The Evercade Nexus is a fascinating addition to the retro gaming landscape, particularly appealing to those of us nostalgic for the golden age of gaming. Here’s a consolidated overview of its features, pros, and cons based on the review:
Overview
The Evercade Nexus builds on the company’s commitment to retro gaming, providing modern features while offering a patina of nostalgia with its cartridge-based games and color manuals. The console is positioned as a more substantial alternative to previous Evercade models, most notably due to its larger screen and additional controls.
Screen
- Size and Resolution: The Nexus boasts a 5.89-inch display, which is bigger than its predecessor’s 4.3-inch screen, but has a slightly lower pixel density (167ppi).
- Brightness and Color: The screen is described as bright and colorful, suitable for retro games which generally don’t require high-resolution details.
- Issues: Some users noted that the screen sits slightly awkwardly, which could obscure display pixels when viewed at certain angles.
Controls
- Dual Thumbsticks: The addition of dual thumbsticks signals a shift towards supporting more complex games, including titles like Banjo-Kazooie and upcoming Doom. However, some games do not yet support twin-stick controls.
- Button Layout: The console’s button arrangement can feel cramped, especially with the thumbsticks positioned lower, leading to discomfort during prolonged play.
Audio and Battery
- Speakers: The Nexus features dual forward-firing speakers, enhancing audio quality; a headphone jack and Bluetooth support remain.
- Light Indicator: The console has a bright LED logo that functions as a charging indicator but can be dimmed.
Design and Portability
- Size: The Nexus is bulkier than its predecessors, making it less portable and potentially unwieldy for gaming on the go.
- Comfort: Users noted that while it feels substantial, it could become uncomfortable during extended gaming sessions.
Unique Features
- TATE Mode: A notable aesthetic is the TATE mode, allowing easy switching to a portrait view for specific games, which has improved ergonomics on this model compared to predecessors.
Final Thoughts
While the Evercade Nexus is commendable for its advancements in the retro gaming realm, it does come with some drawbacks regarding size and comfort. It’s likely to appeal to dedicated fans of the Evercade ecosystem who appreciate the nostalgia of cartridge-based gaming but may not be for everyone, especially those who prefer smaller, more portable devices.
Release Date: October 30, 2026
Price: $199.99/£169.99
Pre-order link: Evercade Nexus
