The newly announced Retro X5 from Acemagic is a retro-styled mini PC that pairs console-inspired design with surprisingly high-end modern hardware, positioning it as both a compact gaming system and a general-purpose desktop PC.
At its core is AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, a 12-core, 24-thread chip paired with Radeon 890M integrated graphics. That puts the Retro X5 well beyond the lightweight emulation boxes typically associated with retro gaming, suggesting it’s intended to handle more demanding workloads alongside classic titles.
And, of course, it looks like a Nintendo Entertainment System. You can of course get a Raspberry Pi with a NES-style case, but this AMD-based system is a bit more powerful.
The PC also includes an AMD XDNA 2 NPU, offering up to 50 TOPS of AI compute. According to the announcement, this will be used to support future software features rather than affecting performance at launch.
Focus on simplified retro gaming
Displayed at CES 2026, the Retro X5 ships with RetroPlay Box, a bundled software environment designed to reduce setup and configuration when accessing classic-style games. Rather than acting as a closed system, it appears intended to sit on top of a standard mini PC setup, with future updates planned to expand functionality over time.
Beyond that, the Retro X5 supports expandable memory and storage, multiple display outputs, and modern connectivity, reinforcing its positioning as a flexible mini PC rather than a single-purpose retro console.
A familiar direction for mini PCs
Compact PCs have quietly become far more capable in recent years. Having seen first-hand how well an Acemagic mini PC performs as an everyday system, it’s clear this category is no longer limited to basic tasks or novelty use cases.
The Retro X5 seems to be aiming for that same balance: small form factor, enough power for modern gaming and productivity, and a presentation that nods to classic hardware without being locked to it.
No pricing or release date has been announced yet, but the Retro X5 is an interesting example of how retro gaming aesthetics continue to blend with increasingly capable mini PC hardware. Keep an eye on the Acemagic website for updates.
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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.
