Analogue Duo

Because of the very nature of it, you probably already know if you want the Analogue Duo. Chances are, if you’re a real PC Engine head, you’ve already got a pre-order in. But even for those outside that group, it’s a lovely device - if pricey for such a narrow niche. I’m enjoying the history lesson it’s opening up to me - while pining still for the Analogue 3D, out next year. My N64 cart collection is waiting.

Some of the software still isn’t done, which is something of an Analogue tradition at this point, so I wasn’t able to test the save-state functionality yet. But I also wasn’t able to test the jailbreak, and it’s hard to consider this piece of hardware without that bonus — but vital! — piece of context. I’ll update this review once Analogue releases whatever it’s going to release, but until then, you already know if the Duo is for you.

There’s only room for improvement because Analogue allowed it to be there. I’d still be recommending the Analogue Duo to my fellow niche-goblins even if there weren’t still forthcoming firmware improvements. It’s a slick modern version of the TurboGrafx 16/PC-Engine that brings the retro platform into the present with a 1080p HDMI output and other modern comforts. You can tell the team was passionate about the project because they were clearly insistent on getting it right on the first try.

Analogue knows Duo isn’t for “most people.” If you’re legit looking to start a PC Engine collection, if you’re a PC Engine freak who covets their carefully assembled hoard of vintage discs and HuCards, or if you just own and enjoy Analogue’s prior NES, Genesis, or SNES clones, then Analogue Duo, as it currently exists, may well be a good fit for your needs.