sorry to hear that

[@cd4playa1245]

@@cheapspace that is very disappointing. Dang… did you try calling customer service, like, please take my money?

[@cheapspace]

@@cd4playa1245 i tried: i even asked if i can wait for a new batch but sadly no.

[@skycloud4802]

For me at least, the reason the original Gameboy is still so comfortable at a vertical form factor is probably because it's quite thick at the base. My hands wrap around it and it's nice and weighty, instead of cramping my hands.

[@EverCanadian]

I am actually getting more and more used to it, but still after 30 mins I get cramps... I guess i have old hands , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@thecurmudgeon7350]

This console should have had an OG Gameboy Advance form factor with an improved version of the Neo Geo Pocket D pad. Eventually a company will put out a FPGA system like this.

[@EverCanadian]

100% if the did that and made the software more reliable it would be amazing/ , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@adrianhetmanski1832]

I Love my Analogue Pocket, it can play all my fave classics anywhere on the go. It's not perfect, but then no hardware ever is.

[@EverCanadian]

agreed, I got fat hands :( thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@Prime-1111X]

Hello. Have you sold your system yet? I've brought a Big Boy Grip holder for mines. The holder makes the the Pocket bigger to hold

[@EverCanadian]

nope, decided to keep it as the person who was building me the GBA backed out , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :) I will look for that grip

[@allenfrisch]

Interesting… I was very close to selling my Pocket until the jailbreak and new cores were released a few weeks ago. Now I’m super happy with this system! It’s got a ways to go to be perfect, but now I can see that most (if not all) the handhelds and consoles I care about will eventually be supported. Also, the only problem I’ve got with the ergonomics are the shoulder buttons-they’re just a little too small and wiggly for my liking. Otherwise the Pocket feels great in the hands, and the size, feel, and placement of the controls are best in class! It’s obvious to me from its design that Analogue engineered the Pocket to primarily be the ideal GameBoy DMG/Pocket/Color replacement and that support for other systems was a secondary set of features. That’s why they gave it the vertical layout as well as the aspect ratio of the display. You should have purchased one of Anbernic’s metal handhelds with your preferences. They have models that are more pocket friendly as well as more reflective of the GBA’s aesthetics and layout but still have beautiful displays, equally professional engineering quality, and better OS support than the Pocket!

[@EverCanadian]

Great comment, I am slowly trying top get used to it, but I am afraid my hands continue to cramp up :( , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@SIPEROTH]

@@EverCanadian Just buy the dock and play with a controller then. That is actually how am mostly gonna use it. For now i still use it like a Game boy because the dock is still on it's way but i'll probably have it before the end of the month. Then am definitely going full screen since i don't really play much games on the go. When am out of the house is usually because i have something to do and if i ever find my self needed to waste a little time my smartphone is already more than enough. Not need to carry another device on me on top. So for me, i bought it more to play handheld (game boy, game boy advance, game gear etc) games on my big screen. The ability to use it as a standalone handheld is an extra for me.

[@EverCanadian]

@@SIPEROTH Thats what I am doing :) slowly getting less cramps with it

[@wrenn7473]

@@EverCanadian there are also aftermarket grips for the console that you can slide the pocket into, like the ones used for the Nintendo switch. I haven't tried them but it seems that a lot of people like them

[@wrenn7473]

@@EverCanadian dont forget that we are getting filter support for roms hopefully soon too.

[@seraph4581]

The reason your hands cramp up is because of the diamond shape button layout. A and B have a steeper angle than on an actual Gameboy, and they're too close to the edge, so it's very uncomfortable. Switching to Super GB mode and using B and Y instead makes a world of difference.

[@EverCanadian]

OMG that is it, I was wondering why as the the GBA SP is fine for me, plus those shoulder buttons also are not good , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@friendlyghost75]

It sucks that the library feature isn't in yet, but I think that Analogue will eventually get that right. They're an established company who has sold a lot of products and will sell more, and they will want people to be able to play them. I do think if that was the only problem you would regret selling the system after it gets fixed. On the other hand...you can't patch an uncomfortable form factor, and there's no point in owning a system that you don't want to play because it's physically uncomfortable. I actually had a somewhat similar problem with the PS5 controller, but of course you can buy 3rd party controllers for that (I ended up not having to because I changed the way I hold the controller and that resolved the issue. Have you experimented with different grips and ways of holding this?) You can't do that for a Game Boy form factor so replacing it with something that has a better form factor makes a lot of sense. I hope the custom GBA works out well for you!

[@EverCanadian]

yeah I just cannot get used to the grip or the lack of comfort while playing, it is just so darn awkward to play with for me

[@SuperInternetuser]

Can you connect it to an SP via old link cables?

[@EverCanadian]

not sure, do not have a link cable thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@SuperInternetuser]

@@EverCanadian Thanks for the reply! Is it true that the buttons on the transparent versions are rounder/less sharp on the edges?

[@bgcorporation]

With the grip issue, have you ever looked into the P-Wing Grip? It's a custom grip you attach to the Pocket. Might help with your cramped hands.

[@EverCanadian]

no, but I am getting used to this one now, so I may check that out also , thanks for the advice , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@jjm6187]

Wow, Link's Awakening looks amazing. I'm so on the fence as to if I'm going to keep mine or not. With that they go for secondary, I could nab a steamdeck and have leftover money.

[@EverCanadian]

My thoughts exactly , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@smoogles.5534]

@@EverCanadian man even though you don't like it that thing loooks INSANE crisp 10/10

[@thetechpastor]

As of January 2024, this thing is awesome. I use it both for GBA cartridges as well as a number of retro cores. I love it.

[@EverCanadian]

Right on! I got a pwr up grip and it is awesome now, I did an update video

[@NGreedia]

Is the form factor and comfort level better/worse than the gb color, gba SP or original gameboy?

[@EverCanadian]

I prefer the so over this, this one just feels to wrong, but I just got the pwr up grip and it is now glorious

[@martinofidacaro2281]

Anyone know when the 2023 group c will be going out?

[@EverCanadian]

I am not sure..., thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@martinofidacaro2281]

@@EverCanadian No problem anytime. Anyone else have any idea?

[@MarceloMedeirosb]

Have you ever comsidered using the pwrupnow grip for the analog pocket?

[@EverCanadian]

nope, never heard of it, will check into it thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@videogameobsession]

Is it really your worst purchase ever? Mine would be the Xbox 360... Twice. Both times iit died in under 6 months. Anyway, I love the Pocket. I have evry portable game system, multiples of most, and this is by far the most impressive one I've played. It's especially perfect for Game Boy and Game Boy Color. The original GBA was my favorite form factor. I never liked the feel of the SP. This will only keep getting better. The fact that we have GB, GBC, GBA, SG1000, Game Gear, SMS, Neo•Geo AES, Taito arcade, so soon after the OpenFPGA went live, it's very promising. To play hardware emulatrion of the most impressive 16-bit console on a beautiful portable likebtis is just incredible. I bought the AES system in 1990, so I might be more excited about that than most. Anyway.. I also bought the $99 Dock along with some 2.4g 8bitdo controllers so I can play everything on a big screen. This will of course be more at home when we start seeing more console, arcade, and computer cores hit (Genesis, SNES, Atari, and so on). The MiSTer is also great, but the Pocket for $199 (I pre-ordered in 2020), is like a portable version. The Library is coming this month IIRC. The future is bright with this system. You may want to hang onto it until the other updates are out.

[@EverCanadian]

everything you said is true except the comfort factor for me, now matter how great a system software maybe, if I cannot play it for more than a few minutes comfortably makes it very tough to like a system unfortunately. , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@videogameobsession]

Have you played the original DMG Game Boy or GB Pocket systems lately? To me, the Pocket felt about as ergonomic as the GBP. The only thing I had any issue with were the L/R buttons for GBA, but I got used to it without getting "claw hands" after several play sessions. Being able to map those to the other face buttons was also helpful for a few games. I've honestly been playing it mostly through the Dock lately. I have it connected to my 24" PlayStation 3D Display, and I use the 8bitdo N30 (NES) SN30 (SNES), and M30 (Genesis) 2.4g wireless controllers with it. So it's like Kevtris' often mentioned, but never released "Zimba 3000" FPGA console to me.. Especially when we start getting system cores in the double digits. It's a pretty tremendous value now that we're seeing more cores releasing. Perhaps when more of these are produced, and in the hands of gamers, you'll see some 3rd party grips get released. I have a friend who swears by those. He said his 3DS and PSP were pretty much unplayable for him without the new grips. They made them much more like holding a traditional controller. I could also see Analogue possibly releasing a horizontally oriented Pocket, along the lines of a GBA/NGPC, someday. This certainly feels like it'll be their flagship product for the foreseeable future.

[@Philosophical_Ralph]

I hope Analogue doesn’t die. Hopefully a bigger company partners or buys them so they can pump out more units. I’d get one but the shipping date just says 2023 no month nothing. I’ll just wait for Nintendos next console

[@EverCanadian]

Yeah I wish them well, I am still playing this console but man the form factor still irks me thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@Alex8383838383]

Quick question, if the cartrige doesnt save anymore on my old game boy color, will it save on this thing?

[@EverCanadian]

Save states should work for sure,

[@bootywrecker]

if your cartridge isn't saving on your games you need to replace the battery inside the cartridge, has nothing to do with the console afaik

[@RedRanger2001]

At least this one lets you use Lynx, Game Gear, and Neo Geo Pocket Color by using the adapters... The Hyperkin Retron SQ and the Hyperkin Smartboy only lets you use official cartridges...

[@EverCanadian]

100%, but expensive those adapters are for people outside the USA thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@OneWetWombat]

See man idk I have had just a way different experience. I’ve got well over 300hrs put into my pocket. Many sessions of extended play and just haven’t had issues with the sizing or weight of it. For reference I’m 6’4 and I got some big hands. Not having the library doesn’t really bother me much either as my ez boy omega de does that for me. I have a fairly extensive library of physical carts from GBA to GB/GBC and I’ve finally been feeling like I’m getting some nice use out of them. The long battery life, display resolution and sound quality feels great to me. Originally I was planning to do the whole modded GBA as well but I’ve yet to even just get one for my basic collection. If I was too have any complaint I guess it’s just the L + R positioning to the game carts or just getting my prints all over it because of the matte finish it has.

[@EverCanadian]

100% respect the comment, after hearing more stories like this I am playing it more and more and trying to get used to it... the shoulder buttons are hosre poop LOL , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@blodguizer]

All the library does is keep track of the cartridge games you have played on it. If your hands are large I can understand your problems but I have no issue with it. I just got Dead in the Brain working on the PC engine CD core and so many other games with no effort on my part as other people are doing all the work on the core development. I have never been more satisfied with a hardware purchase.

[@EverCanadian]

I am happy for you, when I did this review the Library was not even on the device and it ahs bene updated so much since then. I also have a grip for it now :) thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@chrisb1236]

Did you get your GBA? How does it compare?

[@EverCanadian]

still waiting.... :(

[@CBHPwnz]

Hey there EC, first time watcher, thanks for sharing! Curious how if so have your impressions of the pocket changed over time?

[@EverCanadian]

I did a second chance video and tbh my opinion on it has become more positive, but tbh I still prefer playing my OG GBA for form factor.... thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@HCRAYERT.]

Analogue needs to make one as big as the DMG with the buttons layout being the same as it.

[@EverCanadian]

not sure what DMG is but ok thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@kissthistwice5]

I agree Pete about the choice of design. I would have considered it if they had gone with og GBA design. Didn't know there was meant to be save states or a built in library. I also got a custom GBA (for my mrs) which is really nice

[@EverCanadian]

yeah they really chose the wrong design for me also.... there are reasons why all newer handhelds are not designed like this

[@Jschwab96]

I grew up playing the GBA SP and the Nintendo DS so honestly even if comfort is slightly worse, I’m much more likely to play it in its current deign as if feels more nostalgic for me, and being the type of console that it is, it’s made for nostalgia purposes.

[@EverCanadian]

@@Jschwab96 totally inderstand ...I just can't get comfy wit it

[@ozanoutcast]

I wish there were a new nostalgic black screen (actual size) Game Boy with all the 2000+ games pre-installed and a search engine or alphabetic order. It would keep me going.

[@EverCanadian]

I would buy that for sure, thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks

[@rgm4646]

I got my old gameboy out, I dont see the difference. The gameboy is thicker and lighter of course but the form is very similar, but I will play something for a few hours to test that.

[@EverCanadian]

yeah just I am playing mostly GBA and shoulders buttons are also not great for me, the comfort is just so tough for me... it works for others though :) , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@rgm4646]

@@EverCanadian I’ve never been a huge handheld gamer. So I’m looking forward to getting the dock. I rarely undock my switch lol

[@ninetendopesaitama2107]

There is a Grip you can 3d print. Should handle your issues. Its a device nobody else offers. A MiSTer Gameboy. Its just mindblowing how accurate it is.

[@EverCanadian]

Nice, I am checking out options for grips. , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@ninjacape]

Interesting. I only heard positive reviews for it. The price is what scared me away but now it seems there are more issues.

[@EverCanadian]

yeah a lot of people are ignoring things with this product, analogue gets a free pass where so many other companies don't it seems

[@stephanietremblay9851]

Why would anyone buy this when you can buy a powkiddy V90 for 35$ and play all the GBA games or other 32,16 or 8bit games flawlessly?

[@zenoxodius-8483]

Because this is not emulation and it's higher quality product.

[@Returnality]

Funny that you say it's uncomfortable for people with big hands, because that might have sold me on it. I have tiny baby hands, so it must be meant for me lol

[@EverCanadian]

sweet! :) thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@Riz2336]

I think most people use these things as an emulation box now as opposed to what it was originally intended for

[@EverCanadian]

for sure! thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@theprophet2444]

you could get a 3D printed Grip, sure it looks ugly but you're looking at the screen playing it anyway and it will improve your play much more. The software is now pretty amazing, also used on the Dock with the CRT filter, playing NES or SNES or other 8Bit/16Bit consoles is amazing.

[@EverCanadian]

I got the pwr up grip, the video is on the channel, makes this system awesome thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@keaton718]

Yeah the shoulder buttons must be hard to press with a cart in it. I just ordered a Pocket and plan on using the FPGA cores for all games to keep the cart slot free, make it feel a bit more like a GBA SP.

[@EverCanadian]

yeah, good plan

[@dangmyang7547]

Did you update the firmware? I thought the Library feature was working for original cartridges on the newest firmware. I do feel your complaints about the form factor, though. Personally, it feels comfortable enough for me, but I haven't put much time into GBA games yet so I guess I'll see if my opinion changes once I play a game that requires extensive use of L and R. I do plan to print a flat cart slot adapter so my fingers can rest more comfortably on those buttons. I certainly wouldn't mind if Analogue put out a wide version in the same form factor as the original GBA.

[@EverCanadian]

yes I have the latest firmware :( I play primarily GBA games, so those shoulder buttons are whack LOL .... , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@adrian_veidt]

I just put the money on odin 2 or rp3 plus lol This looks cool, but it's just not my cup of tea. For my old cartridges, I have a modded gba for that.

[@EverCanadian]

A modded GBA is the best route I think, thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@sternosaur]

I mean honestly, I got this thing to be the perfect modern gba player with the dock, and it is perfect for that, especially with all of the cores.

[@EverCanadian]

awesome glad you like it , but it is so uncomfortable for me. Also if ya liked the SP you will like this, me I prefer OG GBA , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@sternosaur]

Oh yeah I get what you mean, that's why I say docked mode because then at that point you can use whatever Bluetooth controller you want and at that point comfortability is just reliant on what controller you're willing to get for it

[@thaKingRocka]

I hate the form factor. The shoulders are terrible. It helps that I can have the face buttons replicate them, but it's still just a bad feel overall.

[@EverCanadian]

yes it is

[@viridionwaves]

They also need to update the dock so it's easier to put the pocket in and take it out. A horizontal version of the pocket (that had perfect integer scaling with the GBA screen) and dock 2 would be the best of all worlds

[@EverCanadian]

Yeah I find updating the devices a pain in the but, wish it had wifi thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@nosouponhead]

I'm not convinced anyone who bought the Analogue Pocket actually uses it.

[@EverCanadian]

O hardly use mine... thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@thebombingsoda]

If they made it in a landscape format, like the GBA and game gear, I think it would be a lot better

[@EverCanadian]

Thats all I want, but maybe v2 , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@user-yk1cw8im4h]

yes the gba is superior, as it’s the newer iteration than the gbc

[@TheAngryKilt]

I was waiting for it to be exactly as is right now, nes and snes emulator with save states and sleep mode for nes games. unbelievable machine

[@EverCanadian]

Yeah I need to give ti a second look for this also

[@user-yk1cw8im4h]

they were aiming for that slick retro look and chose the gbc form factor. Looks over comfort sounds about right for this company.

[@EverCanadian]

yeah I get that is what they were going for, just not my jam , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@user-yk1cw8im4h]

@@EverCanadian yes the gba is more comfortable/better as its the successor to the gbc after all.

[@chaospoet]

Now you have some, not fully, but some understanding what those of us back in the early 90s had to deal with. Imagine a device like this with twice the bulk so even with big hands it was still a pain to wrap your fingers around it. The added weight of 4 AA batteries. And if it was dark you'd put a giant magnifying glass with a lamp built into it that also used batteries that weighed as much as the device itself and that was how we played Gameboy games. Forget the screen and backlight and all that. We'd have killed our mothers for something like this back then because it would have hurt our hands less. It's why everyone bought a Gameboy Color. No one cared about the Color part. Everyone just wanted to play on something that didn't feel and weight as much as an actual brick.

[@EverCanadian]

HAHAHA I feel your pain, I did not own a Gameboy when I was a teenager, so Missed the pain LOL... but man that game library was killer, I did like the og GBA though, even the flip GBA is awesome compare to this. , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@sebastianflesjandersen939]

lol, did you sell / trade it? - Now with openFPGA and the dock it's basically the best thing since sliced bread. - I've got big hands and I wouldn't say it's anymore uncomfortable than the original DMG

[@EverCanadian]

No I have not sold it, giving it a second chance... the dude who was suppose to buy it backed out, so now I am playing it again , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@MrTableDesk]

I was kinda half disappointed by the Pocket until the other week when the OpenFPGA cores came out; now, it's pretty much the only thing I'm gaming on at the moment. There's a couple issues that bug me though: -The D-Pad kinda sucks, I get so many false 'down' inputs when I'm trying to go right -The lack of Display modes on the OpenFPGA cores (Although this is being worked on) -If you run Pokemon Crystal through the OpenFPGA GBA core, there's no Realtime Clock support as of now. Outside of that though, I'm loving it; and most of those issues are slowly being addressed. The form factor hasn't really bothered me; all hands are shaped different I suppose. The only thing that really worries me long-term about the Pocket, is what am I supposed to do with it like 5-10 years down the road when the battery turns into a spicy pillow. Which is the same fear I have for my DSes, my 3DSes, and my GBA SPs.

[@EverCanadian]

great points, I am so happy you are enjoying it :) , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks

[@aweirdwombat]

I think the original GBA had the form factor right for a device of about this size. You want the buttons to the side of the screen. You don't have to cram your hands together and it matters much less if it's top heavy (since the top isn't hanging above your hands). While I like the aesthetics of the Gameboy and the Gameboy Advance SP, I don't think they were the best models to use as a template, particularly when the SP design was a compromise to fit better into your pocket.

[@EverCanadian]

yeah I just wish it was the GBA advance design, other wise is it solid hardware thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@LesDL69]

Ive had mine for a month now and I love my analog man.. I’m not picky at all… as long as it looks good… quality is great.. buttons great…weight is great… doesn’t heat up… I play it about 2 hours a day and hands down it’s amazing. I think you made this video wayyyyy too early… should have waited a bit… but yes you are rambling… I don’t wanna sound mean but you kinda sound like a kid who’s having a bad day and just complains about how much of a shit day they’re having. If the price went up then something went right after… just saying

[@EverCanadian]

I made the video exactly when I received it and the improve the product somewhat since then, but they cannot fix the ergomics for me, so I bought a grip thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@exodous02]

I didn't see the point in this, as a handheld anyway. If I'm no the go there are so many options for handhelds. This is nice when you plug it into the dock and HDMI because it plays so many systems.

[@EverCanadian]

Yeah It is a niche item for sure

[@deadringer8050]

What library is missing I have all the 8 and 16 bit consoles and handhelds fpga cores and they all work

[@EverCanadian]

The library was not a console compatibility or FPGA, but an historical database that catalogs games, their history, digital encyclopedia of sorts etc.. it is meant to be a digital library that mimics that of an archive, thats how they branded it. , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@thomasgronlund9186]

I love the new Evercade exp. That one feels awesome in the hands. Plus tate mode is super cool. I wouldn’t mind having one of these though, but the itch isn’t there as much now, having the exp. It’s also fun buying and using new charts. Being a collector as I am.

[@EverCanadian]

Right on!

[@TarikA]

I see many points of your video and yes, horizontal devices are more comfortable than vertical ones. Still it is what you paid for in the beginning: A vertical device. You knew this. It's almost the same experience (haptic wise) as with an original DMG. I do second your complains about the shoulder buttons though. As for the other things (software): You waited this long only to sell it now, literally right before everything you wanted will be delivered with FW updates? I know it took them long. Too long. Way too long. But since last month they eventually started f*cking TALKING to us and putting out those damn FW updates so we're settled now. Also thanks to openFPGA, other people can do what Analogue doesn't.

[@EverCanadian]

Thanks for the respectful comments, I get your points, but the main reason I am trading it is due to the comfort factor, I honestly did not think I would dislike that so much, lesson learned for sure. Remember I still do ahve a few Analogue consoles so I will get their update son those I hope :) , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@cljoe35]

Just sell your pocket to someone else dude. You don’t deserve one. It deserves a better owner.

[@EverCanadian]

oh no.... oh no... , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@cljoe35]

@@EverCanadian not gonna happen, bud.

[@EverCanadian]

oh well.... time to go play my analog pocket and complain in another video I guess LOL

[@SebastijanStanivuk]

I had one and I have sold it. I had the same problems. One more complaint is the screen, it is too big and the resolution is too big. I mean these games were meant to be played on much smaller resolution. I dont know about technical reasons why the screen is bad but it is, trust me. Especially for original GB games. Playing more then 20 min is difficult. Way better experience for me was GBA.

[@EverCanadian]

thanks for the comment, yeah I just cannot get used tot he form factor, but I have a pwr up grip for it now and it is better thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@overdriver99]

um.. I finally got limited color of this. I have used about 2 months and I have same conclusion of yours: It is my cursed hands.. I don't feel comfortable. My main target / goal of this system use is for GB, GBC and GBA. nothing else. first of all GB/GBC cartridge insertion is kind of shallow.. not deep enough to give me to feel secure holding/supporting its physical weight. and for GBA.. as you know the shoulder button is kind of awkward with GBA cartridge. I really really really wished that they design somehow bigger R/L button or some other smarter placement(like clam shell design ? I dunno). I feel cramp and not comfortable because of these reason. yeah I have 0 problem with my OEM GB / GBC and GBA SP. so... I just ordered laminated IPS mod kit for my GBC. I have 0 talent on soldering so I ordered a drop-in kit. I also have bunch of Anbernic devices for anything else. I may end up keeping this but it is soooooo disappointing.. I think I rather buy another GBC with modded bigger IPS. I am not sure about GBA though. I would just stick with my GBA SP 101 model.. for a while.

[@EverCanadian]

yeah it is so uncomfortable for me... been trying to get used to it thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@arthurcarneirolopes6383]

I know two GBA clones that have the horizontal design, backlit screen, charging and some extra features that cost from 65$ to 85$ or even less during sales, they don't play GBC natively but they play everything else. If you want to take a look they are called RevoK101+ and Digi Retro Boy.

[@EverCanadian]

awesome thanks for the info and thanks for watching!

[@keestar8740]

Nothing wrong with your opinion G you’re entitled too it I think sometimes nostalgia clouds factual judgement so it’s refreshing to have a different perspective on it, it’s far too much money these systems shouldn’t be any higher than £150 GBP

[@EverCanadian]

thanks :)

[@onetwo6039]

I love it. Only thing I hate, is that it still doesn't work with the analogue DAC while attached to the dock. I really want to play my portable games on CRT over component. 😔

[@EverCanadian]

Are they working on addressing it? I have since grown to like this device... thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :) thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@edgarherrera7758]

Llate to the game but they are doing another release. I have modded a og gba so i was looking for something i could plug to my tv to play games. This still sounds like the cheapest way to go with the option to undock it. Not sure what library

[@EverCanadian]

modded GBA is the ticket imho

[@SumDumGy]

“Historical database?” Where does that come from? I this whole constant software updates to what are supposed to be retro consoles is a joke. There shouldn’t be any need for it. Design the product. Produce the product. QA the product. Release the product. Period. That’s what retro gaming is and should be. Hell, modern gaming should be, as well. If Anaolgue over-promised on their software then that’s just another failure in a long line of how they do business, and we don’t hold them accountable. But this is a GameBoy at the end of the day. A modern GameBoy. No one should have ever expected, or cried for, anything more than that.

[@EverCanadian]

The library was a big selling piece they promised advertised heavily, I wanted that , unfortunately they have failed on that level.... , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@SumDumGy]

@@EverCanadian Interestingly, I don’t recall anything being said at all about a database or a library in the three years(?) I’ve followed this product. If it was promised, that was not something they should have done. It’s not even the right kind of product for something like built in games. This should have been addressed and marketed no differently than their other FPGAA consoles, and that’s all I want it for. Analogue’s ego and business practices are horrific, but as long as we keep buying, they won’t care.

[@mrgatogris8863]

I love my analogue pocket and the screen looks beautiful ❤

[@EverCanadian]

so good but not great

[@LeoA2600]

Hopefully nobody has covered this in an older comment, but Pitfall 2 does run slow. The developer of Activision Anthology struggled to get full speed 2600 emulation up and running on the GBA. The more complex games like Pitfall 2, River Raid, Enduro, H.E.R.O., and so on all run noticeably slower than they do on real hardware.

[@EverCanadian]

yes it does run slower for sure...I have all of them on my og atari hardware... nice catch

[@tiger_vii]

I ordered it and waiting and waiting, can't wait for it...anyone selling theirs?

[@EverCanadian]

I was, but am no longer selling it as I started to get used to it more , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@rockmanfan5104]

They sell grips for this thing online that might solve your problem with the ergonomics. They are most likely just 3d printed but I had some for my joycons and they felt great even though 3d printed.. idk I don't have my pocket yet but it's just a thought

[@EverCanadian]

Thanks for the tip I am looking into a proper grip...I a slowly getting use dot it, I did a follow up video a few weeks past check it out. thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@rockmanfan5104]

@EverCanadian I will check it out! Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Maybe in a year or so if I get mine ever, I will upload mine as well 🤔

[@bryanreeve7353]

Guess you never used a gameboy sp you hold it the same way the only difference is this screen is stationary

[@EverCanadian]

never owned a Gameboy when I was young, first real handheld I loved was DS and PSP :) thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@shawnrobin2913]

He actually sold me on it. The way he described how beautiful the screen looks. I call the title CAP

[@EverCanadian]

awesome, I have kept it and am trying to love it more , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@mexmexican8619]

Wow. This is easily the best purchase I’ve ever made.

[@EverCanadian]

Great to hear! thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@Mobik_]

Is the best purchase I have ever did in my entire life.

[@EverCanadian]

awesome! thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@steveothehulk]

Maybe it needs one of those hand grip holder things that you get on Etsy

[@EverCanadian]

I may look into that... thanks for the tip...

[@joesaiditstrue]

Hopefully Analogue releases a "GBA" inspired "Pocket II". This design was never optimal

[@EverCanadian]

100% would be better thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@videogamepolak0]

I heard that. I picked up a 3ds on the cheap and just couldnt get into it and my hands would cramp up and get tingly within minutes of playing. And the way to circumvent this would be like to lay on the bed or floor and extend your arms out. PS vita and switch not so much, unless im playing for a extended period of time.

[@EverCanadian]

yeah I am lucky if I get 20 minutes out of it before the cramps begin

[@videogamepolak0]

@@EverCanadian ill trade u a evercade vs for it :wink:

[@Vicstruction]

Buy a $10 grip to make it comfortable lol

[@EverCanadian]

@@Vicstruction did not even know they had one available

[@Serpsss]

I preordered the evercade exp then found out they just use a cheap sd card chip in carts so from a collectors mentality there's not a lot of longevity sadly. Some people's launch day carts already seem to have reached their read/write limit.

[@EverCanadian]

really that sucks... I have not had issues with mine so far, fingers crossed , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@Canadian_Gamer]

Well said. I just posted my review and had similar complaints.

[@EverCanadian]

kewl

[@Payo11]

Im not getting it until 2023..How much you want ill buy it

[@EverCanadian]

it is already sold to a person who is building me a modded or GBA, sorry

[@Payo11]

@@EverCanadian yea I heard u say it in the vid 400 to 600 just ain't worth it to me

[@jakesmith5278]

It's a vertical form factor. We used to love the GameBoy back in the days 'cause we're 5 and don't know sh!t or care about comfortability. Plus, our hands used to work well.

[@EverCanadian]

Yeah just can't get my fat hands to like it , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@the-homosaur]

I’m getting mine in a few days and am already on the fence about keeping it, not really because of the device but specifically because how incredible MiSTer is over a year later since I ordered. I was thinking that in concert with the dock it might serve some general use for emulation and that niche has been filled. That being said playing handheld on the MiSTer still just feels bad so I’d like to see this work out. I’ll probably keep it just due to the promise of more cool stuff now that’s it’s opened up but the ergo to me seems like a real big L

[@EverCanadian]

I hope you enjoy it, the games do look great on this device for sure , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@rockmanfan5104]

Just buy a grip for it and call it good. Not that hard

[@Kyss007]

the analogue pocket always has looked like ass. the screen is awesome but the boxy design and the useless extra buttons for gameboy made this a nogo for me. instantly ordered the funnyplaying gbc when i found out about it

[@EverCanadian]

yeah I think they were purely going for the GB vibe

[@Kyss007]

@@EverCanadian i think their goal was to make a drop in replacement for gameboy hardware. imo the best way about it

[@hansolodolo92]

I just don’t understand why anybody would buy something with this price tag when this thing is cheaper that doesn’t a lot more. I mean I get the purest, but if you don’t care about having the physical copies, this thing is overpriced. I’d rather get a modded Game Boy.

[@EverCanadian]

you ain't wrong, but I got a lot of hate on this video thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@au_kryptosilverstacking6576]

Main complain is the form factor other than that is a great device

[@EverCanadian]

100% and at the time the half baked software, which to their credit they fixed it :) thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@kr4t0sg.28]

I bought one but hate the slanted buttons. Traded it for a 3ds xl snes edition cib.

[@EverCanadian]

nice... it certainly is not for every one , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@relicgamer2137]

I agree, I actually rather they made it into the advanced form. Maybe someone will make a kit one day. I'm also disappointed in the way the bus is ran. I pre-ordered the adapters today and they won't release them till Q3 of 2023 pathetic when you can order a steam deck and get it in a week. I believe they are making money off the interest of the pre-orders.

[@EverCanadian]

100% I mean buyer beware.... that's why Isaid for me its my fault for ordering it, but that software is a joke for me... but to pretend they are bulletproof from critism is not cool right

[@lukaskidd4621]

Agree 💯 it has too many unresolvable issues.

[@EverCanadian]

yes, Ia m trying to keep playing it, just not my jam! thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@CeceliPS3]

So it's uncomfortable for being just like a Game Boy Color? I've got news for you... You don't like the Game Boy Color. Just get a Game Boy Color Advance with IPS mod. It will be cheaper and your problems will be over.

[@EverCanadian]

I am getting a GBA super modded , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@baddboo]

Why so many for sale on eBay ? Seems legit and built tough. But why do people buy and resale ?

[@EverCanadian]

not sure, I have not sold mine

[@Evercade_Effect]

At least there's a happy ending. Can't wait to see your pimped out GBA.

[@EverCanadian]

yeah super excited, but parts are delayed due to chip shortages meh

[@mavenaz1975]

It’s not comfortable for me either. Vita Form-Factor + FPGA would be bliss

[@EverCanadian]

100% Vita for life! , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@GLRYB2GD]

Thank you for your honesty.

[@EverCanadian]

My pleasure! , thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks as it means a lot to me :)

[@CrackinDutches]

You can just get an ergonomic handle for long sessions. Problem solved

[@EverCanadian]

I got one...

[@BrandonNielsen87]

I want this console but in the Game Gear handheld design. Make Analogue Game Gear with all the buttons to be able to play all the different games, and that will be INSTABUY from me!!! This vertical Gameboy design just doesn't work as analogue because you'd need to use the trigger buttons as well, and the original Gameboy console was designed for two buttons in the front. Reason why I passed on this console is because I play Tony Hawk games A LOT, and that requires trigger buttons to do tricks, so it would cramp my hands so bad. It is a beautiful gameboy pocket, still.

[@EverCanadian]

Great comment, I too should have passed on this system, but fomo got the worse of me, it happens from time to time.... Thanks for watching, if ya subbed many thanks :)

[@brownboy90]

I agree about the design. It is uncomfortable no doubt about that. Should have been game boy advance style. Apart from that though it's an amazing handheld now the Open FGPA is available. I have Snes, Megadrive, Master System, Game Gear, NES, Game Boy, Neo Geo AES, Capcom and Sega Arcade and a bunch of others... Game and Watch. If Analogue release a more powerful one that goes up to PS1 and has that GBA form factor... well.. I'm paying down more cash for sure.

[@EverCanadian]

Fair enough! I actually gave mine a second chance and I still own it and tbh I am getting used to the ergonomics more thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :) thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)

[@lukaskidd4621]

Crappy, crampy d-pad placement which I agree is uncomfortable. Finicky cartridge slot. The Game Gear adapter doesn't have full compatibility with all carts which means they didn't test it with enough carts. GBC games don't look all that great in some cases they're almost too big, its beautiful but overrated still. Software is shitty af. The mods on Reddit are suppressing any and all bad feedback.

[@EverCanadian]

wow , but everyone hate son me for having issues, well said man!

[@damikki]

Still bloody waiting for mine, which is coming in 2023. I agree software should be finished though.

[@EverCanadian]

I really hope you like it ... games look awesome

[@RetroSho]

Software is pretty further along now. The Library will be added in full next month with more updates to come after. I’m guessing it’ll be done just in time when you get it 😛

[@EverCanadian]

@@RetroSho sounds good... hope it is aweseome!

[@percyvolnar8010]

The analogue pocket is a waste. as openFPGA gets ported to other cheaper FPGA boards, people will be making their own handhelds on the cheap from existing handhelds. A 30 dollar fpga will run all cores up to playstation one. That is a rock-solid library of games.

[@EverCanadian]

It is a niche product for sure

[@Mekaneckpain]

I'm the opposite. I hate the GBA. Now the GBA SP I find to me much more comfy.

[@EverCanadian]

Nice! :) thanks for watching, thanks for subbing, I appreciate you being here :)