Anbernic has dropped the launch video for the RG 477V, and honestly? I wasn’t expecting to be impressed. After all, the “vertical handheld” space is usually where manufacturers stash their quirky experiments — cute, nostalgic, sometimes brilliant, often compromised. It’s where dreams of Game Boy-shaped emulation machines go to live or die.
But this time? Well, I guess I have to swallow my pride here. This thing actually looks premium.
Yep, the words “Anbernic” and “premium” are happily co-existing in the same sentence. Let’s dive in.
A first look — vertical, full-screen, and weirdly slick
The RG 477V is being pitched as Anbernic’s first full-screen vertical Android handheld, and it really leans into the “full-screen” part. Slim bezels, shiny glass front, controls tucked neatly around the display — it’s like an Android phone and a retro handheld had a very well-designed baby.
Importantly, this is the sort of device that low-budget efforts like the R36MAX want to be. In fact, those cheaper devices think they are the RG 477V, but if Anbernic’s previous releases is anything to go by, the R36MAX and co will be quickly forgotten.
If you’ve been following Anbernic’s recent devices, they’ve been edging toward more polished industrial design, but this is the first time it feels like they’ve matched that ambition with a modern layout. The front is dominated by a 4.7″ 120 Hz display — sharper and smoother than anything Anbernic has put in a compact unit before.
Vertical handhelds tend to be chunky, plasticky nostalgia boxes, but this one looks far more interesting. Those controls are crying out to be touched and played with, rather than hoping you won’t notice they’re a bit unresponsive.
Specs roundup — small shell, serious muscle
Not much is confirmed about the RG 477V at this stage, but we do know:
- 4.7″ 1280×960 screen, 120 Hz refresh rate
Retro games will scale beautifully, modern games will move buttery-smooth. - Android OS
So this isn’t your typical Linux-powered emulation brick — it’s a full Android gaming device. - High-performance chipset (Dimensity-class)
Same family of SoC powering the RG 477M. Translation: it’s built for more than SNES emulation. - Wi-Fi 6E + Bluetooth 5.3
Great for streaming, cloud gaming, and accessory pairing. - Dual analogue sticks + modern button layout
No “retro layout compromises” that make FPS or modern 3D games a pain. - Compact, vertical form factor
Pocketable without feeling like a toy.
If Anbernic’s pricing stays predictable, this could be one of the most powerful compact handhelds on the market without crossing into “I could’ve bought a used Steam Deck” territory.
What it means for retro gaming
Vertical handhelds traditionally thrive on 8-bit and 16-bit nostalgia. The RG 477V breaks that mould by being powerful enough to push PS2, GameCube, and even some Wii-level emulation. Suddenly, that tall-screen format isn’t just for GBA marathons — it could be a proper all-rounder.
That 120 Hz panel? Overkill for retro, brilliant for Android titles and cloud gaming.
Time to get excited?
If you’re into handhelds — especially retro devices — the RG 477V is one of the most interesting launches in months. Not because it’s the biggest or most powerful, but because it’s ambitious in a category that usually plays it safe.
Vertical handhelds haven’t had a shake-up in ages. Anbernic just delivered one.
If the build quality holds up and the performance matches expectations, this could be the compact handheld for:
- GBA and SNES perfectionists
- Dreamcast/PSP tinkerers
- PS2/GameCube experimenters
- Android indie fans
- Cloud-gaming commuters
- Anyone who wants a high-end gaming handheld without carrying a tablet
The RG 477V has officially graduated from “quirky curiosity” to “serious contender.”
I’ll be keeping my eye on it — and if we can get hold of one, expect a full Gaming Retro hands-on. In the meantime, you can sign up for updates at anbernic.com.
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Christian Cawley is the founder and editor of GamingRetro.co.uk, a website dedicated to classic and retro gaming. With over 20 years of experience writing for technology and gaming publications, he brings considerable expertise and a lifelong passion for interactive entertainment, particularly games from the 8-bit and 16-bit eras.
Christian has written for leading outlets including TechRadar, Computer Weekly, Linux Format, and MakeUseOf, where he also served as Deputy Editor.
When he’s not exploring vintage consoles or retro PCs, Christian enjoys building with LEGO, playing cigar box guitar, and experimenting in the kitchen.
