Anbernic RG Vita Hands-On Confirms Key Specs and PlayStation 2 Emulation Capability

Anbernic has lifted the veil on its upcoming RG Vita handheld gaming device through a comprehensive hands-on video, confirming several key specifications and demonstrating PlayStation 2 emulation capabilities. The device, inspired by Sony's PlayStation Vita design language, represents a notable leap in portable emulation hardware when compared to Anbernic's previous offerings.

The RG Vita centers around a 5.46-inch IPS touchscreen display operating at 1280×720 resolution—a significant upgrade over the original Vita's 960×544 OLED panel. While display technology specifics remain unconfirmed, the HD resolution provides 70% more pixels than Sony's 2011 handheld. Connectivity features include Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) for wireless transfers and online gameplay, Bluetooth 5.0 for peripheral support, a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a microSD card slot for storage expansion. These specifications position the RG Vita above Anbernic's current flagship RG477V model ($269.99 on Amazon), which lacks Bluetooth and features a smaller display.

Crucially, the demonstration showcases the device running PlayStation 2 titles—a demanding emulation feat rarely achieved in handhelds under $300. Anbernic claims compatibility with multiple console generations including PlayStation Vita, PlayStation 2, PSP, Nintendo 3DS, Wii, PlayStation 1, SEGA Saturn, and Nintendo 64. Android game compatibility extends to titles like Genshin Impact and Honor of Kings, while PC streaming functionality was demonstrated with Forza Horizon 5. The device also supports display casting to external monitors and multiplayer controller pairing, suggesting robust versatility beyond standalone play.

When compared to mainstream alternatives, the RG Vita's PS2 emulation capability potentially outperforms budget handhelds like the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro ($199) that struggle with GameCube titles, though final performance assessment requires confirmation of the unannounced processor and RAM specifications. Against its spiritual predecessor, Sony's original Vita, the RG Vita offers broader format support but lacks access to the PlayStation Store's native Vita library. The demonstration video on Anbernic's YouTube channel suggests optimization for 3D titles, though 2D purists might prefer Anbernic's vertical-oriented RG35XX series for classic gaming.

This device targets emulation enthusiasts seeking PlayStation 2 compatibility in a portable form factor, plus Android gamers wanting a dedicated controller experience. The expanded screen and resolution make it suitable for PSP and Vita titles that benefit from widescreen displays. However, buyers should note that complex emulation like PS2 and Wii often requires performance compromises; frame rate stability remains unverified without full hardware specifications.

Anbernic indicates both the RG Vita and premium RG Vita Pro variant will launch after Chinese New Year (late February 2026), with pricing yet to be disclosed. Given the RG477V's $270 price point and the RG Vita's upgraded display and features, expect a $250-$300 range. Those requiring immediate alternatives can consider the RG477V, though its MediaTek MT8781 chipset cannot handle PS2 emulation—making the RG Vita potentially the most capable PlayStation 2-compatible handheld under $300 if performance claims hold true.