Emulation Success OR Clone Failure? Hyperkin Retron GX Review

In this episode, we unbox and test out the Hyperkin RetroN GX, a software-based clone video game console designed to play TurboGrafx and PC Engine games.

The TurboGrafx-16 (TG-16) / PC Engine is one of the best retro consoles you've probably never played—but getting a crisp, modern signal from the original hardware is a major headache (and expensive!). The official Minis are hard to find and pricey, so what’s a retro gamer to do?

Enter the Hyperkin Retron GX!

Order from CastlemaniaGames at https://castlemaniagames.com/products/retron-gx-retro-hd-gaming-console?ref=RoXolid

Order from Hyperkin at
https://collabs.shop/w3m3bj

Designed to let you play your original TG-16/PC Engine HuCards on any modern HDMI TV, it’s an affordable, all-in-one solution that includes everything you need right in the box.

Hyperkin has had a mixed history with its clone systems, from fantastic to controversial. Early beta samples of the RetroN GX were sent to reviewers, and the word on the street was that this unit was not ready for prime time. As a reviewer, I do not watch videos from others until after I have completed my review, as to not taint my opinion. But having seen titles and thumbnails, I went into this review expecting the worst.

👍 Key Features:

- Native HuCard Support: Plays original TG-16 and PC Engine games (all regions).
- Modern Video Out: Simple, direct HDMI connection.
- Emulation/Dump System: Utilizes emulation after dumping the game to memory for stable play.
- Quality of Life: Features like Save States, Rewind, and Quick Save/Load.
- Controller Ports: Includes classic TG-16 ports and modern USB ports for other controllers.
- USB-C Power: Uses the modern standard—nice to see!
- 4:3/16:9 Switch: Select the aspect ratio you prefer (these games were designed for 4:3)
- Micro USB Card: Allows for firmware updates (and maybe hacking?)

Testing:
I connected the RetroN GX up to my AVerMedia Live Gamer ULTRA S GC553Pro capture device, connected the power, and we were off to the races. The first game I fired up was one I was very familiar with, Bonk's Adventure. I've played this game more than probably any other title on the system, so I knew how it should look and play. I will say I thought the palette was a bit oversaturated, especially the reds. I won't say it's game-ruining, but I did notice.

One common issue with NES clone systems, specifically HDMI-equipped systems, is that the audio can suffer from what is known as a reverse duty cycle issue. When you listen to the coins in Super Mario Bros, you can hear it instantly and know it isn't right. Hyperkin's own RetroN HD series of systems suffers from this issue. I was pleased to hear the audio did not have any such issues, and through all my game testing played properly.

Testing out controllers was mostly a good experience. I'm familiar with the included controller, as I have reviewed it in the past and found it to be capable. The 10-foot-long controller cord is greatly appreciated, as I can set the system in my gaming storage and play from my desk without an issue. The fact that the system also includes USB ports in addition to the standard TurboGrafx16 controller ports was nice, as it let me test out the wireless 8BitDo controller for the TurboGrafx16 Mini and the wired controller from that system as well. I definitely felt some lag on the 8BitDo controller, and I couldn't navigate the function menus, which was weird. The USB controller from the TG16 Mini, however, worked without a problem.

Why It RoX:
- Plays TurboGrafx 16 And PC Engine games
- HDMI Output
- USB and TG16 Controller Ports
- 4:3/16:9 aspect ratio switch
- Save States and Rewind features
- Screen filters
- Under $100

What could be improved:
- Colors are a bit oversaturated
- Lag is noticeable with wireless controller
- Some compatibility issues with 8BitDo Controller
- I'd prefer a hardware-based solution over software

Should You Buy One?
While it is an emulation-based system, for the price, the Retron GX offers a user-friendly entry point into the TurboGrafx-16 and PC Engine library. The colors are vibrant, the audio is clean, and it played my entire collection. I know and respect most of those who got early samples of the RetroN GX, & will watch their reviews now that mine is complete. I will say that I did not experience problems like their titles and thumbnails indicated, which tells me Hyperkin took that feedback seriously and improved the system. As such I'd say this is more of an emulation success than clone failure.

Is it a perfect system? No. Is it an entryway to help get your foot in the door if you’ve been on the fence about collecting for this underrated system? Yes. The RetroN GX provides a way to dip your toes into the ecosystem and see if it's for you.

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