MagicX Zero 40 Brings DS Emulation to a Vertical Screen
If you're into retro handheld gaming, you might want to keep your eyes on the upcoming MagicX Zero 40. Priced at just $75, this compact console isn’t packing flagship specs, but it’s got something special: a vertical touchscreen that makes it a perfect fit for Nintendo DS emulation and old-school arcade titles.
Most handheld consoles these days come with wide displays, which can be a problem when trying to emulate the Nintendo DS, a device that originally featured two separate 4:3 screens. The MagicX Zero 40 solves that by flipping things around, literally. It has a 4-inch vertical IPS display with a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels, which closely mimics the look of two stacked DS screens. Add a black bar in the middle, and you’re practically looking at two classic displays without needing an actual clamshell design.
While the hardware might not be mind-blowing, it’s definitely capable. Inside, the Zero 40 runs on a 1.8GHz quad-core Cortex-A53 processor, with 2GB of RAM, and PowerVR GE8300 graphics. Connectivity includes WiFi 4 and Bluetooth 4.2, and storage can be expanded with a microSD card, up to 512GB. The device also has stereo speakers, vibration feedback, and a familiar set of game controls: D-Pad, action buttons, shoulder triggers, and an analog stick.
Earlier this year, MagicX teased the handheld in action, showing off its Nintendo DS performance. But the fun doesn’t stop there. Recently, the company posted another video featuring 30 classic arcade games that were designed for vertical displays. That makes the Zero 40 not just a niche DS emulator, but a go-to device for fans of vertical shooters and other tall-format retro titles.
Physically, it’s quite pocket-friendly too. The unit measures 136 x 105 x 17mm and weighs around 182 grams, about the same as a modern smartphone. Battery life clocks in at around 7 hours, thanks to a 4300 mAh battery, which is more than enough for a nostalgic gaming session or two.
For gamers who love the classics and want a device that embraces a vertical form factor, the MagicX Zero 40 could be the quirky handheld you didn’t know you needed.
(via MagicX)
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