If 2021 is anything like 2020 was, it will be another great year for retro handheld gaming. I was looking forward to reviewing the Anbernic RG351V soon but 8 days after ordering I don't think it has even shipped out yet...
With that said, there are definitely some other options on my radar. Everything listed below are options I'm considering purchasing at some point.
GameForce RK3326
Yet another RK3326 ... but this one has a proper 4:3 aspect screen joining the 351V as the only RK3326 devices with a good screen ratio for retro gaming. The last I heard, the GameForce was in mass production and would likely sell for $89.99. The console itself looks kind of weird but it also looks likely to be ergonomic and comfortable to use.
The negatives with the GameForce seem to be that the screen is plastic not glass and no clickable sticks neither of which is a total deal breaker in the sub $100 category. Hopefully the release date will happen soon. Functionally the GameForce is not really necessary as it's nearly outdated before it comes out but I do like the idea of supporting a more independent developer by buying one when it comes out.
The rumor is that the GF will be sold at the URL gameforce.fun but nothing is live as of yet.
Retroid Pocket 3
With the success of the Retroid Pocket 2, there will most likely be a Retroid Pocket 3 at some point in 2021. There are rumors swirling around about it but nothing solid. If they increase the onboard storage or go to a dual micro SD slot setup and add in touch screen this time, it will be a day one buy for me.
MicroByte
I'm not the biggest fan of the micro systems due to having large hands but the MicroByte certainly looks interesting for the open hardware DIY fans.
Non Budget
There are a few pricier (non Budget) options coming out in the near future like the PowKiddy X18S (which had been delayed to mid-April), the mysterious 199 Handheld running Android 10, the KT R1 which appears to be like a Retroid Pocket 2 on steroids, PiBoy CM4X, and the PiBoy XRS.