When Blaze Entertainment, under its HyperMegaTech! brand, unveiled plans for a Super Pocket dedicated to the iconic games of Rare, a collective breath of anticipation swept through the retro gaming community. For many, including this reviewer, the primary hope was the inclusion of Banjo-Kazooie, a title that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with such legendary works as Ocarina of Time and Donkey Kong 64. The confirmation, emblazoned on the product’s packaging with Banjo and Kazooie themselves taking center stage, was met with considerable excitement. Blaze Entertainment, demonstrating foresight and a keen understanding of their target audience, provided an early review unit of the Rare Super Pocket, allowing for an in-depth examination of its capabilities. While the device comes pre-loaded with fourteen games, the gravitational pull of Banjo-Kazooie is undeniable, and its inclusion alone, for many, justifies the £49.99 price tag. The additional inclusion of Battletoads and Conker’s Pocket Tales serves as a delightful bonus, enhancing the overall value proposition. This review delves into the device’s controls, display, and the surprisingly seamless adaptation of an N64 classic to a compact handheld format.

A Pocket-Sized Handheld Brimming with Rare Nostalgia

The Rare Super Pocket is designed to evoke a sense of pure, unadulterated gaming joy, reminiscent of the golden era of 3D platformers and arcade classics. Its form factor is deliberately reminiscent of classic handheld gaming devices, prioritizing portability and immediate access to a curated library of beloved titles. The HyperMegaTech! brand has positioned the Super Pocket series as an accessible gateway to retro gaming, offering a distinct alternative to complex emulation setups or expensive console collections. This particular iteration, focused on Rare’s illustrious past, taps into a deep well of nostalgia for a generation of gamers who grew up with these titles, and introduces them to a new audience.

Design and User Interface: A Score of 10

The design philosophy of the Super Pocket is centered on simplicity and immediate usability. The device’s aesthetic is clean and functional, with a focus on ergonomic comfort for extended play sessions. The user interface is intuitive, featuring a straightforward scrolling menu that displays game art and titles, making navigation effortless. The inclusion of distinct menu music, described as having "a bit of a kick to it," adds a subtle but appreciated layer of polish, differentiating it from the more generic audio often found on similar devices. The ability to easily access settings and even load external Evercade cartridges further enhances its versatility, making it a more robust platform than its toy-like appearance might initially suggest.

What’s In The Box

Upon unboxing the Rare Super Pocket, users are greeted with the handheld securely housed within a protective cardboard sleeve. The package includes a USB-A to USB-C charging cable, notable for its sufficient length, which allows for safe and convenient charging without the need for precarious placement. This thoughtful detail addresses a common frustration with smaller gaming devices, where short cables can compromise charging safety.

A particularly charming inclusion, and one that speaks volumes about Blaze Entertainment’s understanding of their audience, is a brief guide for Banjo-Kazooie. This gesture harks back to the days when games came with comprehensive instruction manuals, a cherished aspect of the gaming experience for many. The inclusion of this guide, complete with tips and control scheme explanations, underscores the central role Banjo-Kazooie plays in this collection and acknowledges the device’s appeal to fans of this particular N64 title. The guide also provides insights into the dual control schemes available, a feature that significantly enhances the adaptability of the handheld for different playstyles.

Games List: A Curated Collection of Rare Classics

The Rare Super Pocket boasts a formidable lineup of fifteen pre-loaded games, drawing from Rare’s extensive and influential back catalog. It is crucial to note a common point of online misinformation: while some listings may suggest the inclusion of Blast Corps, this reviewer can confirm that Banjo-Kazooie is the sole N64 title present on the handheld. The full compilation represents a significant portion of Rare’s most celebrated works across various platforms, offering a diverse range of genres and gameplay experiences.

The inclusion of these games is not merely a matter of quantity but of quality and historical significance. Rare’s output in the 1990s and early 2000s was marked by innovation, technical prowess, and a unique sense of humor, characteristics that are well-represented in this collection. The selection aims to capture the essence of Rare’s most impactful era, providing both a trip down memory lane for seasoned enthusiasts and an introduction to foundational titles for newcomers.

Let’s Talk Banjo: The N64 Masterpiece Reimagined

The centerpiece of the Rare Super Pocket, and arguably its strongest selling point, is the inclusion of Banjo-Kazooie. For those seeking the most accessible and enjoyable way to play this N64 classic in 2026, the Super Pocket presents a compelling option. While Banjo-Kazooie is available on Nintendo Switch Online, that route necessitates a subscription to the N64 game catalog and the purchase of a Switch console, and crucially, the player does not truly "own" the game. The Super Pocket offers a tangible, standalone experience.

The visual presentation of Banjo-Kazooie on the Super Pocket is a significant upgrade from the original N64 release. The graphics appear brighter and crisper, demonstrating a thoughtful enhancement that revitalizes the game’s vibrant aesthetic. This visual fidelity is particularly impressive given the handheld’s compact 2.8-inch display.

A primary concern for any adaptation of an N64 title, particularly one reliant on analog control like Banjo-Kazooie, is its translation to a handheld without a joystick. The Super Pocket addresses this challenge with remarkable success. Blaze Entertainment, in collaboration with Rare, has implemented a control scheme that minimizes the perceived loss of the analog stick. The D-pad proves to be highly responsive, accurately replicating the nuanced movements required for Banjo’s traversal. Circular movements on the D-pad translate seamlessly into Banjo’s characteristic spins, and critical actions like the Feathery Flap and swimming maneuvers are executed with precision. This thoughtful adaptation ensures that the core gameplay experience remains intact and enjoyable.

The game’s tutorial sequences have also been intelligently updated. Instead of referring to original N64 button combinations, Bottles the Mole’s instructions are adapted to the Super Pocket’s layout. For instance, the game now guides players to use L2 or R2 in conjunction with X and Y buttons for specific moves, a significant improvement over the often-confusing button mappings found on some unofficial emulators. This attention to detail ensures that new players are not disoriented and can readily access the game’s full repertoire of abilities.

Beyond controls, the Rare Super Pocket introduces several quality-of-life improvements that enhance the overall player experience. The ability to instantly return to Grunty’s Lair from the in-game menu, bypassing the need to locate a level portal, is a significant convenience. Furthermore, the "Quit and Save" options have been expanded to include direct returns to the title screen or main menu, offering greater flexibility in managing game progress and switching between titles. These enhancements, while subtle, contribute to a more streamlined and enjoyable playthrough.

Controls: Adapting to the Handheld Landscape

The Super Pocket’s control scheme has been a point of evolution, and with the Rare Super Pocket, it has found its stride. The rear triggers, previously underutilized in some Evercade titles, now play a crucial role. These L1/R1 and L2/R2 buttons are strategically mapped to facilitate complex actions without requiring awkward hand contortions.

The Talon Trot, a frequently used maneuver in Banjo-Kazooie, is now activated by holding down L2 and R2 simultaneously, a far more intuitive approach than the original N64 input. Similarly, the shoulder buttons are mapped to Kazooie’s projectile attacks, with R2 controlling egg firing and X/B buttons serving as the primary action buttons.

A notable addition is the "Tiptoe" feature, activated by a single press of R2. This allows for slow, controlled movement, invaluable for stealth segments or navigating precarious ledges. This feature remains active until R2 is pressed again or can be used in a momentary press, offering further customization. This careful remapping ensures that the core mechanics of Banjo-Kazooie are not only playable but fluid and responsive on the Super Pocket.

Replay vs. Retro: Catering to Diverse Preferences

Blaze Entertainment acknowledges that some players may have deeply ingrained muscle memory from original console experiences. To accommodate this, the Rare Super Pocket offers a choice between "Replay" and "Retro" control schemes. The "Replay" mode, set as the default, prioritizes ease of use on the handheld, mapping buttons in a way that streamlines common actions. For instance, X is assigned to the "B" button function, mirroring the N64 controller’s layout where B was positioned to the left of A.

The "Retro" control scheme offers a more faithful replication of the N64 inputs. This mode maps L1 and L2 to egg firing and reverts the Talon Trot to the original Z + C-button combination, requiring a more complex sequence of button presses. While this option caters to purists, it can feel somewhat cumbersome on the compact Super Pocket, potentially requiring an adjustment in hand positioning. The inclusion of both options, however, demonstrates a commitment to player choice and ensures that a wider range of users can find a comfortable control scheme. The included instruction slip provides a clear overview of these control mappings, empowering users to select their preferred setup.

How Easy Is It To See? Display Clarity

The Super Pocket’s 2.8-inch display, previously lauded for its effectiveness in displaying smaller-scale games, proves equally adept with Banjo-Kazooie. While other Super Pocket titles allow for user-adjustable display ratios (Original Ratio, Pixel Perfect, Fullscreen) and visual filters like scanlines, Banjo-Kazooie is presented with preset configurations designed to optimize the visual experience. The result is a clear and sharp image where text remains legible and the vibrant world of the game is rendered with impressive detail. This optimized presentation ensures that the visual richness of Banjo-Kazooie is not compromised by the handheld’s compact screen.

Super Pocket User Experience: Beyond Banjo

While Banjo-Kazooie is a primary draw, the Rare Super Pocket offers a comprehensive and enjoyable user experience across all its pre-loaded titles. The navigation is seamless, with a visually appealing menu that presents each game with its corresponding artwork and title. The energetic menu music contributes to an overall positive first impression. The device also facilitates easy access to settings and the loading of Evercade cartridges, expanding the gaming library significantly.

Ergonomically, the Super Pocket lives up to its name, fitting comfortably in the hand and pocket. The front-facing action buttons are well-placed, and the rear triggers, now more integral to gameplay, have become a welcome addition. The sound quality is also noteworthy, with volume controls conveniently located on the back of the console, allowing for easy adjustment during gameplay. Even at maximum volume, the audio remains clear and undistorted, capturing the iconic sound effects and music of Rare’s classics. Battery life provides approximately four hours of gameplay per charge, with reasonably quick recharge times when using a fast charger. While a USB-C to USB-C cable would have been a more modern inclusion, the provided USB-A to USB-C cable is practical and widely compatible.

Other Rare Titles: A Diverse Ensemble

While the spotlight firmly remains on Banjo-Kazooie, the Rare Super Pocket includes a compelling selection of other titles that deserve recognition. Conker’s Pocket Tales, a Game Boy Color title, offers a charming, albeit less debaucherous, 8-bit adventure from the infamous squirrel. The inclusion of two Battletoads titles, Battletoads and Battletoads in Battlemaniacs, provides the requisite beat-’em-up action that is a staple of retro compilations.

The remaining games, while historically significant and influential, may appeal more to an audience with a direct nostalgic connection to those eras. These titles serve as valuable historical artifacts, showcasing the evolution of game design and Rare’s impact on the industry. However, compared to the immediate appeal of Banjo-Kazooie, Conker’s Pocket Tales, and the Battletoads games, they might occupy less playtime for a broader audience.

It is important to acknowledge that many of these pre-loaded games are also available through the Evercade Rare Collection 1 cartridge. Blaze Entertainment’s strategy with the Rare Super Pocket appears to be directly targeting fans who wish to own these specific titles in a dedicated, portable format without necessarily purchasing the larger cartridge collection, thus allowing them to allocate funds towards other Evercade releases.

Why You Should Pick The Super Pocket: Accessibility and Pure Fun

In an era where emulation setups can be complex and require significant technical know-how, the Super Pocket offers a refreshingly straightforward "plug-and-play" experience. It eliminates the need for users to navigate ROM management, WiFi updates, or intricate software configurations. The device is ready to go straight out of the box, pre-loaded with a curated selection of beloved games. Furthermore, its compatibility with the broader Evercade cartridge ecosystem opens up access to over 600 additional titles, including popular series like Glover and Tomb Raider.

The Super Pocket’s design ethos extends to its accessibility. It is positioned as a device that can be easily handed to individuals of all ages and technical abilities. A parent who watched their child play Banjo-Kazooie can now share that experience with them on this handheld, or a young person new to retro gaming can pick it up and immediately understand how to play. This emphasis on immediate enjoyment, free from the complexities of modern emulation, is a significant advantage.

The Super Pocket embodies a "toy-like" yet robust approach to handheld gaming. Its vibrant design, reminiscent of classic Tiger Electronics handhelds, fosters a sense of fun and portability. Unlike more expensive and fragile consoles, the Super Pocket is designed to be easily slipped into a pocket and enjoyed on the go, without the constant worry of accidental damage. This relaxed approach to gaming, prioritizing enjoyment over preservation, is a key differentiator. The device’s affordability makes it an attractive gift option, particularly for introducing multiple children to the world of retro gaming.

Pros

• Exceptional Banjo-Kazooie Port: The highlight of the device, offering a superb and accessible way to play the N64 classic.
• Curated Rare Collection: Features a strong selection of Rare’s most beloved titles, including Conker’s Pocket Tales and Battletoads.
• Intuitive User Interface: Easy to navigate with clear game menus and energetic background music.
• Ergonomic Design: Comfortable to hold for extended periods and genuinely pocketable.
• Affordable Price Point: Offers significant value for the number and quality of included games.
• User-Friendly Controls: Well-mapped buttons and thoughtful adaptations for N64 titles.
• Evercade Cartridge Compatibility: Expands the gaming library exponentially.
• Durable and Portable: Designed for casual, on-the-go gaming without excessive worry.

Cons

• Limited N64 While Banjo-Kazooie is excellent, the inclusion of only one N64 game might disappoint some.
• USB-A to USB-C Cable: A USB-C to USB-C cable would be a more modern and universally convenient inclusion.
• Display Size: While optimized, the 2.8-inch screen may still be too small for some players’ preferences for certain games.

It is worth noting that Blaze Entertainment is slated to release the Evercade Nexus later this year, a more premium device that will include a Banjo-Kazooie/Banjo-Tooie double game pack and an analog stick for £169.99/$199.99. However, the Super Pocket’s strength lies in its distinct identity as a highly portable, affordable, and immediately accessible retro gaming device. The Nexus, while more feature-rich, sacrifices the pocketability and casual appeal that the Super Pocket excels at.

In conclusion, the Rare Super Pocket is a triumphant celebration of Rare’s legacy, masterfully balancing nostalgia with modern usability. Its standout feature, the inclusion of Banjo-Kazooie, is executed with such care and precision that it alone makes the device a compelling purchase. Coupled with a robust selection of other Rare classics and a user-friendly design, the Rare Super Pocket stands as an excellent entry point into retro gaming and a delightful collectible for long-time fans.