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This RG modular handheld concept was designed by an Anbernic fan, not Anbernic

u/Snoo_6285's modular handheld concept lets users swap control layouts depending on the game.
ⓘ u/Snoo_6285 on Reddit
u/Snoo_6285's modular handheld concept lets users swap control layouts depending on the game.
A fan-made modular handheld concept for Anbernic is attracting a lot of attention on Reddit, featuring swappable control modules and battery expansion. The community design addresses long-standing trade-offs in retro gaming hardware.

Anbernic recently launched the RG Rotate, and community designers are already riffing off the design of the original. A concept by Reddit user Snoo_6285 is circulating on r/SBCGaming. It proposes a modular handheld that lets users swap control layouts depending on the game. This "RG Modular" idea doesn't take the philosophy of a "one-size-fits-all" design too seriously.

The concept is designed around a core screen unit with magnetic or rail-based attachment points. The base model for such a device would likely ship with a simple D-pad module for arcade titles, while more advanced modules - like a horizontal grip with dual analog sticks or a full QWERTY keyboard - would be available as add-ons. Some people added that these modules could even serve as external batteries.

Scrolling through the replies, several practical hurdles were brought to light. While the aesthetic is undoubtedly clean, users mentioned that a D-pad-only module might make the device feel top-heavy. There is also an ongoing debate regarding connection standards. Many argue for Pogo pin connectors or magnets over traditional rails to minimize mechanical wear.

The discussion also touched on screen ratios. The concept looks sleek, sure, but some players warned that a widescreen ratio could make certain retro consoles unplayable on a smaller screen. They suggested sticking to a 4:3 ratio to maintain the device's portability and focus. Comparisons were also made to the "Sega Tower of Power" - some users joked that they would buy 14 different modules just to have every possible configuration.

At the end of the day, this is a fan project and not even close to an official Anbernic announcement. Granted, similar designs like the OneX Sugar and GameMT E5 ModX do exist, but they are more than often expensive and eyed by collectors. The RG Modular is more of a look at what enthusiasts really want: a device that can adapt to the software rather than forcing the player to compromise.

Buy the Anbernic RG35XX Pro on Amazon.

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > News > News Archive > Newsarchive 2026 05 > This RG modular handheld concept was designed by an Anbernic fan, not Anbernic
Anubhav Sharma, 2026-05-13 (Update: 2026-05-13)