In a world where handheld gaming has evolved dramatically over the years, its hard to imagine the days when players were limited to inserting AA batteries into a Game Boy and desperately hoping their save files would remain intact. Fast forward through the eras of the PlayStation Portable (PSP) and the Nintendo Switch, and we now find ourselves surrounded by an array of sleek, cloud-connected gaming consoles that seem capable of performing a multitude of tasks, including potentially filing your taxes if you asked nicely. Stepping onto the scene amidst this crowded landscape is the Abxylute One Pro, a device that exudes confidence, as if it holds secrets that its competitors do not. Spoiler alert: it actually does.

The One Pro doesnt aim to outpace robust gaming devices like the Steam Deck nor does it strive to push frame rates to their limits like the ROG Ally. Instead, it offers something more focused and, quite frankly, much more entertaining. This handheld console recognizes that the essence of gaming isn't always about sheer performance. Sometimes, its about immersing oneself in the retro joy of gaming, emulating classic PlayStation 2 titles flawlessly, all while ensuring that your hands remain comfortable and your wallet doesnt take a significant hit.

Designed by Abxylute, the One Pro boasts a powerful MediaTek Genio 510 processor, which offers a notable upgrade over the original Abxylute model. While the Genio 510 may not be a household name like Qualcomms Snapdragon, it packs quite a punch. Featuring dual Cortex-A78 cores along with four Cortex-A55 cores, this chipset is capable of achieving 60 frames per second on PS2 emulationan ideal performance level for most classic titles. Coupled with 4GB of LPDDR4 RAM and 64GB of internal storage (expandable up to an impressive 2TB), the One Pro stands ready to manage extensive retro game libraries, light Android multitasking, and mobile gaming with ease.

Running on Android 13, the device offers seamless access to the Google Play Store, ensuring that users have all the necessary tools at their disposal. Want emulators? You got it. Interested in remote play for Steam, PS5, or Xbox? Absolutely. Have a penchant for mobile games and streaming? The One Pro covers all those bases as welltruly abxylutely (get it?). What makes this device particularly appealing is how it has been thoughtfully designed for gamers who value control fidelity.

One of the standout features of the One Pro is its joysticks. Unlike the mini thumbsticks that often come with cheaper handheld devices or Joy-Con replicas, the One Pro is equipped with full-sized capacitive digital joysticks. This thoughtful design choice translates to better accuracy, reduced drift, and a familiar feel reminiscent of an Xbox controllers muscle memory. For a device of its size, this premium touch is surprisingly impressive, significantly enhancing the gameplay experienceespecially when aiming for a perfect landing in Tony Hawk or lining up a sniper shot in the iconic Metal Gear Solid 3.

On the display front, users can expect a 7-inch 1080p LTPS screen with a 60Hz refresh rate. While it may not feature OLED technology, the visual quality is commendable for its price point, offering vibrant colors and smooth motion, making it a joy to behold. The design itself sports a semi-transparent finish that harkens back to the late 1990s, almost as if it stepped out of a ToysRUs catalog. Yet, this nostalgic aesthetic works well, achieving a retro vibe without crossing the line into cosplay territory.

Additional features include touchscreen mapping tools, extensive controller customization options, and even 4K video output, making it easy to connect the One Pro to a TV or a set of wild AR glasses for an enhanced gaming experience. Connectivity options are robust, comprising Wi-Fi 5 with MU-MIMO technology to prevent game streaming interruptions, Bluetooth support, and USB-C for charging or docking purposes. The 5,200mAh battery is designed to provide up to 8 hours of usean optimal duration that strikes a good balance between not being overly long and still allowing for extended sessions during long flights or relaxed weekends.

In terms of size, the One Pro measures 250mm x 115mm x 30mm and weighs 430 grams. This weight makes it substantial enough to feel durable while avoiding the risk of causing wrist strain during extended play. The unit remains compact, comparable to other devices like the Nintendo Switch Lite or the Legion Go S, making it an excellent choice for gaming on the go. While the One Pro doesnt come with a protective case, users can purchase a soft-shell carry case from Abxylutes website for a reasonable price. These cases feature mesh pockets for storing accessories like charging cables and MicroSD cards, adding practicality to portability.

The Kickstarter campaign for the Abxylute One Pro launched on March 27, with early bird pricing set at an attractive $209, while the full retail price will be $249. Shipping is expected to commence in mid-to-late May, which is just around the corner. Given the current tariff-related tensions between the US and China, its likely many eager gamers will be hoping for timely delivery.