GoRetroid Faces Backlash over Retroid Pocket Mini Return Policy and Announces AMOLED Partnership

GoRetroid, the company behind the Retroid Pocket Mini handheld console, is under increased scrutiny from the handheld gaming community after recent revelations concerning its return policy and efforts to address persistent screen issues.

The Retroid Pocket Mini, a compact retro gaming handheld designed to compete in the vibrant handheld and retro market, has been lauded for its form factor but recently faced criticism over hardware limitations.

The trouble began when GoRetroid acknowledged a critical and unfixable screen-scaling issue affecting the Retroid Pocket Mini.

Users reported that the device fails to scale correctly to its intended 980p resolution, an issue particularly pronounced when utilizing CRT and pixel effect shaders.

This hardware-based flaw cannot be corrected via a firmware update, a fact confirmed in statements from GoRetroid and widely reported by outlets such as Retro Handhelds. Initially, GoRetroid assured its community on Discord that it would seek a solution and promised it would not "leave anyone out to dry." However, as the company concluded the issue was unresolvable, users began to face difficulties when attempting to initiate returns.

A support email surfaced on Reddit, highlighting that GoRetroid may have "overcommitted in [its] discussions on Discord," leaving some customers dissatisfied with the response. In response to mounting community feedback, GoRetroid amended its course, posting on Discord that Retroid Pocket Mini owners would be eligible for a $10 discount on select upcoming products, including the Retroid Flip 2 and Retroid Pocket Classic, as well as the option to return their devices.

Notably, the return program was stated to be limited to 200 overseas units, with customers responsible for shipping costs—a restriction that ignited further frustration.

The return window, only open from March 8th to March 14th, further narrowed customer recourse, leading to criticism from influential voices in the retro handheld scene, including YouTuber Retro Game Corps, who also provided an in-depth look at the issue in a recent video. Despite this, reports from Retro Game Corps indicate that GoRetroid has not consistently enforced the 200-unit return limit, instead offering discounted or reimbursed shipping in certain cases.

This flexible approach may help to restore some trust between GoRetroid and its user base. Looking to the future, GoRetroid has announced a significant development: a partnership with one of China's largest AMOLED panel manufacturers.

The company revealed it is working on a custom display to address the scaling issue in a future revision of the Mini, potentially slated for release within the next 12 months.

In recognition of existing Mini owners' patience, GoRetroid plans to offer discounts to those affected by the screen problem when the revised device launches. As GoRetroid navigates this challenging period, its willingness to refine return protocols and invest in hardware improvements will be closely watched by both customers and industry observers.

These developments highlight not just the growing pains of a hardware developer in the competitive handheld market, but also the increasing demand for accountability and quality within the retro gaming community.

Retroid GoRetroid Retroid Pocket Mini AMOLED Retro Game Corps AMOLED panel manufacturer Nintendo Switch Retro Handhelds Retroid Flip 2 Retroid Pocket Classic