Introducing the RetroDeck: A Gaming Console for Retro and PC Games

by Arthur Herring
in $$$, PC, XBOX
on 29 August 2024

A new gaming console called RetroDeck has recently launched on IndieGogo, aiming to provide an easy and user-friendly way for gamers to enjoy retro games and PC titles. Developed by the team behind the popular EmuDeck software, RetroDeck comes preinstalled with the EmuDeck suite, allowing users to play their favorite retro games from the comfort of their couch.

But RetroDeck offers more than just retro gaming. It also supports games from popular PC launchers, such as Steam, through the Linux-based Bazzite OS. This versatile console aims to provide a console-like gaming experience to non-tech-savvy individuals who simply want to buy and play.

DrakoonDorise, the project lead of RetroDeck, explained the motivation behind the console: “Getting a new PC can be a hurdle if you’re not tech-savvy. I’ve been using an ITX build as my gaming rig for so long, trying to find that console-like experience. Now we can get that with Bazzite.”

RetroDeck offers two configurations: the EM1 and the EM2. The EM1, priced at $365 in the early bird offer, features an Intel N97-based system with 8GB of RAM. This configuration is suitable for running games like Hades at a smooth 60 fps and emulating systems up to the PS2/Wii era. On the other hand, the EM2, priced at $676, offers an overclocked Radeon 760M GPU, 16GB of RAM, and support for high-end games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Returnal. It even supports PS3 and Xbox 360 emulators.

Both configurations come with 512GB of storage, which can be expanded with external USB hard drives. The console also includes a Gamesir wireless controller, providing a seamless gaming experience. The design of RetroDeck, with its 8.6-inch square case and USB ports resembling the Sega Dreamcast, pays homage to retro gaming consoles.

While RetroDeck is currently in the prototype stage, the IndieGogo campaign aims to ship the consoles by December. DragoonDorise emphasizes that this project is more of a fun hobby than a business venture, stating, “I’m doing this because I think it is a fun project and I thought people would like it.”

With nearly $13,000 in pledges within 24 hours, RetroDeck has garnered significant interest from retro gaming enthusiasts. DragoonDorise assures supporters that the development of RetroDeck Machines will not hinder the progress of EmuDeck software; in fact, it is expected to bring more features to the software.

RetroDeck offers an exciting opportunity for gamers to relive the nostalgia of retro gaming while enjoying the convenience of modern PC gaming. Whether you’re a retro enthusiast or someone looking for a no-hassle gaming experience, RetroDeck could be the perfect console for you.

– The RetroDeck console is compatible with popular PC launchers such as Steam, allowing users to play modern PC games in addition to retro games.
– The RetroDeck is powered by the Linux-based Bazzite OS, providing a user-friendly interface for non-tech-savvy individuals.
– The console comes in two configurations: the EM1 and the EM2. The EM1 is suitable for running retro games and emulating systems up to the PS2/Wii era, while the EM2 offers support for high-end games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Returnal, as well as PS3 and Xbox 360 emulators.
– Both configurations come with 512GB of storage, expandable with external USB hard drives.
– The RetroDeck console features a Gamesir wireless controller for a seamless gaming experience.
– The console’s design pays homage to retro gaming consoles, with an 8.6-inch square case and USB ports resembling the Sega Dreamcast.
– The IndieGogo campaign aims to ship the consoles by December.
– The RetroDeck is a passion project for the project lead, DragoonDorise, who sees it as a fun hobby rather than a business venture.
– RetroDeck has received significant interest from retro gaming enthusiasts, with nearly $13,000 in pledges within 24 hours.

Key questions and answers:
1. What makes RetroDeck different from other gaming consoles?
RetroDeck stands out by offering both retro game compatibility and support for modern PC games through popular launchers like Steam. It provides a console-like gaming experience with a user-friendly interface.

2. Can the RetroDeck be used by non-tech-savvy individuals?
Yes, the RetroDeck is specifically designed to be user-friendly for individuals who may not be technologically inclined. The Linux-based Bazzite OS ensures a seamless and hassle-free gaming experience.

3. What games can be played on the RetroDeck?
The RetroDeck supports a wide range of games, from retro titles to high-end modern games. The EM1 configuration is suitable for running retro games and emulating systems up to the PS2/Wii era, while the EM2 configuration offers support for high-end games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Returnal, as well as PS3 and Xbox 360 emulators.

Key challenges or controversies:
One potential challenge or controversy associated with the RetroDeck is the feasibility of shipping the consoles by December, as the IndieGogo campaign aims to do. Meeting production and shipping timelines can often be difficult for crowdfunding projects, so there may be delays in delivery.

Advantages:
– Offers compatibility with both retro games and modern PC games.
– User-friendly interface for non-tech-savvy individuals.
– Two configurations to choose from, catering to different gaming preferences.
– Expandable storage options.
– Includes a wireless controller for a seamless gaming experience.
– Design pays homage to retro gaming consoles.

Disadvantages:
– Limited information available about the RetroDeck’s performance and long-term reliability.
– Being in the prototype stage, potential risks and issues may arise during the production process.
– Potential delays in shipping and delivery.