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RetroN

The RetroN is a series of retro video game consoles developed by Hyperkin, an manufacturer of gaming peripherals founded in 2006 and based in , , designed to allow users to play original game cartridges from classic systems—including the (NES), (SNES), , and family—via modern outputs on high-definition televisions. Introduced in the late , the RetroN line began with the original RetroN model, a -compatible clone console utilizing an "AN-A chip" for , and expanded to multi-system support with subsequent releases like the RetroN 3 in 2009, which combines compatibility for , SNES, and cartridges in a single unit with output. Later models, such as the RetroN 5 launched in 2014, feature five cartridge slots supporting nine console variants (, Famicom, SNES, Super Famicom, , Mega Drive, , , and ) alongside 720p upscaling, 60 per second playback, digital enhancements for video and audio, save states, capture, and wireless controller compatibility. The series has continued to evolve with specialized consoles like the RetroN Sq (2021) for and cartridges with square form factor support, the RetroN 2 HD (2019) for dual NES/SNES/Famicom/Super Famicom playback at 720p, and the RetroN GX (released August 2025) dedicated to and PC Engine HuCards with 720p output and multiple aspect ratios. Hyperkin's RetroN consoles emphasize nostalgia-driven gameplay without modern additions like online features or achievements, relying on hardware-based to preserve authentic retro experiences while addressing compatibility with contemporary displays.

Overview

Product line description

The RetroN series is Hyperkin's branded lineup of hybrid retro gaming consoles that enable users to play original physical cartridges from classic systems such as the (NES), (SNES), /Mega Drive, family, , and /PC Engine using modern or outputs for compatibility with contemporary televisions. These devices replicate the functionality of vintage —primarily through hardware-based approaches in early models and software in later ones like the RetroN 5—while incorporating updated connectivity to upscale video signals, typically to resolution, without requiring digital downloads. The core purpose of the RetroN line is to preserve gaming nostalgia by allowing direct access to authentic cartridge-based experiences, bypassing the need for aging original consoles that may suffer from wear, issues with modern displays, or in the secondhand market. This approach facilitates seamless integration into current home entertainment setups, supporting features like save states and enhanced audio in select models to improve playability while maintaining the tactile appeal of . By focusing on cartridge authenticity, the series appeals to collectors and enthusiasts seeking reliable, plug-and-play solutions for reliving 8-bit and 16-bit era titles on high-definition screens. The product line has evolved from early single-system dedicated clones, with the inaugural model launching in 2010, to versatile multi-format systems capable of handling cartridges from multiple platforms simultaneously. The most recent addition, released in 2025, extends support to additional legacy formats, reflecting ongoing adaptations to consumer demand for broader retro compatibility. Positioned as budget-friendly alternatives to restored original or more expensive FPGA-based recreations, RetroN consoles typically between $50 and $180, offering accessible entry points for retro without compromising on cartridge fidelity. Hyperkin, the developer behind the series, emphasizes affordability and innovation in bridging generational gaps in technology.

Company background

Hyperkin, Inc. was founded in 2006 in , , by entrepreneur Steven Mar, who serves as the company's co-founder and CEO. Initially, the company focused on developing and distributing video game peripherals and accessories, including licensed products for modern consoles such as replacement components and controllers for the Xbox 360. This early emphasis on innovative hardware solutions laid the groundwork for Hyperkin's entry into the broader gaming accessory market. By 2010, Hyperkin pivoted toward retro gaming accessories and consoles, capitalizing on growing demand for hardware that preserved and modernized classic and systems during periods of original console scarcity. This shift marked the introduction of the RetroN series as Hyperkin's flagship product line, establishing the company as a key player in retro entertainment. Hyperkin's business model centers on third-party manufacturing and distribution, securing official licensing agreements for select intellectual properties—such as from and certain products—while using proprietary and, in some cases like the RetroN 5, open-source-based for retro compatibility to ensure affordability. Key milestones include Hyperkin's expansion into global distribution networks and high-profile product unveilings, such as the 2019 CES announcements of the Hyper Blaster HD for and the RetroN DIY customizable console kit for SNES. In 2025, the company further expanded with the launch of the RetroN GX on August 20, a dedicated for and PC Engine cartridges. As of 2025, Hyperkin employs between 20 and 50 staff members and generates estimated annual revenue in the range of $25 million to $50 million, primarily from its retro gaming products.

Technology and features

Emulation and hardware approaches

The RetroN product line employs a variety of technical approaches to recreate classic console experiences, primarily through software emulation on ARM-based processors for multi-format systems and hardware replication via custom integrated circuits for earlier single- or limited-format models. In software emulation implementations, such as the RetroN 5, a RockChip RK3066 ARM processor runs a customized version of the Android operating system to handle game execution, drawing from open-source emulation frameworks like RetroArch with accurate cores including derivatives of bsnes for Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) titles and Mesen-inspired accuracy for Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) games. This method involves dumping cartridge data to internal memory upon insertion, allowing the system to emulate the original hardware behavior through cycle-accurate simulation, though it can introduce minor input latency compared to native hardware. Hardware replication, used in early models like the RetroN 3, relies on fixed-function custom chips that mimic the original console circuitry without programmable logic, effectively cloning the electrical behavior of systems such as the , SNES, and for near-native performance and . These approaches prioritize by directly interfacing with original and controllers through dedicated ports, supporting both wired connections and optional wireless adapters for reduced setup complexity. Save states are facilitated via onboard or microSD cards, enabling quick suspension and resumption of without altering cartridge data. A methodology combines authenticity with modern output processing across models, where inserted games are read via specialized slots to extract ROM data, followed by for upscaling to HDMI resolution while preserving original aspect ratios and adding optional filters like scanlines. Later software-based systems, including the RetroN Sq and GX, extend this by using ARM system-on-chip () processors for of handheld and niche formats like and , achieving high compatibility rates—such as approximately 97% for supported NES titles—through iterative firmware updates. However, these systems lack online multiplayer capabilities and may require region-specific handling for and PAL cartridges, with occasional glitches in edge-case titles due to variances. Features like rewind are integrated via the layer for user convenience.

Shared functionalities

RetroN models incorporate consistent video and audio output options to support both legacy and modern displays. Early systems, such as the RetroN 1, 2, and 3, provide composite AV and connections for standard-definition televisions, enabling direct compatibility with setups. Later models, including the RetroN 5 and HD variants like the RetroN 3 HD and GX, feature outputs that upscale gameplay to resolution for enhanced clarity on high-definition screens. These implementations often include adjustable aspect ratios (16:9 or 4:3) and basic video enhancement modes, such as scanline overlays to simulate effects, improving visual authenticity on flat-panel displays. Gameplay enhancements form a core set of usability features across the lineup, leveraging emulation software to add conveniences absent in original hardware. Save and load states allow users to capture progress at any moment, with support for multiple slots—typically up to nine or ten per game—stored internally or on SD cards to resume sessions without passwords or battery saves. Fast-forward functionality, activated via controller hotkeys or menu options, accelerates gameplay for skipping dialogues or grinding sections, while screenshot capture enables users to save in-game moments directly to SD cards for sharing. Rewind capabilities, available in select models like the GX, permit backtracking up to 12 frames to retry actions, though earlier systems rely on quick save/load cycles for similar effects. Controller compatibility emphasizes flexibility, blending authentic inputs with modern options. All models retain cartridge passthrough slots that support original console controllers plugged into dedicated ports, preserving the feel of vintage hardware. Newer systems, such as the RetroN 5 and GX, include USB ports for connecting contemporary gamepads, with automatic remapping to match emulated systems and support for wireless pairings in some cases. Additional features enhance accessibility and maintenance. Some models, like the RetroN 77, include built-in support for homebrew games via -loaded ROMs, expanding library options beyond physical cartridges. updates, delivered through USB or , address compatibility issues and add enhancements, ensuring ongoing support from Hyperkin. Power options prioritize reliability, with desktop units using 5V DC adapters compatible with standard wall outlets, often including international plugs for global use. Handheld variants, such as the , incorporate rechargeable batteries for portability, while desktop models maintain compact dimensions suitable for tabletop setups.

History

Inception and early development (2007–2012)

Hyperkin, founded in 2006 and based in , , began developing the RetroN series to offer modern hardware solutions for playing classic video games from aging 8-bit and 16-bit consoles. The inaugural model, the RetroN 1, was released in 2007 as an affordable NES-only clone console priced at approximately $50, utilizing an "AN-A chip" for emulation and targeting budget-conscious consumers seeking a simple entry into retro play. Hyperkin expanded the lineup with the RetroN 3, announced in May 2010 ahead of that year's and launched shortly thereafter at a price of around $70. This console introduced switchable cartridge slots supporting , SNES (including Super Famicom), and (including Mega Drive) games, allowing users to play originals without needing multiple original systems. The company further developed the series with the RetroN 2 in 2012, priced at about $60, which combined and SNES compatibility with enhanced output options for better connectivity to contemporary televisions. Early development faced logistical hurdles, including cartridge reader supply constraints, though positive reception at for the RetroN 3 helped build momentum for the series. This period aligned with a burgeoning retro gaming market, driven by indie titles embracing 8-bit aesthetics, such as (released in 2010), which highlighted renewed interest in classic gameplay styles.

Expansion and challenges (2013–2020)

Following the initial success of its early models, Hyperkin expanded the RetroN line in 2014 with the introduction of the RetroN 5 at the (CES), marking a significant step toward multi-system compatibility by supporting cartridges from the , SNES, , , and , among others. This device utilized open-source software to enable play on modern HDMI-equipped displays, broadening appeal to collectors seeking a centralized solution for 8- and 16-bit and systems. The expansion continued in 2017 with the RetroN 77, unveiled at and designed specifically for cartridges, capitalizing on renewed interest in the platform amid Atari's own revival efforts, such as the Ataribox announcement. This model output in HD via , preserving the woodgrain aesthetic of the original while adding save states and modern connectivity. A pivotal shift toward high-definition retro gaming occurred in 2018 with the launches of the Supa RetroN HD for Super Nintendo cartridges and the Mega RetroN HD for Sega Genesis/Mega Drive titles, both featuring 720p HDMI output for enhanced visuals on contemporary televisions. These clones emphasized hardware-based reproduction over pure emulation, including authentic controller designs and AV fallback options, to appeal to purists while addressing compatibility issues in earlier models. This period was not without challenges; in 2014, shortly after the RetroN 5's release, Hyperkin faced controversy for incorporating open-source emulators like , , and Genesis Plus GX without proper attribution or compliance with their licensing terms, prompting accusations of from emulator developers. Hyperkin responded by committing to updates and collaborations with the community, including revisions to address and credit issues, which helped mitigate backlash and improve the device's reputation over time. Business growth during these years included strategic partnerships, such as licensing agreements with for official Genesis-compatible accessories and controllers bearing the badge, enabling Hyperkin to distribute branded peripherals alongside its RetroN hardware. These collaborations expanded market reach and lent legitimacy to the RetroN ecosystem, contributing to sustained demand for retro solutions. Looking ahead within the decade, Hyperkin teased future innovations at CES 2019 with the announcement of the RetroN DIY, a solder-free kit based on Zero for building custom SNES-compatible systems, aimed at educational and enthusiasts. Later that year, the company revealed the RetroN Ult at , a premium N64 cartridge player promising 720p output and original controller support, signaling ambitions for 3D-era expansion. In January 2020, Hyperkin announced the RetroN Sq, a compact console for and cartridges with output, further diversifying the lineup for portable retro .

Released models

Early 8-bit consoles (RetroN 1, 2, 3)

The early RetroN models, produced by Hyperkin, focused on emulating 8-bit systems from and , providing affordable hardware clones that allowed users to play original cartridges on modern televisions through composite outputs. These devices emphasized compatibility with authentic controllers and cartridges while introducing multi-system support in a compact , marking Hyperkin's initial foray into dedicated retro hardware. Launched between 2007 and 2012, the RetroN 1, 2, and 3 prioritized simplicity and accessibility for enthusiasts seeking to revive classic 8-bit gaming without relying on software . The RetroN 3, released in , was Hyperkin's first multi-format console in the series, featuring three dedicated cartridge slots for , SNES (including Super Famicom), and (Mega Drive) games. Priced at approximately $70 at launch, it supported both and PAL cartridges and included two wireless controllers alongside ports for up to six original wired controllers (two per system). Outputs were limited to composite AV with support for SNES and Genesis modes, delivering standard 240p resolution suitable for or early LCD TVs. Compatibility was strong for most titles, though some Genesis games like exhibited issues. Following in 2007, the RetroN 1 targeted -only playback with a single top-loading slot, emphasizing a compact design measuring about 9.8 x 8.2 x 2.6 inches and weighing 1.54 pounds. Launched at around $50, it used composite AV output for 240p video and included one wired controller compatible with original NES accessories like the Zapper . A basic on-screen menu allowed selection of region settings for /PAL s, ensuring broad compatibility without advanced features like save states. Its top-loading mechanism facilitated easy insertion and removal to minimize wear. The RetroN 2, introduced in 2012, expanded on the RetroN 1 by supporting both NES and SNES games through a single cartridge slot paired with an included pass-through adapter for SNES/Super Famicom titles. With an MSRP of $59.99, it offered composite AV output with added S-video capability and came bundled with two wired controllers—one styled for NES and one for SNES. Audio processing was refined compared to prior models, providing clearer emulation of original sound chips for improved fidelity in games like Super Mario Bros. or The Legend of Zelda. Like its predecessors, it maintained 240p resolution and focused on controller compatibility without wireless options. Key innovations across these early models included the multi-slot design of the RetroN 3, which allowed seamless switching between 8-bit ecosystems without adapters, and the safe handling mechanisms in all three to prevent pin damage during insertion or removal. These features laid the groundwork for Hyperkin's emphasis on hardware authenticity over software-based . In 2020, Hyperkin released the RetroN 3 HD as a refreshed variant of the original RetroN 3, adding output for upscaling while retaining the triple-slot design and compatibility. Priced at $99.99, it improved overall accuracy and included switching between 4:3 and 16:9, making it suitable for modern HDTVs without sacrificing support for original controllers. This update addressed limitations in video quality from the 2010 model while preserving its core 8-bit focus.

Multi-format systems (RetroN 5, 77)

The RetroN 5, released in 2014, represents Hyperkin's first foray into a versatile console supporting cartridges from multiple classic systems across and platforms. It features five dedicated cartridge slots compatible with /Famicom, SNES/Super Famicom, /Mega Drive, and /GBC/GBA games, enabling users to play titles from these eras without adapters. The system outputs video via at up to resolution and supports 60 frames per second, with digital enhancements for improved visuals and interpolated audio. Priced at a launch MSRP of $99.99 (later increased to $149.99–$179.99), it includes an onboard slot for save states, screenshot capture, and backup functionality, enhancing accessibility for modern playthroughs. Key to its design are six universal controller ports—two each for NES, SNES/Genesis, and Game Boy-style inputs—allowing original or compatible controllers to connect directly, with support for wireless options via included pairings. The on-screen display (OSD) is multilingual, accommodating global users, while the system handles both PAL and cartridges seamlessly for full regional compatibility. These elements emphasize the RetroN 5's role in bridging diverse retro libraries, though some advanced mappers required post-launch updates for optimal support. In contrast, the RetroN 77, launched in 2017, focuses on the ecosystem while incorporating modern conveniences for broader appeal within that era's library. Dedicated to cartridges, it achieves approximately 85% compatibility out of the box (expandable via to near 100%), with output upscaled to and selectable 4:3 or 16:9 aspect ratios. At an MSRP of $79.99, the console features a woodgrain aesthetic reminiscent of the original hardware, two controller ports supporting legacy joysticks and paddles, and an slot for homebrew testing and updates. It includes compatibility for vintage TVs and comes preloaded with four built-in homebrew games, such as Muncher 77 and Astronomer 2018, to demonstrate its capabilities.

HD handheld and clone variants (Supa RetroN HD, Mega RetroN HD, RetroN Sq, GX)

The HD handheld and clone variants of the RetroN series represent Hyperkin's shift toward system-specific, affordable hardware emphasizing modern connectivity and simplified designs for individual retro consoles. Released starting in , these models focus on single-platform compatibility, upscaling original cartridges to resolution while retaining compatibility with both and PAL regions where applicable. Unlike multi-format predecessors, they prioritize plug-and-play simplicity for enthusiasts seeking to revive specific 16-bit or handheld libraries on contemporary displays, often at budget prices under $100. The Supa RetroN HD, launched in January 2018 in the United States, is a dedicated clone for Super NES and Super Famicom cartridges. It outputs video at 720p via with selectable 4:3 or 16:9 aspect ratios, alongside composite support for legacy TVs, and includes two wired classic-style controllers, an HD cable, a micro USB charging cable, and an cable. Priced at an MSRP of $74.99, the unlicensed device measures 11.00 x 3.50 x 8.25 inches and weighs 2.85 pounds, functioning as a stationary console without advanced features like save states or built-in battery backup . extends to both and PAL cartridges, delivering faithful 16-bit gameplay on modern screens, though it lacks enhancements such as scanlines or rewind. Similarly, the Mega RetroN HD arrived later in 2018 as an unlicensed and Mega Drive emulator, with retail availability noted around . It supports 720p output with 4:3 and 16:9 options, plus connectivity, and bundles one "squire" wired controller, an HD cable, a micro USB cable, and an AV cable. At an MSRP of $59.99 and dimensions of 11.00 x 8.25 x 3.50 inches (2.75 pounds), it accommodates and PAL cartridges with strong overall compatibility for the 16-bit library, enabling original controllers via its ports. The design emphasizes affordability and ease of use for fans, without save states or other software overlays, focusing instead on hardware-accurate replication. The RetroN Sq, introduced in 2021, targets the Game Boy family with support for , , and cartridges (the latter in beta mode at launch). This compact, cube-shaped unit—measuring 7.50 x 3.75 x 6.25 inches and weighing 1.80 pounds—connects directly to HDTVs via for 720p upscaling at 60 FPS, featuring a 4:3/16:9 toggle but no integrated screen for portable play. It includes a 10-foot wired USB controller, a 3-foot cable, a 6-foot USB-C power cable, a power adapter, and a slot primarily for updates. Priced at $89.99 MSRP, the unlicensed device prioritizes TV-based revival of handheld classics, with compatibility for original accessories like link cables unemulated in hardware. Hyperkin's most recent entry, the RetroN GX, debuted on August 20, 2025, as a clone for and PC Engine games, excluding support. This unlicensed console delivers HDMI output and incorporates user-friendly features like save states, a 12-point rewind function, and scanline filters via updated (version 1.0 and later pre-installed on retail units). It supports hot-swappable cartridges for seamless game switching and includes USB ports for compatible controllers, though it does not accommodate flash carts or expansions. At $99.99 MSRP, the device—likely employing an FPGA core for emulation accuracy—focuses on 8- and 16-bit titles, with ongoing enhancements addressing initial compatibility gaps. Across these variants, common elements include upscaling to for enhanced visuals on modern TVs, flexibility, bundled wired controllers, and AV fallback options, making them accessible entry points for single-system retro gaming. While lacking SD card slots for external saves—unlike broader RetroN models—they generally support original controller inputs via USB where feasible, emphasizing hardware fidelity over expansive software tools.

Announced models

RetroN Ult

The RetroN Ult, officially known as the RetroN Ult Premium Retro Gaming Console for N64, is a planned clone system for the Nintendo 64 announced by Hyperkin in June 2019 during E3. Designed to revive interest in N64 titles following the absence of an official Nintendo 64 Classic Edition, the console supports original N64 cartridges and delivers video output via HDMI at 720p resolution. Key planned features include four controller ports for multiplayer compatibility with original N64 controllers, support for analog sticks, and support for save transfers from Memory Pak via a to enhance accessibility. Hyperkin has not finalized the core emulation approach, leaving open the possibility of using either FPGA hardware for low-latency accuracy or software for broader compatibility. These elements aim to provide a faithful yet updated playing experience for classic N64 games like and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. As of November 2025, the RetroN Ult remains unreleased and in an extended development phase, with no confirmed release date, pricing details, or public prototypes beyond the initial demonstration. Hyperkin has prioritized other products in the RetroN lineup, such as the RetroN 5 and recent clones for other systems, amid a lack of official updates on this N64 project since 2019.

RetroN DIY

The RetroN DIY is a modular DIY kit developed by Hyperkin for users to assemble custom retro gaming consoles, announced at the (CES) in January 2019. It centers on a Zero W as the main computing component, paired with a custom (PCB) that incorporates two SNES controller ports and a universal cartridge slot compatible with SNES and Super Famicom games. Designed as a solder-free assembly option, the kit targets hobbyists and provides hardware for outputting games in resolution via . Key components include the board for core connectivity, multiple enclosure options to facilitate custom casings, and exposed GPIO pins enabling expansions such as additional slots for systems like the or other peripherals. The kit integrates with software suitable for , allowing users to load and play a range of retro titles through reading or digital ROMs. This setup supports user-driven modifications, including community-driven add-ons for enhanced functionality like FPGA-based to improve accuracy over software methods. Intended for DIY enthusiasts building personalized multi-system retro setups, the RetroN DIY emphasizes accessibility in tinkering while preserving original cartridge-based . As of November 2025, the project has remained in prototype form without a commercial launch, with Hyperkin redirecting resources toward ready-to-use models such as the RetroN GX.

Reception and legacy

Critical and user reviews

The RetroN series has generally received positive to mixed reviews from professional critics, with average scores hovering around 7 out of 10 across major outlets like and , emphasizing its appeal for retro enthusiasts seeking cartridge-based play on modern displays. The RetroN 5, released in 2014, earned high praise for its versatility in supporting multiple 8- and 16-bit systems via output at resolution, scoring 4.5 out of 5 from for its crisp visuals and features like save states that enhance long-play sessions such as in The Legend of Zelda. Similarly, the RetroN Sq (2021) was lauded by with an 8 out of 10 for its portable design and seamless integration, allowing , , and cartridges to shine on HDTVs with minimal setup. User feedback echoes these strengths, with ratings averaging 4.2 out of 5 stars across over 1,200 reviews for the RetroN 5, where consumers frequently highlight the plug-and-play ease, authentic cartridge feel, and value for building collections without needing original . Reviewers appreciate the HDMI connectivity for compatibility with contemporary TVs, often noting how it revives nostalgia for titles like Super Mario Bros. while adding modern conveniences such as wireless controllers and region-free support. For the more recent RetroN GX (2025), awarded 3.5 out of 5 stars, commending its accurate emulation of and PC Engine games and nostalgic authenticity at an affordable price point, though early users on (3.6 out of 5 from 22 ratings as of November 2025) praise the save features for extended play and the wired controller's retro ergonomics. Early models like the RetroN 3 received acclaim for affordability and broad compatibility with , SNES, and cartridges, as noted in a 2010 Nintendo Life review that highlighted its support for original controllers despite relying on AV output. Overall, reviews indicate improving reception post-2018 with HD-focused models, where compatibility rates exceed 90% for standard cartridges according to aggregated tester feedback, and the factor consistently drives positive sentiment for save functionalities in marathon games.

Controversies and impact

The RetroN series has encountered several controversies centered on emulation licensing and hardware compatibility. The most prominent arose in 2014 with the launch of the RetroN 5, which faced backlash for incorporating open-source emulator cores, such as those from , without initial attribution or full compliance with their GPL licenses, including usage of byuu's bsnes for SNES . Hyperkin addressed the issue by releasing the device's publicly and committing to ongoing license fulfillment, with subsequent updates incorporating proper credits to the original developers. Subsequent models have drawn compatibility complaints. The 2018 Mega RetroN HD, a Genesis/Mega Drive clone, received user reports of inconsistent performance, including failures to boot certain titles like 2. In 2025, the RetroN GX faced criticism for incomplete PC Engine (PCE) support, with reviewers noting significant issues in HU Card compatibility and incompatibility with flash carts like Everdrives, limiting its viability for a full ; however, firmware updates released throughout 2025 have improved performance and addressed some compatibility problems. Legally, Hyperkin navigated a 2019 trademark infringement lawsuit from over similarities in and console designs for -compatible products, which was settled following a denial of in Hyperkin's favor. The RetroN line has had a substantial impact on retro gaming by popularizing cartridge-based hardware, inspiring FPGA-focused competitors like Analogue's and , and boosting homebrew development through features like the RetroN 77's expanded library support. As of 2025, it is credited with sustaining demand for in an era dominated by digital re-releases, while fueling broader preservation debates around hardware authenticity versus ROM-based archiving.

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