Review: Hyperkin SupaBoy – A Portable Console for SNES Enthusiasts

The Hyperkin SupaBoy is a dream come true for retro gaming fans who want to take their classic SNES and Super Famicom cartridges on the go. But does it deliver on its promise of nostalgia with modern convenience? Let’s dive in.

Design & Build Quality: A Sturdy and Compact Retro Handheld

From the moment I took the SupaBoy out of the box, I was immediately impressed by its solid build quality and lightweight design. It’s compact enough to slip into a backpack, yet sturdy enough to handle long gaming sessions.

✅ Lightweight & Portable –Perfect for travel.

✅ Comfortable Ergonomics – Designed for extended play sessions.

✅ Responsive Controls – A D-pad reminiscent of the original SNES controller, giving it an authentic feel.

💡 Bonus Feature: It even allows you to connect an original SNES controller, offering a true home console experience on the go.

Display & Performance: Retro Graphics with a Modern Touch

One of the standout features of the SupaBoy is its vibrant and clear screen. While it’s not the largest display, it’s crisp, colorful, and perfectly suited for classic 16-bit gaming.

✔️ Handles Fast-Paced Games Smoothly – No noticeable lag or screen tearing.

✔️ Territory Switch (NTSC & PAL Support) – Easily toggles between different cartridge regions.

✔️ Runs a Wide Range of Titles – From classics like R-Type, Final Fight, and Street Fighter II to obscure RPGs like Chrono Trigger.

💡 Pro Tip: If a game gives a territory error, simply toggle the NTSC/PAL switch and reset—a fantastic feature that ensures compatibility across regions.

Gameplay Experience: A Nostalgic Yet Upgraded Feel

From the moment I booted up my favorite SNES titles, I was struck by how natural and intuitive the SupaBoy feels in my hands. The button layout and tactile feedback make it a joy to play, and the console does justice to the original gaming experience.

🎮 Standout Features:

✅ Tactile and Responsive Buttons – Feels like playing on an original SNES controller.

✅ Enhanced Retro Experience – Maintains the original charm while offering modern enhancements.

✅ Long Battery Life – Ideal for long gaming sessions while traveling.

Whether it was fighting my way through Street Fighter II or battling in Contra III, the controls felt precise and immersive.

Final Verdict: Is the SupaBoy Worth It?

If you’re a retro gaming enthusiast, the SupaBoy is one of the best ways to enjoy your SNES library on the go. Whether you’re a collector, a casual gamer, or even a game developer looking for inspiration, this handheld console is a must-have.

🔹 What’s your favorite SNES game? Let me know in the comments below!

👉 If you enjoyed this review, be sure to like and share! 🎮🚀