After extended unavailability at U.S. retailers, Evercade`s retro gaming systems have restocked. Both the Evercade EXP-R handheld and the VS-R home console are now available for $130 each, featuring a special bundle that includes the Tomb Raider I-III Collection. These systems come in a distinctive charcoal gray with turquoise highlights. The initial launch of these Tomb Raider bundles faced significant stock shortages, which were exacerbated by U.S. tariffs, contributing to a $30 price hike. While popular Street Fighter and Mega Man Evercade Bartop Arcades are still out of stock, eager fans can pre-order the Evercade Alpha Taito Bartop Arcade for $260, with an expected release date of November 12.
Blaze Entertainment`s Evercade line offers retro gaming through a cartridge-based hardware system. Since its introduction in 2020, over 75 Evercade cartridges have been released, encompassing almost 50 console game compilations, 20 arcade game compilations, and 10 home computer titles. While some collections are no longer in production, a wide selection of cartridges remains available at or near their original retail price. These collections often feature classic 8-bit and 16-bit games, alongside a selection of N64 and PS1 titles, such as the initial Tomb Raider trilogy and Legacy of Kain. Additionally, Evercade boasts exclusive enhanced versions of retro classics, like Duke Nukem 1 + 2 Remastered, and supports modern indie titles with a retro feel, including the GBA-style platformer Goodboy Galaxy and the Amiga-developed tower defense game Roguecraft.
Evercade EXP-R Handheld – Tomb Raider Bundle Details
The Evercade EXP-R handheld features a sharp 4.3-inch IPS display with an 800×480 resolution. Its 8-way D-pad, face buttons, triggers, and shoulder buttons offer excellent responsiveness. The device is ergonomically designed and boasts solid build quality, though its dimensions (7.76 x 3.1 x 0.8 inches) might make it less `pocketable` for some. Audio is delivered via a robust stereo speaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The EXP-R charges via USB-C, providing 4-5 hours of playtime per charge, and supports Wi-Fi for firmware updates. A unique `TATE mode` is supported by two face buttons positioned below the D-pad, ideal for vertically oriented arcade games. While primarily relying on cartridges, the EXP-R also includes over 10 hidden digital games accessible through a `Secret menu` or specific button inputs.
Evercade VS-R Home Console – Tomb Raider Bundle Details
The Evercade VS-R home console mirrors the core functionality of the EXP-R but is optimized for TV play and multiplayer experiences. It connects to a display via HDMI, outputting at 1080p. The VS-R features two cartridge slots and four USB controller ports, accommodating multiple players. Each bundle comes with one wired controller, though extra VS-R controllers are available separately. Many existing wired controllers are also compatible. For wireless gameplay, the 8BitDo Wireless USB Adapter 2 (often discounted) is highly recommended, as it enables compatibility with 8BitDo Bluetooth controllers, as well as controllers from major brands like Nintendo, Microsoft, and Sony. The VS-R incorporates a front-loading design, reminiscent of the NES, where a hatch reveals the cartridge slots. It also boasts more hidden games than the EXP-R, with at least 13 additional titles unlocking when two specific Evercade cartridges are inserted simultaneously. The console bundle includes the console itself, a wired controller, the Tomb Raider Collection, a USB power cord, and an HDMI cable.
Across Evercade`s extensive library of classic and retro-inspired games, players benefit from features such as save states and comprehensive button mapping. Input configurations can be adjusted globally within the system`s home menu or tailored for individual games. Users can select from three aspect ratio options: Original, Full Screen, and Pixel Perfect. To enhance the vintage aesthetic, scanline filters can be applied to mimic CRT television displays, and various bezel options are available for games that don`t fully occupy the screen.
Evercade Super Pocket Series
For those seeking a more portable Evercade experience, Blaze Entertainment`s subsidiary, Hyper Mega Tech, offers the Super Pocket series. These handheld devices feature a vertical orientation and a design reminiscent of the Game Boy Pocket. Each Super Pocket includes a 2.8-inch IPS display with a 320×240 resolution. Every model comes preloaded with games from a particular publisher and is fully compatible with the broader Evercade cartridge library. Recent releases, the Neo Geo and Data East models, became available in June for $70 each. The initial Capcom and Taito Super Pockets are currently available for $60 each.
Available Super Pocket Models:
- Neo Geo Super Pocket (14 Games) — $70
- Data East Super Pocket (18 Games) — $70
- Capcom Super Pocket (12 Games) — $60
- Taito Super Pocket (17 Games) — $60
- Technos Super Pocket (15 Games) — $65
- Atari Super Pocket (50 Games) — Sold out
Evercade Alpha Taito Bartop Arcade
The Evercade Alpha Bartop Arcade provides a compact home arcade experience, featuring an 8-inch display, two cartridge slots, a high-quality arcade stick, and six buttons. Similar to the VS-R, it supports both wired and wireless controllers, with compatibility for the 8BitDo USB Adapter 2, though it accommodates up to two players instead of four. For enthusiasts desiring a space-efficient arcade cabinet, the Evercade Alpha is a strong recommendation, praised for its premium construction and the extensive game library accessible through its cartridge system. The forthcoming Taito Bartop Arcade model, themed with Bubble Bobble artwork, will include 10 preloaded games.
Preloaded Games:
- Bubble Bobble
- Puzzle Bobble
- Space Invaders
- Cadash
- Rastan
- Elevator Action
- The FairyLand Story
- Growl
- The Legend of Kage
- The New Zealand Story