MagicX Unveils Retro DS: Dual-Screen Handheld Mimics Nintendo 3DS Design

MagicX, a recognized name in the emulation handheld industry, has officially announced its ambitious product roadmap for the remainder of 2025 and beyond.

Standing out among the lineup is the newly unveiled Retro DS, a dual-screen handheld that closely emulates the form factor and user experience of Nintendo's legendary 3DS system.

The Retro DS follows in the footsteps of MagicX’s earlier device, the Zero 40, but with significant upgrades.

Where the Zero 40 employed a single portrait-oriented display to simulate the dual screens of the original Nintendo DS, the Retro DS raises the bar by equipping itself with two physical screens: a 4.1-inch, 1280x720 resolution upper display, and a 3.4-inch, 960x720 bottom display.

Although these resolutions do not replicate Nintendo’s original hardware exactly, they closely resemble the layout of the 3DS, which also featured a larger upper screen above a smaller lower one. Reflecting on the design, the Retro DS also introduces dual analogue pads reminiscent of the controls found on the 3DS family of systems.

While the original Nintendo 3DS launched with just one analogue pad, users could later opt for the Circle Pad Pro accessory for an additional stick, and the subsequent New 3DS revision integrated a secondary 'nub.' MagicX has modeled its new handheld most closely on the 2DS hardware that debuted in 2013, especially in terms of its flat, unified structure. During the official announcement, MagicX emphasized user-focused improvements.

“Our aim is to deliver an authentic dual-screen handheld experience for retro gaming fans,” company representatives explained, highlighting the new design and hardware choices. While MagicX has not confirmed official support for Nintendo 3DS emulation, the hardware’s dual-screen architecture and the inclusion of twin analogue controls suggest a system that could appeal strongly to retro and modern gaming enthusiasts.

As with many MagicX devices, the Retro DS is expected to run Android OS, opening access to a wide ecosystem of emulators available through the Google Play Store or direct downloads.

This, combined with sufficient processing power, should make running Nintendo DS and potentially even 3DS games feasible for users—though autostereoscopic 3D (the hallmark feature of the original 3DS) is not included in the display. The Retro DS isn’t the only device MagicX plans to launch over the coming year.

The company’s 2025 schedule includes other models such as the Two 45—another portrait-style handheld—the horizontally oriented Two 48, and the upcoming One 35 and Retro 45, both slated for a September release.

Rounding out the product line are the Whirl V45 and V48, expanding options for gamers seeking diverse form factors and functionalities. With the introduction of the Retro DS and its lineup of devices targeting the retro and emulation handheld market, MagicX further solidifies its reputation as a forward-thinking manufacturer willing to innovate in the competitive world of portable gaming technology.

Nintendo 3DS Nintendo 3DS Xbox Series X|S DS MagicX Retro DS Zero 40 Nintendo DS Android Two 45 Two 48 One 35 Retro 45 Whirl V45 V48