MagicX Teases a Nintendo 2DS-Style Retro Handheld With Two Price Options
MagicX is preparing a new retro gaming handheld, and its early concept is already drawing attention for one obvious reason: it looks heavily inspired by the Nintendo 2DS. While the device is not yet a finished product, the company is openly asking the gaming community for feedback before finalizing the design, features, and pricing.
The move comes at an interesting time for the retro handheld gaming market. MagicX says the space has become crowded, with many manufacturers releasing devices that look and feel very similar. From compact Android handhelds to budget emulation consoles, buyers now have more options than ever, but fewer products truly stand out. With this new model, MagicX appears to be testing whether a more distinctive form factor can help it attract players looking for something different.
According to the current concept, the unnamed MagicX handheld may launch in two versions. The more affordable model is expected to use the MediaTek Helio G99 processor and could be priced at around $125. A more powerful version is planned with the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chip and a higher price of about $165.
The higher-end version would also offer better memory and storage. MagicX is considering 3 GB of RAM and 32 GB of UFS storage for the base model, while the upgraded edition would increase that to 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of UFS storage. Both versions are expected to include active cooling, which could help maintain better performance during longer gaming sessions.
The display is also an important part of the concept. MagicX is planning a 5-inch screen with a 768 × 1,024 resolution. That taller display format could work well for certain retro systems, especially handheld and vertical-style games, depending on software support and scaling options.
What makes the device most noticeable, however, is its shape. The concept image shows a flat, wedge-like handheld design that closely resembles Nintendo’s 2DS, rather than the more common horizontal handheld layout used by many retro gaming devices. This could give the MagicX handheld a more nostalgic feel while also offering a comfortable grip for players who prefer a slab-style design.
For now, MagicX has not confirmed whether the final product will look exactly like the concept. The company is actively collecting user opinions, especially about whether the proposed prices are attractive and what features would make the handheld more competitive.
That feedback could play a major role in the final design. In a market filled with Android gaming handhelds, retro emulation consoles, and budget portable gaming devices, MagicX will need more than familiar hardware to stand out. A unique design, strong performance, reliable cooling, good controls, and fair pricing could make this upcoming handheld one to watch.
If MagicX can balance affordability with capable hardware, its Nintendo 2DS-style retro handheld may appeal to gamers who want a fresh alternative in an increasingly crowded portable gaming market.
