Retro gaming enthusiasts, gather 'round! Today, we're delving into the world of the Laser Portable Gaming Projector, a device that promises to transport us back to the golden age of gaming. But is it a dream come true or a retro-themed nightmare? Let's find out.
The Promise of Retro Gaming
The Laser Portable Gaming Projector, priced at $299, boasts an underlying Android OS, a built-in projection screen, and a library of 80 games. It's an all-in-one solution for those seeking a blast from the past. But does it deliver on its promises?
A Mixed Bag of Features
On the plus side, the projector's portability and ease of setup are commendable. Its design is straightforward, with a rotating base for versatile projection. However, the devil is in the details.
The included controllers are a letdown, with a cheap plastic feel and a design that falls short of the iconic Sony DualShock. They're lightweight, which might be a concern for durability, especially with kids. And let's not forget the AAA batteries, an unexpected extra cost.
The projection screen, a simple white curtain, performs admirably, but it's the software that raises eyebrows. The projector runs on Android 13, which limits its future compatibility with updated streaming apps. This could impact its longevity as a general-purpose projector.
Retro Gaming Reality Check
The Laser Portable Gaming Projector's gaming capabilities are where things get interesting, or rather, where they fall short. The "Game Box" app, a launcher for various emulators, is functional but sluggish. Response times are an issue, whether using the remote, included controllers, or even a Bluetooth controller.
And then there's the game library. Laser's promotional material hints at classic titles like Metal Slug, Mortal Kombat, and Street Fighter II, but these are nowhere to be found. Instead, the projector relies on a licensing deal with PIKO Interactive, a company that has acquired the rights to various classic gaming developers' titles.
While PIKO Interactive's efforts to keep retro games alive are commendable, the reality is that many of the included games haven't aged well. Wisdom Tree's Christian-themed games, for example, were awful in the '90s and haven't improved with time. It's a case of finding gems amidst the dross, and there's a lot more dross than gems here.
Performance and Value
Performance-wise, the projector struggles with basic emulation, resulting in noticeable input lag and audio issues. The 720p resolution is workable, but the processing power and emulation capabilities leave much to be desired.
As for value, it's a tricky proposition. The price is on the higher side for a basic 720p projector, but it does come with an Android TV system and licensed games. However, the lack of classic titles and the overall performance issues undermine its value proposition.
Final Thoughts
The Laser Portable Gaming Projector is an intriguing concept, but it falls short of delivering a satisfying retro gaming experience. The included games are a mixed bag, and the hardware struggles to keep up. While the idea of an all-in-one retro gaming solution is appealing, this particular projector needs a significant upgrade to realize its full potential.
In my opinion, if you're craving a retro gaming fix, you'd be better off dusting off your old console. At least it's designed to play games! This projector, while interesting, is not ideal for gamers and is difficult to recommend as it stands.
