In a time when handheld gaming consoles keep getting shinier, pricier, and more hyped thanks to constant new releases and looming tariffs, the Retro Game Corps is here to remind us of a refreshingly timeless truth: sometimes, the best device is the one already in your hands—or one that’s a little older and a whole lot cheaper. In his video “Maybe You Don’t Need the Shiny New Thing?”, Russ makes a compelling case for appreciating the gear you already own instead of chasing each new flashy gadget. With rising costs and slower innovation, it might actually be a golden age to buy secondhand or rediscover the hidden power in the tools on your shelf. It’s part nostalgia, part practicality, and a whole lot of real-talk for gamers and gadget-lovers who are feeling the itch to upgrade.

Key Points:

• Russ (Retro Game Corps) encourages viewers to reflect before buying the latest handheld gaming device—especially as prices rise due to global tariffs and inflation.

• He argues that many older devices, like the Miyoo Mini Plus or Retroid Pocket 2+, still offer great gaming experiences and can handle extensive software libraries with ease.

• “You don’t always need the shiniest new thing to enjoy yourself,” Russ says, referencing how many handhelds from just a year or two ago are still highly capable, customizable, and well-supported by open-source communities.

• He presents examples of well-loved older handhelds that often get overlooked in the hype of new releases, emphasizing how firmware updates and community support can breathe new life into them.

• Refurbished or used models are a great gateway for first-time retro handheld buyers, or for those on a budget.

• PSA: Device review culture often over-emphasizes minor feature improvements—so decide what matters most to you (battery life, screen quality, portability, etc.) and don’t get swept away by marketing.

• Top already-recommended handhelds include: Retroid Pocket 2+, Anbernic RG351MP, and the Miyoo Mini (with OnionOS for better UI and performance).

• The video also nods to the pressure of “FOMO” around tech launches, warning viewers to think critically before shelling out for marginal upgrades.

Bottom line? There's wisdom—and value—in sticking with what you have, or exploring the used market, instead of chasing every shiny new drop. As Russ puts it: “Enjoy the one you’ve got. Chances are, it’s already better than you think.”
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