Sliiiiiide to the left, Sliiiiiide to the right. Now freeze! Everybody. Shut. Your. Clams!… I tried making this Cha Cha Slide reference in our media team group chat, and no one laughed, so I am seeing if I can go 1 for 2 with it. I have had the RG Slide in my possession for a week and thought I’d give my thoughts on it after some time with it.

Anbernic RG Slide First Impressions

Thickness compared to the Retroid Flip 2

This thing is so heavy and thick. It really should have been the device called the brick hammer, because wow! I didn’t expect that after seeing the promo videos, and after a week, I still feel the same way.

At first, I found it extremely uncomfortable to use and couldn’t find a good way to hold it. The weight was so cumbersome, too. Luckily, after a week, it did get better, but it’s still not the most comfortable device I own. I got the white color, and it looks very nice. The plastic is sort of a matte feeling, and I like the feel of it.

I know the screen is not OLED, but it still looks great. With the device being bigger than expected, that means the screen gets to be bigger and shinier, and shine it does. It was a joy seeing my retro games on this thing.

Buttons and Controls

The buttons are something that needs to be talked about on this thing. They are good. The D-pad is fantastic, and I feel like I can pivot on it with such ease; it feels fantastic.

After playing so much on my Retroid devices, some full-sized buttons felt great! It’s anbernic… they always nail the buttons and they shine here.

The sticks feel pretty good, even with being recessed into the device. My issue with them is that I couldn’t find a comfortable way to use both of them, so twin-stick shooters may be a bit difficult.

I am usually a fan of stacked shoulder buttons, but these work very well. The one comfortable thing about the device for me is for sure the placement of the shoulder buttons. My fingers naturally rested on them and could press them with ease.

Playing Games

So when I see the RG Slide, I think of the PSP Go. The issue? The aspect ratio of this screen is going to give you black bars. I was able to play my RPGs at x4, but the black bars were a bit distracting.

However, PS1 was a real joy to play on this one. With the great D-pad, I had a good time playing some of my favorite platformers (Croc anyone?…anyone?). The slide function of this device is very, very satisfying. It felt great to slide it closed and put it in my pocket, and then slide it open. My wife thought it was hysterical about 3/4s of the time.

Anbernic RG Slide: Final Thoughts

Honestly, this device is not for me, and that is okay. I do need to praise Anbernic for their innovation and for trying new things. I love the risk, and I know some people will enjoy it, and I hope it is successful so we can see more fun variety in the space.

The screen, buttons, and slide function all shine, but for me, the thickness and weight are too much to overlook. Performance is great as well! If you want your own, get yours below. Want a different opinion? Check out our review and first impressions! Get your own at the links below.

Anbernic RG Slide (Direct) Anbernic RG Slide (AliExpress) Anbernic RG Slide (AliExpress – alternative link)

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