Anbernic is reportedly preparing two new retro gaming handhelds that could appeal strongly to fans of Nintendo’s classic dual-screen systems. According to an unconfirmed leak, the company is working on devices that take inspiration from the Nintendo 2DS and Nintendo 3DS, but with larger custom displays and modern hardware upgrades.
Anbernic has already introduced several handheld gaming devices this year, including the PS Vita-style RG Vita and RG Vita Pro, along with the RG Rotate, which features a swiveling screen. However, the company may still have more devices planned, and its next projects could be among its most interesting yet.
The first rumored device is said to be called the Anbernic RG 2DS. As the name suggests, it is expected to be inspired by the Nintendo 2DS, the wedge-shaped dual-screen handheld released in 2013 as part of the Nintendo 3DS family. Unlike the folding 3DS and 2DS XL models, the original 2DS used a flat, hinge-free design, making it more durable and simple.
The Anbernic RG 2DS is rumored to follow a similar design approach, but with significantly upgraded display hardware. Reports claim it will feature a custom main screen with a 1600 × 900 resolution, paired with a secondary 400 × 240 display. That would be a major jump over Nintendo’s original dual-screen handheld displays, especially for users interested in retro game emulation with sharper visuals and more screen space.
While the design may borrow heavily from the Nintendo 2DS concept, the RG 2DS is expected to include more modern features. These could include USB-C charging, improved speakers, a larger battery, a more powerful processor, and either Android or Linux as the operating system. If accurate, this would make it far more capable than the original Nintendo hardware it appears to be inspired by.
The second rumored device is reportedly called the Anbernic RG 3DS. This model is expected to take inspiration from the Nintendo 3DS and use a clamshell design with two displays. For many retro handheld fans, this could be the more exciting of the two, as folding dual-screen devices remain relatively rare in the modern emulation market.
The RG 3DS is rumored to feature a custom main display with a 5:3 aspect ratio and a 1600 × 900 resolution. Like the RG 2DS, it is also expected to include a secondary 400 × 240 display. However, one major feature from the original Nintendo 3DS is reportedly missing: glasses-free 3D. There is also no confirmation yet on whether the device will include cameras like Nintendo’s original model.
Even without 3D support, the Anbernic RG 3DS could still attract attention if it offers strong performance, good battery life, comfortable controls, and proper dual-screen software support. With better RAM, faster storage, and a modern chipset, it could become a compelling option for players who want a portable device designed around classic dual-screen gaming experiences.
At the moment, there is no confirmed release date for either the Anbernic RG 2DS or Anbernic RG 3DS. Since the information comes from unofficial reports, the final names, specifications, and designs could still change before launch. Still, the idea of Anbernic building modern handhelds inspired by the Nintendo 2DS and 3DS is likely to generate plenty of excitement among retro gaming fans.
If these rumors prove accurate, Anbernic may be preparing some of its most nostalgic handheld gaming devices yet. With larger custom displays, updated hardware, and familiar dual-screen form factors, the RG 2DS and RG 3DS could become standout options in the growing retro handheld market.
