The Evercade Nexus: Value and Features
I don’t think an $1,800 Xbox is cool, but spending time with the Evercade Nexus has made the price feel absurd. I enjoy next‑gen consoles and high‑end PCs, yet the new handheld isn’t a direct rival to Blaze’s device. At a moment when console prices are soaring toward used‑car levels, I’d rather back a platform that promotes physical, accessible gaming.
Evercade Nexus and Banjo-Kazooie Twin Bundle: $199.99
The Evercade Nexus may lack the most advanced features, but its 5.98‑inch IPS display, dual joysticks, and dedication to physical cartridges make it a winner. If you’re already invested in the cartridge ecosystem, this upgrade grants access to over 700 indie classics for far less than the cost of an Xbox Project Helix or PS6. The idea of sticking with Evercade games makes a lot of sense when next‑gen consoles could cost between $1,200 and $1,800, and physical media may be scarce.
(Image credit: Phil Hayton)
The Evercade brand started as a niche wearable, but after more than 700 releases and numerous hardware revisions, Blaze has built a full‑fledged platform that offers offline access to classic and indie titles. You can choose the cheaper Super Pocket for $69.99, or the Evercade Alpha, a bartop arcade that functions as a standalone console, if you want something extra.
What makes the Nexus stand out as a daily driver is its more contemporary handheld feel, which is helpful for ports like the Banjo‑Kazooie collection. While the symmetrical joysticks on the bottom aren’t perfect, the full 3D controls and larger screen mitigate the novelty factor, making it feel less like a gimmick and more like a real handheld.
(Image credit: Phil Hayton)
In an era where companies that respect gamers’ desire to own and play without outrageous fees deserve support, Blaze is a clear example. Its ongoing release of new cartridges with manuals, folding cases, and a mix of emulated classics and original ports is impressive. If you want fresh games without breaking the bank, the Evercade Nexus is a practical choice, allowing you to replay titles like Banjo‑Kazooie and Legacy of Kain instead of financing a $1,800 next‑gen console. Choose the best retro controllers for modern gamepads with an authentic classic feel.
