Hyperkin RetroN GX: PC Engine/TG-16 Clone Receives August 2025 Release Date and Firmware Upgrades

Hyperkin RetroN GX: PC Engine/TG-16 Clone Receives August 2025 Release Date and Firmware Upgrades Retro gaming enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting the Hyperkin RetroN GX, a dedicated PC Engine and TurboGrafx-16 (TG-16) clone designed to bring classic 8-bit experiences to modern audiences.

First unveiled in 2022, the RetroN GX leverages software emulation to replicate the gameplay and charm of NEC and Hudson's renowned hardware, offering a cost-effective alternative to premium FPGA-based solutions such as the Analogue Duo.

Hyperkin’s latest update confirms the console’s official release date has now shifted to August 20th, 2025, after originally targeting a May launch earlier in the year.

Priced at $99.99, customers will be able to order the unit through Amazon and the Hyperkin website, though current pricing may still reflect old listings. The announcement was accompanied by a new video, in which Hyperkin spotlighted significant firmware enhancements aimed at addressing initial feedback from the retro gaming community.

Early impressions shared by YouTube channels including Gamesack and MetalJesusRocks highlighted issues such as inconsistent compatibility across the PC Engine library and frame rate pacing problems.

In response, Hyperkin’s latest firmware substantially improves system performance, with patch notes detailing notable upgrades to frame rates, audio fidelity, and overall user interface responsiveness—all intended to deliver on the company’s promise of an authentic and enjoyable classic gaming experience. The RetroN GX builds on Hyperkin’s legacy of accessible retro consoles, incorporating a robust feature set to appeal to veteran gamers and newcomers alike.

Key features include hot-swappable cartridge support, enabling users to switch games without powering down the hardware, and native 720p HD output with selectable 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios.

Customizable video enhancements, such as CRT-style scanlines, black-and-white mode, and a smooth filter, allow players to tailor their visuals.

Gameplay quality-of-life options such as quick saves, save states, and a unique 12-frame rewind function help tackle tough retro titles.

Connectivity is a focus as well, with two USB ports for newer controllers and the inclusion of Hyperkin’s own Specialist Controller in the package. The console’s compatibility is limited to original game cartridges, and notedly does not support flash cartridges like the Turbo Everdrive.

However, users can expect reliable performance for their PC Engine and TurboGrafx-16 collections at a competitive entry-level price point.

While the RetroN GX foregoes CD-based support—a feature reserved for higher-end solutions like the Analogue Duo—it presents a compelling value proposition for those seeking straightforward access to classic games. With a newly confirmed launch date and meaningful updates anchored in community feedback, the Hyperkin RetroN GX is poised to be a notable addition to the expanding retrogaming hardware landscape.

For collectors and nostalgia-driven players, this modern take on iconic 8-bit gameplay is shaping up to deliver on both price and performance.

PC Hyperkin PC Engine TurboGrafx-16 RetroN GX TG-16 Gamesack MetalJesusRocks Amazon Nintendo Nintendo Switch Analogue Duo Guinea Pig Games NEC Hudson