How to Get Started with Retro Gaming in 2026 — A Beginner's Guide
Retro gaming is having a massive moment. Whether you're rediscovering the games you grew up with or exploring classic titles for the first time, getting started has never been easier — or more affordable. This guide covers everything a complete beginner needs to know.
What Is Retro Gaming?
Retro gaming means playing games from older console generations — typically from the 1980s through early 2000s. Think Super Mario Bros (NES), Sonic the Hedgehog (Mega Drive), The Legend of Zelda (SNES), Final Fantasy VII (PS1), and thousands more.
Modern retro handheld consoles use emulation — software that recreates the original hardware — to play these games on a portable device with a modern screen, rechargeable battery, and save states.
Step 1: Choose Your Console
For beginners in Australia, we recommend the R36S. It's affordable ($79 AUD), comes with 15,000+ games pre-loaded, and works out of the box with zero setup required.
If you want a more detailed comparison, check our Best Retro Handhelds 2026 ranking.
Step 2: Charge and Play
Modern retro handhelds are plug and play. Charge via USB-C, power on, and start scrolling through thousands of games. No login, no downloads, no internet required. Just pick a game and go.
Step 3: Explore Different Platforms
The best part of retro gaming is discovering classics from platforms you never owned. Here's what each platform offers:
| Platform | Era | Must-Play Games |
|---|---|---|
| NES | 1985–1995 | Super Mario Bros 3, Mega Man 2, Castlevania |
| SNES | 1990–1997 | Chrono Trigger, Super Metroid, Zelda: A Link to the Past |
| GBA | 1989–2006 | Pokemon, Advance Wars, Metroid Fusion |
| Mega Drive | 1988–1997 | Sonic 2, Streets of Rage 2, Phantasy Star IV |
| PS1 | 1994–2004 | Final Fantasy VII, Metal Gear Solid, Crash Bandicoot |
| N64 | 1996–2002 | Ocarina of Time, Mario 64, GoldenEye 007 |
Step 4: Use Save States
Unlike original hardware, retro handhelds let you save your progress at any point — even in games without save features. This is called a "save state" and it completely changes the experience.
Step 5: Upgrade Firmware (Optional)
Stock firmware works fine for casual gamers, but for better compatibility consider ArkOS or ROCKNIX. Our R36S Firmware Guide walks through the process — about 15 minutes.
Common Beginner Questions
Is it legal?
Emulators are legal. The hardware and emulation software are completely legitimate products.
Do I need to be tech-savvy?
No. Pre-loaded consoles like the R36S work immediately — just charge and play.
Are these good for kids?
Yes. No internet, no in-app purchases, no ads. Many parents buy them as offline entertainment.
Ready to Start?
The R36S at $79 AUD is the ideal starting point — pre-loaded, affordable, and backed by a massive community.