Analogue's Latest Retro Gaming Console Runs CD-ROMs and Supports Wireless Controllers

Analogue is well known for creating some incredible high-end, high-definition retro consoles based on classic machines like the Sega Genesis and Super Nintendo.

Now the company is turning its attention to NEC's classic systems with another retro console called the Duo. The Duo can read any media produced for original TurboGrafx systems, including those that require the Arcade RAM add-on, as well as the few titles that took advantage of the more-powerful hardware in the "SuperGrafx" console, which flopped in Japan and didn't see a U.S. release.

According to the company, the Duo can play TurboGrafx-16, PC Engine, SuperGrafx, TurboGrafx CD, PC Engine CD-ROM, and Super Arcade CD-Rom games.

The Analogue Duo isn't portable like the Pocket, but it holds the promise of playing all NEC system games without emulation. There's no release date yet, but limited quantities will be available next year with the console costing $199.99. The chip is also versatile, which is why the Duo can play multiple NEC system games. The Duo also supports 2.4g and Bluetooth and will sync up with any wireless 8BitDo Bluetooth or 2.4g controller directly.

One of the best features of the new Analogue Duo is that in addition to an original TurboGrafx-16 port and USB for connecting wired controllers, the new console features both Bluetooth and wireless 2.4GHz connectivity built right in so up to four controllers can easily be connected without the need for wrangling dongles or having to first connect a wireless receiver to one of the console's ports.

The duo uses HDMI so it can output 1080p images. Because of how the FPGA chip works and how powerful it is, the picture quality is sharp, clear, and accurate. Additionally, the latest Analogue Duo features an original-style cartridge slot, controller port and CD-ROM drive, making it compatible for game formats like Hucards, TurboChips, and CD-ROM.

The Analogue Duo itself will be available for $ 200 ($ 283) next year. Most mini consoles rely on software emulation, but Analogue's approach ensures that every single game ever released for a given console plays perfectly on the replicated hardware - and sometimes even better.

As a bonus, Analogue also announced a new adapter for Analogue Pocket which supports TurboGrafx-16 cartridges.