Why not share my opinion on my retro handheld device, even though I don’t normally review tech toys?
AtGames’ ‘Arcade Gamer Portable,’ which is a pocket-sized handheld with over 30 Sega Game Gear and Master System games, has obviously cut back on translation services in order to save money. But what’s the name of this product? I’d call it the Sega Master Gear as this pocket-sized portable is packed with over 30 Sega Game Gear & Master System games.
This cute little blast from my past was purchased to be used on my upcoming vacation (both for car trips and while abroad) as well as introduce my children the world of handheld gaming. It can be intimidating to use the sixteen buttons on the Xbox controller at first. I decided to begin with the basics to introduce my daughters to gaming. Sometimes, simple games with just two buttons and a jump or action button are enough.
It is easy to use as there are minimal controls and buttons. You can also plug in headphones or directly into your television (provided you have the cable). The games are good for such a small handheld, and cost around PS1.20 per game. It is also cheaper than many licensed iPhone games. For PS35, you can get a Nintendo DS and games. This would be a much better investment. The music and sound bring back memories of the early days of gaming with chip tunes. This is the game for you if you like any of the games listed below.
games include:
- Alex Kidd and the High Tech World
- Alex Kidd and Miracle World
- Alex Kidd – The Lost Stars
- Assault City
- Astro Warrior
- Aztec Adventure
- Baku Baku Animal
- Bomber Raid
- Columns
- Dr Robotnik Mean hello88 Bean Machine
- Dragon Crystal
- Ecco: the Tides of Time
- Fantasy Zone
- Fantasy Zone II (Opa Opa)
- Gain Ground
- Global Defence
- Golden Axe
- Kung Fu Kid
- Penguin Land
- Putt and Putter
- Quartet
- Roster the Shooting Star
- Snail Maze
- Sonic Drift 2
- Sonic Chaos
- Sonic Spinball
- Sonic Triple Trouble
- Super Columns
- Tails Adventure
- The Ninja
If you don’t care about games, a used DS is a better option. However, you will have to deal with the additional complications of the handheld (such as more buttons, a double screen, and a stylus).
The price is the main downside, since it would make a wonderful stocking stuffer if the game was less than ten pounds. Other negatives include the different screen sizes in the games and the absence of a save function. There were codes for many of the older games that allowed you to skip levels. If you’re eager to complete the game, you can look them up online.
The ‘arcade games portable’ is a fun way to pass the time on long car trips, during holidays, and even for a trip down memory lane. But for me, it’s a stepping stone for my children as they prepare for Xbox mastery. It might be worth buying if it’s on sale. If you prefer a handheld gaming device, you should stick to the DS.