Retroid Pocket Nova

Meet the Retroid Pocket Nova, Retroid’s latest Android handheld. It’s slightly more compact than the Retroid Pocket 6, mbut don’t be fooled by its size. Under the bonnet, we find the same powerful Qualcomm QCS8550 (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 without a 5G modem) that we’ve come to know from the Pocket Flip 2. That means impressive performance, packed into a more manageable size.

The absolute highlight is the new 4.5-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 1280 × 960 and a 120Hz refresh rate. Thanks to the 4:3 aspect ratio, retro games look fantastic, whilst Android games benefit from the smooth 120Hz panel. Add to that Hall-effect sticks, active cooling and video output via USB-C, and you have a handheld that’s ready for use both at home and on the go.

Key features

4.5-inch AMOLED 120Hz display

The screen is perhaps the biggest reason to choose the Nova. The 4.5-inch AMOLED panel delivers deep blacks, vibrant colours and a resolution of 1280 × 960. Thanks to its 4:3 aspect ratio, this is one of the best screens for retro gaming, whilst the 120Hz refresh rate makes Android games and the interface wonderfully smooth.

Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 performance

The Qualcomm QCS8550 is based on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and offers more than enough power for virtually any game you might want to play on an Android handheld. Think PlayStation 2, GameCube, Wii, Nintendo 3DS and even a large number of Nintendo Switch games.

Android 13

The Retroid Pocket Nova runs on Android, giving you direct access to the Google Play Store. Install your favourite emulators, play Android games or use cloud gaming via Xbox Cloud Gaming, Steam Link, Moonlight or GeForce NOW.

Dual Hall-effect sticks

The Hall-effect sticks use magnetic sensors, making them more accurate and less prone to stick drift. Ideal for long gaming sessions and modern consoles.

Dock-ready

Like virtually all recent Retroid handhelds, the Pocket Nova also supports video output via USB-C. Pop it into a compatible dock, connect it to your television or monitor, and pair a couple of Bluetooth controllers. This transforms the Nova into a compact games console for a fun evening of couch co-op or multiplayer.

Why this model is special

The Pocket Nova sits right between the Pocket Mini and the Pocket 6. You get virtually the same performance as the larger models, but in a more compact device with a stunning 4:3 AMOLED screen. This is a huge plus, particularly for retro gamers, as many classic consoles were originally designed for this aspect ratio.

In terms of performance, you’re more than sorted for the time being. Everything up to and including the Dreamcast, PSP, Sega Saturn, PlayStation 2 and GameCube runs superbly. Many Wii games and Nintendo 3DS titles are also perfectly playable. You can also play a large part of the Nintendo Switch library, although this depends on the emulator and the game itself. So don’t expect every Switch game to run perfectly, but the capabilities are impressive for a handheld of this size.

What you get

• Retroid Pocket Nova -handheld

The accessories included may vary depending on the bundle. Only add extra items here if they are included in the RetroGear delivery, such as a USB-C cable, screen protector or storage case.

Specifications

• Model: Retroid Pocket Nova
• Operating system: Android 13
• Processor: Qualcomm QCS8550 (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 platform)
• GPU: Adreno 740
• RAM: 8 GB or 12 GB LPDDR5X (depending on model)
• Internal storage: 128 GB UFS 3.1
• Expandable: microSD
• Screen: 4.5-inch AMOLED
• Resolution: 1280 × 960 pixels
• Aspect ratio: 4:3
• Refresh rate: 120 Hz
• Controls: Hall-effect sticks, analogue triggers, gyroscope
• Cooling: Active cooling
• Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 7
• Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.3
• Video output: USB-C DisplayPort
• Audio: Stereo speakers
• Headphone socket: 3,5 mm
• Battery: 5000 mAh
• Weight: 255 grams

Frequently asked questions

Is the Pocket Nova powerful enough for the PS2 and GameCube?
Yes. Thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2-class chipset, most of the PS2 and GameCube games run brilliantly.

Can the Pocket Nova emulate the Nintendo Switch?
Yes, many light and medium-weight Switch games are playable. Do bear in mind, however, that Switch emulation depends heavily on the emulator used and the game itself.

What is the difference between this and the Retroid Pocket 6?
The Pocket Nova is more compact and features a 4.5-inch 4:3 AMOLED screen. Its performance is very similar to that of the Pocket 6, w, meaning you’ll hardly have to compromise on emulation power. The choice between the two models mainly comes down to screen size and form factor.

Why does the Nova have a 4:3 screen?
Many retro consoles, such as the SNES, PlayStation 1, Nintendo 64 and Dreamcast, were designed for a 4:3 aspect ratio. As a result, these systems make full use of the screen without any distortion or large black bars.

Can I play Android games?
Yes. You can download and play thousands of Android games via the Google Play Store. Cloud gaming via Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce NOW, Moonlight and Steam Link is also supported.

Can I connect the Pocket Nova to my television?
Yes. You can connect the Nova to a compatible dock, monitor or television via USB-C DisplayPort. Combined with Bluetooth controllers, this is an ideal solution for multiplayer gaming on the sofa.

Why buy from RetroGear

At RetroGear, we’re big fans of handhelds that combine performance with good build quality. The Retroid Pocket Nova does exactly that. It offers virtually the same power as the larger Retroid models, but in a more compact format with what is perhaps the finest 4:3 AMOLED screen we’ve seen to date.

Are you looking for an Android handheld that lets you play everything from NES to PlayStation 2, GameCube, Wii and a large part of the Nintendo Switch library? Then the Retroid Pocket Nova is undoubtedly one of the best choices available right now.