ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro
Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro.
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The 8Bitdo FlipPad doesn't quite perfect turning your phone into a Game Boy, but I'd absolutely recommend it for cheeky Pokemon sessions
The 8Bitdo FlipPad offers a sleek and tactile way to turn a smartphone into a retro handheld, particularly for games like Pokemon and The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. Its clever hinge mechanism allows quick access to the phone screen, and the clicky dome buttons provide satisfying input. However, its reliance on a specific phone case thickness for a flush fit and the lack of Bluetooth connectivity limit its versatility compared to competitors.
I placed two Game Boy controllers in the hands of a casual retro gamer, but the "winner" comes with caveats
A comparison of the 8Bitdo FlipPad and GameSir Pocket Taco Game Boy controllers reveals the FlipPad as the preferred choice for casual retro gamers, despite its wiggly USB-C connector. The FlipPad's sleek design and tactile buttons were favored over the GameSir Pocket Taco's bulkier build and mushy membrane buttons, though the latter offers shoulder buttons and broader compatibility.
"Looks more like a Long Boi" - I accidentally created a Razer Game Boy using the 8Bitdo FlipPad, and its absurd length is actually great for TATE shmups
The 8Bitdo FlipPad controller, when paired with the Razer Edge handheld, creates an unusually long gaming device that excels at TATE mode shmups. While not compatible with all phones like the Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro, this "Razer Game Boy" offers a larger play window than the Analogue Pocket for vertical shooters.
8Bitdo's FlipPad controller lands today, and for under $30, it could beat my go-to Game Boy controller
8Bitdo has released its new FlipPad controller, designed to turn smartphones into Game Boy-style devices for under $30. The controller attaches via USB-C and offers a physical D-pad and face buttons. It is positioned as a competitor to the GameSir Pocket Taco, which offers similar functionality but with Bluetooth connectivity and a built-in battery for a slightly higher price.
How Free-to-Try Gaming Culture Changed What Players Expect from Bonuses - Walkthrough, Tips, Review
The gaming industry's normalization of free-to-try models, including demos and free-to-play, has shifted player expectations towards transparency and fairness, influencing other digital entertainment sectors like casino bonuses. This principle of proving value before commitment has led to the rise of no-wagering bonuses in casinos, mirroring gaming's approach to building player loyalty through trust and generosity. The article argues that this gaming-influenced demand for fairness and value is becoming the baseline expectation for consumers across various digital platforms.