best retro gaming consoles you can still buy new in 2025

this thing plays game boy, game boy color, and game boy advance carts natively with an insanely sharp display. the build quality is premium and it feels like a luxury device.

tiny little emulation handheld that fits in your pocket and runs everything up to ps1. the price point is wild for what you get, honestly hard to beat.

runs android so you get a ton of flexibility with emulators. handles gamecube and ps2 games surprisingly well for a handheld this size.

plays turbografx-16 and pc engine hucard and cd games. if you're a collector of those systems this is basically the ultimate way to play them on modern tvs.

If you’re a fan of SEGA classics, the Genesis Mini 2 is a must-have! It’s packed with over 60 games, including some lesser-known gems that’ll take you back to the 90s. Plus, the sleek design is a nice nod to the original, making it a perfect addition to any retro gaming setup!

Okay, hear me out—this is technically a subscription, but it’s like having a bunch of retro consoles in your pocket! With the Expansion Pack, you get access to a ton of classic NES and SNES games, plus some N64 titles. It’s an affordable way to dive into nostalgia without needing a million cartridges!

The PlayStation Classic is a charming little console that’s perfect for reliving the glory days of the original PlayStation. It comes pre-loaded with 20 iconic games like Final Fantasy VII and Tekken 3, though I wish they had included a few more popular titles. Still, it’s great for a quick trip down memory lane!

This smaller version of the TurboGrafx-16 is a hidden gem in the retro world. It may not have the same fame as its competitors, but it boasts a fantastic library with classics like Bonk’s Adventure and Castlevania: Rondo of Blood. If you’re looking for something a little different, this console is totally worth checking out!