Sugar Cube N97 Elite | Retro Form and Fun

This new Sugar Cube handheld might look like the Nokia 97 from 2009-10 but also operates similarly. No slide out keyboard this time but instead a slide out game controller.

Thanks to the NITRX Channel we have a video (which I got the images here from) and some images out there of the Sugar Cube N97. Love when we get to see some cool tech.

Using an older but never tired Snapdragon 855+ SOC, 12GB of RAM, 512GB ROM, 4.6” screen and slide out gamepad this new gaming handheld is for the true enthusiasts. The screen tilts when slid open at an angle to prevent strain and fatigue.

All this is packed and sold for less that Ayaneo’s Pocket Micro at around $200USD. Will we see this make its way outside of the Chinese markets? I hope so.

There are a few caveats going with a niche handheld like this. First of which is sacrificing the joysticks and then there is buttons laying very flat to the body not allowing for much movement. I’ve been trying to figure out of the face buttons are membranes or micro switches and I havnt found an answer (google translating reviews has been an adventure) but I’m assuming they are micro switch’s with such little travel space. The D in DPad here seems to mean disk which could be interesting if done correctly.

I’m going to try to get my hands on this. From the few reviews out there I know it truly exists but I’m uncertain if gamers like it or not. If nothing else it will look neat on the shelf. Also with the Snapdragon 855+ I’m assuming it’s Android so we should be able to run some lite Switch platforming and turn based titles.

I like carrying handhelds that get people out of their personal bubbles and asking me questions about them. It can only help the Retro Gaming space sharing cool tech that can bring back some warming nostalgia.

If I learn more as always I’ll let you know.

GameOn

CellPhish