Anbernic's RG DDS demo leads with PS4 emulation

Anbernic has a new RG DDS video out, and it follows our earlier Azahar and Anbernic coverage. In Part 1 of a gameplay showcase posted to Anbernic's YouTube channel on October 26, the dual-screen clamshell leads not with 3DS games but with PlayStation 4 emulation.

What the demo shows

The video opens with Activision's 2015 Transformers: Devastation running as a PS4 title via Bachata S4. According to Retro Handhelds, the frame counter on the bottom screen moves between 53 and 60 fps during that segment. That's one game in a promo video, not a PS4 compatibility list, and Anbernic hasn't published broader PS4 performance data.

Next comes 3DS emulation via AzaharPlus: Nintendogs + Cats at 3x resolution to show off stylus and microphone input, then a short stretch of Pokémon Omega Ruby. Later, two players run wireless Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS multiplayer, also at 3x via AzaharPlus.

The video ends with DS emulation in melonDS. Golden Sun: Dark Dawn and Contra 4 (shown under its Japanese title, Contra: Dual Spirits) run at 5x resolution, with the top screen sized to match the bottom one and pillarboxed on each side.

Anbernic also shows DisplayPort output over USB-C at 1080p, plus AR-glasses support. Paired with AR glasses, Anbernic says the RG DDS can produce "native stereoscopic 3D effects."

Why the timing matters

On October 13, Time Extension reported that the Entertainment Software Association had asked the U.S. Trade Representative to scrutinise the handheld emulation market. In its Notorious Markets submission, the ESA singled out Anbernic and asked that it be classed as a "Superfake" seller. The complaint focuses on devices sold with memory cards preloaded with unauthorised games. It's a request, not a ruling.

Then on October 26, the Azahar team said Anbernic had been promoting the RG DDS "using unofficial piracy-focused forks of Azahar." "We will NOT be officially supporting this device or others from this manufacturer," the team wrote, adding that "any issues or bugs related to devices from this specific manufacturer will not be investigated or resolved." Azahar can still run on the RG DDS. You just won't get official help with it.

The hardware

The RG DDS is an Android 16 clamshell built on the Snapdragon G2 Gen 2. It has a 4.7-inch 1200x720 top screen and a 4-inch 960x720 bottom screen. Pre-orders opened October 16. On Anbernic's store, the 8GB/128GB model is listed at an early-bird $284.99 (regular $299.99), and Retro Handhelds lists the 12GB/256GB model at $349.99. Anbernic says units ship "gradually starting December 10, 2026."

We haven't tested an RG DDS ourselves yet. Once units arrive, check our compatibility list or submit your results.

Sources: ANBERNIC: RG DDS Gameplay & Expansion Features Demo (Part 1), Retro Handhelds, Time Extension: PS4 demo, Time Extension: Azahar statement, Time Extension: ESA 'Superfake' request, ANBERNIC RG DDS product page. Facts verified against the original reports; written by Overclocked.