RetroN 5 is officially a thing, apparently

[Dr. BaconStein]

No images yet, but from the press release, it's got:

- Bluetooth Controller
- GBA support
- HDMI support
- “Perdana” Digital User Interface (???)

Sadly no N64 yet, but it looks like we are getting a lot closer. I'll be honest, I wasn't expecting them to do a four-cart clone, especially not one with GBA. This should be very interesting.

http://hyperkin.com/blog/2013/03/hyperkin-to-reveal-new-retron-4-system-at-midwest-gaming-classic/

[Tupin]

I don't think we'll ever get an N64OAC. Emulation is simply just to cheap and widespread to make the creation of a hardware solution necessary.

[Satoshi_Matrix]

Damnit Hyperkin, you got me legitimately curious!

HDMI output? GBA compatibility? Bluetooth wireless controller? This all sounds good on paper. I reallllllly hope they put in a better NOAC here.

As an owner of many Hyperkin products, I have to say I've been woefully disappointed by the vast majority of their products, including the RetroN3.

More than likely, I'll buy one for review.


Right now with as little information as we're currently given, I have many questions looming over this product.




1. How exactly will HDMI output work? There is no NES-on-a-chip that supports anything better than composite. For the NES side, is Hyperkin simply planning on feeding a composite signal through HDMI as they did with the S-Video signal on the RetorN3?

2. Will OEM Nintendo and Sega controllers work? I assume so given the RetorN series history, but it's still an important question to ask.

3. Will the device be HDMI only? As in, no other video standards?

4. GBA compatibility sounds exciting, but there's quite a number of questions looming over this concept alone. How will you control GBA games? Will GBA games be fullscreen? Will they include the entire GBA chipset meaning GameBoy and GameBoy Color games are also playable?

5. Compatibility! Will the current issues with the NES and especially SNES sides of the RetorN3 be fixed?

[Gameguy]

I have separate consoles for all of those so this is pretty useless for me, I can't see a real use for this. The full NTSC and PAL compatibility sounds nice, but they'll probably screw it up in some way. I'm guessing they won't bother to convert the signals, they'll just expect people to be playing this console on a worldwide compatible TV as most modern sets are. Hense the focus on HDMI connections, though I don't expect the output to be optimised for any high definition resolution.

[Gunstar Hero]

Holy shit! I have an NES, SNES, and Genesis on my TV but playing GBA on the big screen?!?! That's awesome!

[Gameguy]

Holy shit! I have an NES, SNES, and Genesis on my TV but playing GBA on the big screen?!?! That's awesome!
You can buy a Gameboy Player for the Gamecube, or one of those conversion kits for the original GBA consoles. A friend of mine bought one of those kits for his brother as a gift, I was told it works pretty well.

The main thing I have against these clones is the lack of accuracy compared to legit first party hardware. If you don't care about it being 100% authentic and want to save space, why not just buy a cheap Win XP laptop for under $50 and have a bunch of emulators on it along with tons of ROMS? You can hook that up to a TV as well, play anything you want in addition to the four consoles this one clone can do. Having ROMS on a computer or running them straight from the original carts doesn't matter, the code is identical. All that matters is what's used to run the games, either legit hardware, a clone, or an emulator on a PC.

[MyTurnToPlay]

I received an advanced delivery of this product for review....so let me save everyone the trouble. The Retron 4 is a piece of crap. Hyperkin has a consistent record of trashy junk products...and this one is no different.

On the bright side of things...100 poor Chinese laborers were given jobs by Hyperkin to make this thing....so in a sense...Hyperkin is leading the charge towards making the world a better place. "Hyperkin the humanitarians"...pretty catchy slogan

thank you.

P.S. Fix the Supaboy you clowns.

thanks again.

[ZP3]

I have the Retron3. At first, I thought it was going to be awesome, a great system for all of my retro gaming needs. I was wrong. It has terrible compatibility, I have a whole stack of NES games that don't work, as well as multiple snes games. Besides that, it is fairly decent. The compatibility issues kill it for me.

[Satoshi_Matrix]

MyTurnToPlay, I'm not sure if you're just trolling, but I call bullshit unless you can provide something more than a typical "lol hyperkin sucks and all clones suck" statement.

If you really do have a review unit then by all means, let us see photos of what it looks like!

Also, I have several questions.

1. How does HDMI output work for NES? Is it simply feeding a composite signal through HDMI as they did with the S-Video signal on the RetorN3?

2. Does it have the same controller ports as the RetorN3 - Two NES, Two SNES, Two Genesis and a wireless receiver?

3. How is the Blutooth controller? Is it the same as the IR one with the RetorN3, but now not limited by line of sight?

4. Does it offer any other video standards other than HDMI? Composite, S-Video?

5. How are GBA games controlled?

6. Are GBA games full screen or windowed like the GB Player for GameCube?

7. Do GB or GBC games work with the GBA slot?

8. Not a question, but talk about compatibility!

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

MyTurnToPlay, I'm not sure if you're just trolling, but I call bullshit unless you can provide something more than a typical "lol hyperkin sucks and all clones suck" statement.

If you really do have a review unit then by all means, let us see photos of what it looks like!

Also, I have several questions.

1. How does HDMI output work for NES? Is it simply feeding a composite signal through HDMI as they did with the S-Video signal on the RetorN3?

2. Does it have the same controller ports as the RetorN3 - Two NES, Two SNES, Two Genesis and a wireless receiver?

3. How is the Blutooth controller? Is it the same as the IR one with the RetorN3, but now not limited by line of sight?

4. Does it offer any other video standards other than HDMI? Composite, S-Video?

5. How are GBA games controlled?

6. Are GBA games full screen or windowed like the GB Player for GameCube?

7. Do GB or GBC games work with the GBA slot?

8. Not a question, but talk about compatibility!

Dude, seriously?

Pardon me while I go get our official contact from Hyperkin to call bullshit.

[Gunstar Hero]

You can buy a Gameboy Player for the Gamecube, or one of those conversion kits for the original GBA consoles. A friend of mine bought one of those kits for his brother as a gift, I was told it works pretty well.

The main thing I have against these clones is the lack of accuracy compared to legit first party hardware. If you don't care about it being 100% authentic and want to save space, why not just buy a cheap Win XP laptop for under $50 and have a bunch of emulators on it along with tons of ROMS? You can hook that up to a TV as well, play anything you want in addition to the four consoles this one clone can do. Having ROMS on a computer or running them straight from the original carts doesn't matter, the code is identical. All that matters is what's used to run the games, either legit hardware, a clone, or an emulator on a PC.

I use emulators but I mostly like to use real cartridges (or discs) when I play. I forgot about the Gameboy player, I might need to check that out! I heard they are fairly cheap as well but I'm not sure how expensive the discs that came with them are. Do you need the disc to use the player?

[buzz_n64]

I use emulators but I mostly like to use real cartridges (or discs) when I play. I forgot about the Gameboy player, I might need to check that out! I heard they are fairly cheap as well but I'm not sure how expensive the discs that came with them are. Do you need the disc to use the player?

Yes, you need the disc.

[Gameguy]

MyTurnToPlay, I'm not sure if you're just trolling....
Look through the rest of his posts, I dare you to find one that's not trolling something.


I use emulators but I mostly like to use real cartridges (or discs) when I play. I forgot about the Gameboy player, I might need to check that out! I heard they are fairly cheap as well but I'm not sure how expensive the discs that came with them are. Do you need the disc to use the player?
The Gameboy Players with the disc are around $30 last I checked, I don't have one yet though. You do need the disc, I keep finding them without the disc so I just pass on them. The discs are what makes them expensive, it's cheaper to buy a complete one than to just try buying the parts separately. I'm kicking myself now but I remember passing on a loose Gamecube system for $7.99 which included the Gameboy Player(no disc), a loose copy of Zelda Twilight Princess, and a broadband adapter. I didn't know at the time that broadband adapters were worth so much, the Gameboy Player was useless without the disc and since the Zelda was loose I didn't think it was worth much. Now I know better. LOL

I don't really emulate anything anymore, I mostly did that to play games at school during lunch around 10 years ago. The thing is if you're using a clone system the games might be off when you're playing them, similar to emulator problems. If the processor is the wrong speed the games will play at the wrong speed, if the sound chips are off the games will sound off, if the graphics chips aren't good you'll have problems with the graphics, etc. If you were to play ROMs using a flash cart on actual legit hardware they'll play the same as the real games, it's the hardware you play them on that makes the difference. I'd rather just play them using real systems, with buying bundles and collections of games they work out cheaper than buying any of these clones separately.

[treismac]

When will there be a halfway decent multiple system clone that allows you to play roms like that much maligned Sonic themed Genesis clone [it's licensed so is it really a clone?] with the Wii-esqu motion controllers does? That would just be so rad to have the choice between both cartridges and roms. Also, as long as I'm tossing up wishes, I'd had preferred the ability to play my 2600 & 7800 games over GBA games.

[Az]

Most (all?) of the GBA clones I've seen are ARM based animals running hit-or-miss emulation. Lots of title compatibility problems (FPS's, games that use rudimentary 3D), tendency to either not save or wipe saves off a cartridge, etc.

I somehow doubt Hyperkin has not only solved these issues, but is bundling this improved GBA setup in with a multi-platform console.

[Leo_A]

Sounds interesting at the very least. If there was some support for loading rom images off a SD card for the GBA end of it, I'd buy it if done well.

[Satoshi_Matrix]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g4a49-7OHtE


This is what you're looking for.

[Xander]

You can buy a Gameboy Player for the Gamecube, or one of those conversion kits for the original GBA consoles. A friend of mine bought one of those kits for his brother as a gift, I was told it works pretty well.

The main thing I have against these clones is the lack of accuracy compared to legit first party hardware. If you don't care about it being 100% authentic and want to save space, why not just buy a cheap Win XP laptop for under $50 and have a bunch of emulators on it along with tons of ROMS? You can hook that up to a TV as well, play anything you want in addition to the four consoles this one clone can do. Having ROMS on a computer or running them straight from the original carts doesn't matter, the code is identical. All that matters is what's used to run the games, either legit hardware, a clone, or an emulator on a PC.

I... I had no idea that existed. It's awesome, Thank you!

[recorderdude]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g4a49-7OHtE


This is what you're looking for.

I have a front loading version of that card. It's actually really nice for GBA Games but I lost my savs at one point so be ready to replace the battery in there once it dies.

Don't try to use it for DS games, though. Compatibility hasn't been updated in eons.

[Polygon]

This does nothing that I can't already do as I have all the original systems and a GameBoy player. I've never been a fan of emulators or clones. Mainly because I've never seen one that didn't have issues. I can see how someone would like to get one of these to consolidate and save space. I'm just too big of a sucker for nostalgia. Never mind the issues, I like gaming on the original hardware just because I like how it looks too. I like gaming on an the original NES because it's an NES and it reminds me of those times just looking at it. I don't even own a top loader because I wouldn't play on it. Yes, I'm a little strange.

Despite all that, I think this is interesting and like Satoshi I would like to know the answers to those questions as well.

[Tanooki]

Satoshi don't feed the troll. :) I wish someone would get rid of that already.

I'm shocked what they're attempting to do here and I really want those questions you asked answered too. I've never touched their NES based stuff, but the 2nd revision of the Supaboy I own and it's amazing, though I had to mod the D-PAD to work like a real SNES controller to get me feeling amazed by it.

I'm really curious how they'll handle the internals on their controller. I want to know what method of driving these games they'll use as if it will be a bunch of 'system on a chip' chips in there, a beefier common ARM processor like other multi-emulator handhelds out of China use, or what exactly? I'm interested in finding out how they'll handle on a first outing GBA playback and how it will output to the screen and speakers.

I think I'd actually consider buying it as I heard it was like $80~ and I don't like clones, but it would be useful to have as a lazy carry around device I could take to my nephews place or to the back bedroom without having to unwire all my stuff. Also very very curious to see how the HDMI is handled if it's clean or a damned nightmare like past systems where RCA cables work great, but fail on another system and reversed the other way. I think they're the ones with the NES+SNES combo where if you use the wrong cable for the wrong system on a chip the output goes to crap.

[RARusk]

The Gameboy Players with the disc are around $30 last I checked, I don't have one yet though. You do need the disc, I keep finding them without the disc so I just pass on them. The discs are what makes them expensive, it's cheaper to buy a complete one than to just try buying the parts separately. I'm kicking myself now but I remember passing on a loose Gamecube system for $7.99 which included the Gameboy Player(no disc), a loose copy of Zelda Twilight Princess, and a broadband adapter. I didn't know at the time that broadband adapters were worth so much, the Gameboy Player was useless without the disc and since the Zelda was loose I didn't think it was worth much. Now I know better. LOL

Isn't there a mod out there for it where you don't need the disc? I mean if you can put SD Cards and hard drives on the GameCube I would think that someone has figured out a way around the disc problem.

[treismac]

I like gaming on an the original NES because it's an NES and it reminds me of those times just looking at it. I don't even own a top loader because I wouldn't play on it. Yes, I'm a little strange.

That's not strange. I bought a Top Loader just to confirm its inferiority to the beloved original NES, and now my Top Loader just gets the occasional glance and halfass wiping off of dust from me.

[Polygon]

That's not strange. I bought a Top Loader just to confirm its inferiority to the beloved original NES, and now my Top Loader just gets the occasional glance and halfass wiping off of dust from me.

What amazes me is the cost of a top loader. Especially if you want one complete in the box. Initially I refused to get one simply because of how it looked. Then I saw that it was actually inferior to the original. That made me glad I didn't cave and get one, just for the simple fact of owning one. The only advantage I see to the top loader is the 72 pin connector on the board, which would be less prone to breakage. Then again, I have enough 001s to never have to worry about broken parts. :)

[Nionel]

I'm interested in this simply for the HDMI, the ability to play my NES and Genesis games on the big TV in the living room is very tempting. I already have the SNES and Gameboy (via GameCube) with S-Video and they look good. I'll hold off to see if compatibility is going to be an issue, and exactly how the HDMI will work, price is also a factor, but again we'll see. I'm bit getting my hopes too high, but I'm still optimistic.

[MachineGex]

I received an advanced delivery of this product for review....so let me save everyone the trouble. The Retron 4 is a piece of crap. Hyperkin has a consistent record of trashy junk products...and this one is no different.

On the bright side of things...100 poor Chinese laborers were given jobs by Hyperkin to make this thing....so in a sense...Hyperkin is leading the charge towards making the world a better place. "Hyperkin the humanitarians"...pretty catchy slogan

thank you.

P.S. Fix the Supaboy you clowns.

thanks again.

Dude, if you are only here to trash products, then you need to leave. No one here wants to hear your lies. We all understand you hate these products, but you dont need to play everyone like fools and tell us bullshit.

Mods, please kick this guy to the curb. He only trolls threads and has been caught lying to us. This community needs honest people, not guys spreading BS about a product that isnt even out.

[Satoshi_Matrix]

I'm inclined to agree.

MyTurnToPlay, it's fine with me if you want to voice your opinions on how you don't like clones. Your entitled to your opinion the same as anyone is.

What you're NOT entitled to is simply lying just to crap over this thread. If you aren't lying then man up and post some actual information and photos.

Otherwise, yes, mods please ban this guy for doing nothing but trolling.


ANYWAY,


What intrigues me most about the retorN4 is the idea that it'll have HDMI output across the board. I'm not sure how that will work for GBA and especially NES. SNES and Genesis both have RGB encoders and there are component mods for the original hardware of both systems. HDMI is just converting that component standard.

Thing is, at most, the signal is 240p which a lot of tvs will automatically upscale to 480p which can vary the results individual gamers will get. In addition to that, certain brands of LCD tvs will not display a 240p video feed whatsoever, making them potentially entirely useless unless the RetorN4 has something built into it to automatically upscale to 480p, which itself could cause problems.


Then there's GBA.

How will THAT work? The GBA display was intended for a small custom resolution LCD screen that had an aspect ratio of 3:2, which is neither 4:3 or 16:9. Is Hyperkin going to window the 3:2 aspect ratio image as Nintendo did with the GBP or are they going to stretch it 4:3 or 16:9 or leave it up to the user to decide? Also, what kind of video output is possible from a GBA? I honestly don't know - GBP can do 480p, but that's tied in with the GameCube hardware. What about the GBA itself? Should we expect 480p from GBA, or 240p like SNES and Genesis?


And finally, the NES.

Oh boy the NES. This is where I'm honestly expecting Hyperkin to drop the bucket and not put in anything but the most barebones features. Will HDMI NES actually be something HD? Currently, every NOAC in the world contains a copy of the RP2C02, which can only output RF and composite video. Even Hyperkin's RetorN3 which features a S-Video cable feeds composite through the Luma line of S-Video to create the illusion that S-Video is possible from their NOAC.

So Hyperkin will need to:

-Engineer a new NOAC capable of outputting HD resolutions
-Ensure they do not reverse duty cycles to create typical NOAC sound distortions
-Work on compatibility

That's a real tall order Hyperkin. If you succeed, this thing will be amazing; but given the track record and difficulty of that task, I'm not holding my breath.

[MyTurnToPlay]

I stand by my statements that this is another crap Hyperkin product. When this thing is released to the general public, I will bump this thread so that all may be amazed at my perspicacious prophetic words.

thank you.

[Atarileaf]

I stand by my statements that this is another crap Hyperkin product. When this thing is released to the general public, I will bump this thread so that all may be amazed at my perspicacious prophetic words.

thank you.

You still haven't answered anyones questions or provided any proof you have one of these and actually tried it. Until you provide that proof, you're still officially a liar so man up or GTFO

[MachineGex]

Of course he is lying. Look at his past posts, almost all of them are him talking shit about clones. I have never been one to ask for a BAN, but this dude is a liar and he is spreading mis-information cuz he has a chip on his shoulder. WE are all tired of your shit.

[Satoshi_Matrix]

As I said, MyTurnToPlay is entitled to his opinions and not liking clones and anything Hyperkin makes. Even I'm not sure if that's a stretch for how I feel about it.

But claiming that he has a review unit with no proof is just bullshit.

If he somehow is using a statement like that as a guise to simply say "the RetorN4 is gonna suck" and later post something like "see I told you so I'm so smart" if it turns out that way, I have one question.

Who the hell does he think he's impressing?

Hyperkin can very easily screw this up, and no matter what they do they won't please everyone. The price will be too high, it'll letterbox or stretch images, it'll not play certain games, whatever. There's no pleasing people. The question is where the RetorN4 will fall in comparison to existing clones.

[BricatSegaFan]

Of course he is lying. Look at his past posts, almost all of them are him talking shit about clones. I have never been one to ask for a BAN, but this dude is a liar and he is spreading mis-information cuz he has a chip on his shoulder. WE are all tired of your shit.

Maybe HE is a knock off Chinese clone :eek:

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

I stand by my statements that this is another crap Hyperkin product. When this thing is released to the general public, I will bump this thread so that all may be amazed at my perspicacious prophetic words.

thank you.

You can bump the thread all you want but it's not going to make anybody give any more shits than they already do about anything you have to say about clone consoles.

[XYXZYZ]

So if Retron 1,2 and 3 were bad (I've never seen them, I don't know) were they equally bad, or did each one make improvements over the last?

[Satoshi_Matrix]

They're not incremental.

The RetorN1 is just a renamed version of the Yobo FC Game Console. It's also sold by RetroBit under the name Retro Entertainment System. It's simply a NES NOAC.

The RetorN2 was recently released> it's essentially a RetorN3 without the Genesis. SNES and NES only, and like RetroBit's RetroDuo it only uses SNES controllers for both SNES and NES.

The RetorN3 has several revisions. No matter how you slice it the thing has problems.

The RetorN4 will likely be another revision of the RetorN3 that *hopefully* fixes problems and also adds new stuff.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

So if Retron 1,2 and 3 were bad (I've never seen them, I don't know) were they equally bad, or did each one make improvements over the last?

DP user Ace has done some really great writeups on the Retron 2 if you search for them.

Retron 1 is the Hyperkin branded Yobo "tissue-box" style NES/Famicom clone. It uses the most rudimentary NOAC hardware, has mono composite output and is not compatible with Castlevania 3. Personally I love the form factor and aesthetics of the little square box. It has actual NES controller inputs, the controllers it comes with are pretty decent and it will power a Famicom Disk System if you use a Famicom to NES adapter, which is a neat feature. Audio and color display can be spotty on these, but for the price and size, they are what they are.

http://hyperkin.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/m/0/m04041-rd_1.jpg

The Retron 2 is a NES/SNES duo system. As far as I'm aware, the NES side is about the same as the Retron 1, no Castlevania III. It comes with a clone NES style controller and a clone SNES style controller. Also takes real NES and SNES controllers. Unlike the retron 1 it has S-Video output for SNES. Like most SNES clones there are compatibility issues with any game that has lockout security chips. Again, audio and video can be spotty in general.

http://hyperkin.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/r/e/retron2_-_bk_1.jpg

The Retron 3 has NES, Genesis and Super NES slots. Real controller inputs for all three systems, and composite and S-video output. I believe that there are at least 3 revisions of the Retron 3, the earliest is not compatible with Castlevania III, the revisions however I believe are. Same issues as the other systems with color and audio, like most Genesis clones audio can be wonky or an octave "off". Again, form factor is the benefit here, having all three systems in one console is cool and convenient for those who aren't sticklers for 100% accuracy and just want to play some games. The Retron 3 comes with IR controllers that are fucking LAUGHABLY bad. I've actually played some systems with decent IR controllers, but HOLY CRAP the Retron 3 controllers are a fucking JOKE. If there's one place where I will unabashedly rail on Hyperkin it's the inclusion of those controllers.

http://gearpatrol.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/retron-3-gear-patrol.jpg

AS WITH ALL CLONES - and people who are REASONABLE with the expectations. They're a novelty, something to collect, or a substitute for real hardware, they are NEVER a replacement for the real thing.

The Retron 4 sounds pretty decent. I assume the GBA clone hardware is stuff that has been used in the knock-off GBA systems, which, while not 100% compatible are pretty good. I expect games that require more processing power to run a bit slow. HDMI output is probably going to just run at 240p, but if that at least means a nice clean signal I can deal with it.

The BLUETOOTH controllers are the thing that I'm most excited about the prospect of. HOPEFULLY they don't scrap that at the last minute.

*shrug* time will tell, we'll see.

[InsaneDavid]

The Retron 3 comes with IR controllers that are fucking LAUGHABLY bad. I've actually played some systems with decent IR controllers, but HOLY CRAP the Retron 3 controllers are a fucking JOKE. If there's one place where I will unabashedly rail on Hyperkin it's the inclusion of those controllers.

Every time I think of how bad the IR controllers on the Retron 3 are I'm reminded of that little AtGames Genesis clone with the SD card slot on the back, the one that had the fake Wii-esque controllers. That thing (the AtGames clone with no cartridge slot) has the best IR controllers of all time. At pretty much any position within 30 feet the controllers will respond without issue. I suppose the secret to good cheap IR is to coat the controller with IR emitters. LOL

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

Every time I think of how bad the IR controllers on the Retron 3 are I'm reminded of that little AtGames Genesis clone with the SD card slot on the back, the one that had the fake Wii-esque controllers. That thing (the AtGames clone with no cartridge slot) has the best IR controllers of all time. At pretty much any position within 30 feet the controllers will respond without issue. I suppose the secret to good cheap IR is to coat the controller with IR emitters. LOL

Yeah man, I have that thing and the IR sensors are the best I've ever used. IF ONLY it had all three standard Genesis buttons on the god damned thing instead of mapping C to the "waggle".

[Leo_A]

Too bad they didn't reuse the same thing for their wireless Atari Flashback 4 joysticks. Those have a much smaller sweet zone than that earlier Genesis clone did.

Thankfully with original joystick ports (Something that Genesis clone would've greatly benefited from), it's not much of a problem.

[Ace]

I'm going to add on to Frankie's post:


Retron 1 is the Hyperkin branded Yobo "tissue-box" style NES/Famicom clone. It uses the most rudimentary NOAC hardware, has mono composite output and is not compatible with Castlevania 3. Personally I love the form factor and aesthetics of the little square box. It has actual NES controller inputs, the controllers it comes with are pretty decent and it will power a Famicom Disk System if you use a Famicom to NES adapter, which is a neat feature. Audio and color display can be spotty on these, but for the price and size, they are what they are.

If you're thinking of the earliest FC Game Consoles released in 2005, those are completely different from the latest FC Game Consoles available since about 2009 or so. Those have much more accurate NOACs in them as does the RetroN1, but the RetroN1 has audio distortion issues due to a missing pull-down resistor on the audio output (there's no amp on this; just a single 10uF capacitor before the RCA jack).


The Retron 2 is a NES/SNES duo system. As far as I'm aware, the NES side is about the same as the Retron 1, no Castlevania III. It comes with a clone NES style controller and a clone SNES style controller. Also takes real NES and SNES controllers. Unlike the retron 1 it has S-Video output for SNES. Like most SNES clones there are compatibility issues with any game that has lockout security chips. Again, audio and video can be spotty in general.

From what I can with the little experience I had with the RetroN2, it really doesn't seem any different than the RetroN1 as an NES, but it does pass NES Composite through S-Video (much better than the RetroDuo does, if I may add). The Super NES side, though, is the worst of all the 2-in-1 clones as its S-Video, at least on my particular RetroN2 (I'm gonna get one of the newer ones as those now come with S-Video cables, so I'd be curious to see if anything's changed in that regard), was VERY highly prone to sync issues. No such problems with Composite, though the colors were a little dull. The audio is really where Hyperkin cheapened out as it's lacking a bit of bass, is garbled in certain games and is not in Stereo. It's dual Mono, and that is total crap.


The Retron 3 has NES, Genesis and Super NES slots. Real controller inputs for all three systems, and composite and S-video output. I believe that there are at least 3 revisions of the Retron 3, the earliest is not compatible with Castlevania III, the revisions however I believe are. Same issues as the other systems with color and audio, like most Genesis clones audio can be wonky or an octave "off". Again, form factor is the benefit here, having all three systems in one console is cool and convenient for those who aren't sticklers for 100% accuracy and just want to play some games. The Retron 3 comes with IR controllers that are fucking LAUGHABLY bad. I've actually played some systems with decent IR controllers, but HOLY CRAP the Retron 3 controllers are a fucking JOKE. If there's one place where I will unabashedly rail on Hyperkin it's the inclusion of those controllers.

DO NOT think the RetroN3 Version 3 plays Castlevania III because it does not. I have one and all the boards were changed in it. The Super NES/Genesis board was updated for the reduced-size TCT-970 clone Super NES chipset, but the audio is still the same excessively loud, bassless and distorted mess as it was on the Version 2. The Version 1 had low audio output for everything, but the Super NES audio was good despite less evident Stereo separation due to the NES single Mono to dual Mono split. The Version 1 also had a wiring error on the cartridge slot which caused Rad Racer II to short-circuit the console.

The NOAC is also worse than either the RetroN1 or RetroN2 as it suffers from the oh-so-common reversed duty cycles. All 3 hardware revisions also have problems with the Zapper and certain other NES controllers. The RetroN3 Version 1 was decent, the RetroN3 Version 2 was meh due to the Super NES audio having gone to shit, and the RetroN3 Version 3 is a total disaster (Hyperkin never even corrected the audio balance issues and reversed Stereo sound of the Genesis side in any of the hardware revisions).

And yeah, those wirless controllers are crap, particularly when your batteries aren't fresh. It will lag and miss button inputs like crazy.

[ZP3]

Did anyone have MAJOR compatibility problems with the Retron3? I had my expectations set low to begin with, but I have a stack of probably 15 NES games, 4 SNES games, and multiple Genesis games that will not play. Is this just my unit? Or is this something to be expected across the board?

[Pikointeractive]

Hey guys,

I know I already posted,

but you can get a Special Edition Packaging OFFICIAL Hyperkin Retron4 with the game that we are releasing on my kickstarter

Link:

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1449503299/super-4-in-1-multicart-for-the-snes

I really want to call the guy that says that has a review console out, cause there are no review consoles yet.

I can post updates about the packaging etc on the kickstarter when I get a green light from Hyperkin, which is right after that expo mentioned on the press release.


Another cool thing to add is that you will be able to play PAL games, even the ones that have software protection.

[Scavenger]

It wouldn't surprise me if the RetroN 4 is some sort of Android device with retrode like functionality running an emulator, especially because of the "perdana" interface.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

It wouldn't surprise me if the RetroN 4 is some sort of Android device with retrode like functionality running an emulator, especially because of the "perdana" interface.

Could be.

A menu-driven interface is very curious.

But this could be a good thing considering that most Android-based emulators for these systems have worked out a lot of the compatibility issues that on-a-chip emulators have.

[Compute]

It wouldn't surprise me if the RetroN 4 is some sort of Android device with retrode like functionality running an emulator, especially because of the "perdana" interface.

This. For some reason I was picturing an fpga-based solution, but Android something makes perfect sense. They'll be unveiling it at Midwest Gaming Classic 2013, and I am excited. I've never used a Hyperkin product, but if this is at least halfway decent I may pick one up. I remember being very excited about the GeneratioNEX, and the let-down from that. Maybe they got smart and just have it running an emulator.

From the MGC hype page (http://www.midwestgamingclassic.com/news/348/15/Hyperkin-To-Reveal-New-Retron-4-System-at-MGC/) :

When users boot up the machine, they will find the “Perdana” digital user interface which opens a wide variety of modern gaming features such as selecting systems, button reassignment and other features that will be named at the Midwest Gaming Classic

Also 2 of each controller port to cover all of the systems (that have controllers). Neat stuff.

[Satoshi_Matrix]

That prospect has me even more excited. Emulators that run the original game cartridge hardware? That's like......the best of both words, right there.

Maybe Hyperkin CAN do HDMI NES if they aren't using a NOAC any longer.

[Atarileaf]

Personally, I don't know much about these clones but a couple of years ago I picked up a boxed Yobo FC Twin at Value Village for $6.99 and haven't had any issues with it. Seems like a decent alternative if the real hardware isn't available.

[Ace]

Did anyone have MAJOR compatibility problems with the Retron3? I had my expectations set low to begin with, but I have a stack of probably 15 NES games, 4 SNES games, and multiple Genesis games that will not play. Is this just my unit? Or is this something to be expected across the board?

You seem to have a faulty unit. Out of all my NES, Super NES and Genesis games, there are only 5 which fail to work correctly (two don't work at all) on my RetroN3 Version 3. Those same 5 don't work on the RetroN3 Version 1, either (all 5 fail to work), but only 1 of those fail to work at all on the RetroN3 Version 2 (Virtua Racing), though there's still one NES game that fails to work correctly due to what I presume is a wiring error on the cartridge slot (After Burner). You should get that system exchanged.


That prospect has me even more excited. Emulators that run the original game cartridge hardware? That's like......the best of both words, right there.

Not if Hyperkin pulls off the same shit as AtGames did with their ARM emulation-based Geniclones. They combine software emulation with the use of original cartridges and do a VERY bad job at it. If Hyperkin pulls this crap on the RetroN4, and I wouldn't be surprised if they would as they've been half-assing everything since the RetroN3, you can expect the RetroN4 to be REALLY bad.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

You seem to have a faulty unit. Out of all my NES, Super NES and Genesis games, there are only 5 which fail to work correctly (two don't work at all) on my RetroN3 Version 3. Those same 5 don't work on the RetroN3 Version 1, either (all 5 fail to work), but only 1 of those fail to work at all on the RetroN3 Version 2 (Virtua Racing), though there's still one NES game that fails to work correctly due to what I presume is a wiring error on the cartridge slot (After Burner). You should get that system exchanged.



Not if Hyperkin pulls off the same shit as AtGames did with their ARM emulation-based Geniclones. They combine software emulation with the use of original cartridges and do a VERY bad job at it. If Hyperkin pulls this crap on the RetroN4, and I wouldn't be surprised if they would as they've been half-assing everything since the RetroN3, you can expect the RetroN4 to be REALLY bad.

Well, the arm-based Firecore stuff was Linux/Dingoo style emulation if I'm not mistaken, and while there are audio and video problems with that, at the end of the day, it's not really THAT much worse that what they do with the on-a-chip hardware.

However, if they can manage to scrape together an affordable Android chip-set for this thing, I know from experience that even the lowest of the low-end Android tech can handle NES, SNES, GBA and Genesis just fine.

I had all of those emulators running at a decent clip on my old Android G1 4 years ago, and the mid to low range stuff that's out there now is MORE than capable of running 10 times better than that.

My expectations are tempered, but I'd like it if they went the Android route.

[Ace]

Well, the arm-based Firecore stuff was Linux/Dingoo style emulation if I'm not mistaken, and while there are audio and video problems with that, at the end of the day, it's not really THAT much worse that what they do with the on-a-chip hardware.

WAY wrong, Frankie. It's nothing like that; the AtGames shit is a Titan ARM core with a custom-made emulator put on it. It's a total abomination.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

WAY wrong, Frankie. It's nothing like that; the AtGames shit is a Titan ARM core with a custom-made emulator put on it. It's a total abomination.

I stand corrected then!

I had read somewhere that they had used a linux-type OS for the firecore consoles with the SD slots. Didn't know it was all proprietary.

They totally have audio issues and some rom compatibility, but I still really like the Gopher and the Arcade Joystick.

[Pikointeractive]

hey guys, just confirmed that that the console is not emulation base but chip based.

I will post screen shots and video when I get it!

Confirmed: emulation based.

[Ace]

Reverse-enginnered hardware? Really? The only way to confirm this would be to show pictures of the motherboard. Looking forward to seeing what the RetroN4 is like.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

Well, whatever it is, I'm curious as hell. But, I always am!

[Satoshi_Matrix]

Like most retro gamers I of course have multiple ways of playing all four systems the RetorN4 offers and while the other three are interesting to me, what really has me interested is the prospect of HDMI NES. If Hyperkin manages to pull that off and pull it off well, everything else is just icing on the cake.

Pikointeractive, will you have a review unit ahead of its official release? If you will, please tell me and the rest of us about the NES video output. If it's not just composite through HDMI I'm automatically sold on this clone.

[Pikointeractive]

Idk if Im getting a review one, but for sure I get them as soon as release because the whole kickstarter Reward that I have to fulfill.



Ill keep everyone posted, the kickstarter will get the news first.

[shoeshot]

what really has me interested is the prospect of HDMI NES.
There is an actual HDMI NES mod for the Top Loader using the original PPU.... http://www.nintendoage.com/forum/messageview.cfm?catid=7&threadid=92557

[treismac]

There is an actual HDMI NES mod for the Top Loader using the original PPU.... http://www.nintendoage.com/forum/messageview.cfm?catid=7&threadid=92557

Bunnyboy of RetroZone is apparently still working on ironing out the bugs and compatibility issues, but he wrote that the HDMI modded Toploaders should be available by April. Wonder how much this will cost...

[Tanooki]

Wel bunny's stuff won't be cheap as you can see what a top loader will set you back. Then I'd figure if you don't buy an all completed project up front accounting for that, you'll need to offer up your system or one you bought, mail it in, pay for the labor, parts, and shipping. Wild guess but perhaps a couple hundred dollars?

RetroN4 I think I saw somewhere was looking at $80(?) for the system. Sure it won't be 100% accurate as bunny's stuff as it's real hardware being upgraded with HDMI parts, but it will cost a fraction of the price and run 3 more systems too at some level of compatibility. Given hyperkin over time has slowly made their NOAC more stable and the other two systems run admirably well, one could hope there will be more upgrades and fixes to this device to make it appealing as a must buy upgrade to existing owners and new people to win them over too.

[Pikointeractive]

It seems that the Retron4 will be emulation based.

[treismac]

The law of non-contradiction and these two statements can't be harmonized without some explanation:


hey guys, just confirmed that that the console is not emulation base but chip based.


It seems that the Retron4 will be emulation based.

[Satoshi_Matrix]

It seems that the Retron4 will be emulation based.

What is your evidence to that conclusion? Do you have some information the rest of us don't?

[recorderdude]

Why would they tell him specifically that it wasn't emu-based, but chip-based, then turn around again and say it was emu-based before it even releases?

Strange marketing, or someone who doesn't really know...

Also, think he knows a little more due to his 4 in 1 kickstarter involving retron 4s.

[markusman64ds]

Why would they tell him specifically that it wasn't emu-based, but chip-based, then turn around again and say it was emu-based before it even releases?.

Maybe it will use emulation for some systems and chips for the others.

[Satoshi_Matrix]

Pikointeractive, is your claim that the Retorn4 will either be chip based or emulation based mere speculation or do you actually have access to information Hyperkin hasn't publicly unveiled yet?

Because if you're only speculating, claiming that it WILL or it WON'T do anything at this point is completely meaningless and misleading.

[Pikointeractive]

Chill out guys,

That's why I came back to re-instate what I had said, no need to jump on judgement.


Just an answer from one contact, then confirmation from another contact of higher hierarchy.


I got video to post on the kickstarter but is is just digital video recorded from the output signal, not the actual console working on a HD TV.

and the whole menu for the Retron4 is not even used yet.

[Ace]

Any new news on the RetroN4 or is Hyperkin still keeping hush-hush about it?

[Az]

About the controllers, all I've heard confirmed was that it has wireless ones included, but no confirmation of being compatible with original controllers. Anyone heard different?

If I can't use original controllers and it has poor emulation or the same problems past clone hardware has, I see myself skipping this and spending the extra $10 on an Ouya.

The biggest point to me is using the original controllers. If I can't use my original MD or SNES pads on either, why choose an inferior gaming experience just because it accepts real carts? I prefer to emulate on my PSP versus using that shitty portable MD clone for the very same reason.

[Pikointeractive]

This info comes directly from my kickstarter, (http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1449503299/super-4-in-1-multicart-for-the-snes) which has the info of Hyperkin's press release

RetroN 4 Points of Interest:

· 2 Original Controller Ports for Each Platform (6 Total)
· Wireless Bluetooth Controller ·
4 Cartridge Ports for NES, SNES, Genesis and GBA cartridges
· HDMI Output with Digital Signal Conversion
· “Perdana” Digital User Interface
· PAL and NTSC compatible More details of the RetroN 4 will be announced during Hyperkin’s presentation at the Midwest Gaming Classic.

[tofu]

I received an advanced delivery of this product for review....

Bullshit.

Unless you are the Hyde to my Jekyll, there is no way you have an advanced review unit.

[Ed Oscuro]

What amazes me is the cost of a top loader. Especially if you want one complete in the box. Initially I refused to get one simply because of how it looked. Then I saw that it was actually inferior to the original. That made me glad I didn't cave and get one, just for the simple fact of owning one. The only advantage I see to the top loader is the 72 pin connector on the board, which would be less prone to breakage. Then again, I have enough 001s to never have to worry about broken parts. :)
I think Japanese toploaders are still quite cheap, even boxed in great shape. Possibly less than $100 (splitting the difference between $70 and $150; don't remember).

I wouldn't ever spend money on a toploader NES...not to keep, anyway.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

Bullshit.

Unless you are the Hyde to my Jekyll, there is no way you have an advanced review unit.

And for those of you who aren't in the know, Tofu is our direct liaison with Hyperkin.

So, yes.

Bullshit OFFICIALLY called.

Stop feeding the troll.

[Tanooki]

Add me to the didn't know list. He maybe late to the party, but he just buried anyones doubt on that moron. :) I'd love to get some more real information on this. I'm no fan of clones, but that said I do enjoy the Supaboy v2 a lot.

If he could pass it on, they need to fix that d-pad on it so it responds right and I did it on mine with a teeny piece of plastic I sanded to fit.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

Add me to the didn't know list. He maybe late to the party, but he just buried anyones doubt on that moron. :) I'd love to get some more real information on this. I'm no fan of clones, but that said I do enjoy the Supaboy v2 a lot.

If he could pass it on, they need to fix that d-pad on it so it responds right and I did it on mine with a teeny piece of plastic I sanded to fit.

Feel free to PM Tofu the link to your thread with your mod. He does work directly with the design people.

[hellraiser]

If this thing has decent Nes audio I will pick one up. I'm a very happy retro duo owner even with the bad audio but they never came out with a zapper.