Conquer Pocket Advance Review: A Modern Take on a Classic Handheld

Introduction

The Conquer Pocket Advance is a handheld gaming device that takes clear inspiration from the classic Game Boy Advance while updating the formula with modern hardware. It runs Android, packs an 8-core processor, and includes a 3.5 inch IPS display. For fans of retro gaming, it offers a familiar shape with a noticeably more capable system underneath.

The device is built around a MediaTek Helio G90T chipset, which is an older but proven 8-core ARM SoC. It comes with either 3 GB or 4 GB of RAM and 32 GB or 64 GB of storage. The display is a 3.5 inch IPS LCD at 960 by 640 resolution, using the same 3:2 aspect ratio as the original Game Boy Advance. That means games designed for the GBA line up perfectly with no black bars or bezels.

Design and Build

The Pocket Advance feels immediately familiar. The horizontal layout, the button placement, and even the volume wheel on the bottom edge all echo the original Game Boy Advance. But the build has been modernized with a few welcome additions. There are shoulder buttons and triggers up top, along with two programmable keys labeled LC and RC. A round home button and a red power button sit on the top edge as well.

The device is constructed entirely of plastic, yet it still feels premium in the hand. It weighs only 224 grams, which makes it easy to hold for long sessions and simple to slip into a pocket. The rear has a subtle grip area and an intake vent for the active cooling system. On the bottom edge, you will find a 3.5 mm audio jack, dual stereo speakers, a USB Type-C port, and a micro SD card slot for expanding storage.

The volume wheel is a standout detail. It works exactly like the one on the original Game Boy Advance, and it is surprisingly satisfying to use. The D-pad is also well executed. It has a slight softness to it that makes it comfortable to use from both the edges and the middle, which is important because this device has no analog sticks. All of the face buttons are easy to reach, and the overall ergonomics will feel right at home for anyone who grew up with the GBA.

Software and Features

The Pocket Advance runs Android 12 with Google Play access, so you can install apps and emulators directly from the Play Store. The included launcher, called Space, lets you import games from internal storage or a micro SD card and organizes them with artwork and console listings. Some users may prefer third-party launchers, which work well on this device.

A dedicated Conquer key opens a quick menu where you can switch between performance profiles on the fly. The options include eco mode, balanced, gaming, and max. In gaming mode, the fan stays relatively quiet while providing solid performance. Max mode pushes the fan to around 100 percent, which can get loud, but the fan curve is fully adjustable through the software.

The quick menu also includes sound vibration and button vibration features. These send audio signals or button presses through the vibration motor for a more immersive feel. It is not for everyone, but it is a nice option to have. From the IO settings menu, you can tweak CPU and GPU clocks, adjust fan curves for each profile, and remap the programmable LC and RC keys to whatever you prefer.

Performance and Emulation

The Helio G90T is not a flagship chip, so expectations should be set accordingly. It handles older systems with ease. Game Boy Advance games look excellent on the 960 by 640 display, and you can upscale them to 3x resolution without issue. Original Game Boy games also look great, especially with colorization enabled in emulators like RetroArch.

Dreamcast emulation is another strong point. Using Redream, games run flawlessly even with an upscale to 1280 by 960. PSP emulation is also solid, with titles running well at 2x upscale using the Vulkan renderer. For the Mali GPU in this chipset, Vulkan tends to deliver the best results in most emulators.

GameCube and PS2 emulation are more of a stretch. Some lighter titles can run with tweaks and reduced resolution, but performance is inconsistent. For example, a mid-range GameCube game might run at around 38 frames per second instead of a full 60. This is not the device for demanding modern emulation, but it was never designed to be.

Battery and Everyday Use

The 4,000 mAh battery provides solid endurance, especially when playing less demanding systems. In eco mode, you can play Game Boy and Game Boy Advance games with a slight upscale and still see respectable battery life. The active cooling system keeps the device comfortable during longer sessions, and in gaming mode, the fan rarely needs to spin up to high speeds.

The dual stereo speakers are surprisingly capable. They are not the loudest on the market, but they produce clean audio with decent volume. The 3.5 mm headphone jack is a welcome addition for private listening. One limitation is the USB Type-C port, which is only USB 2.0, so there is no video output over the connection.

Buying Advice

The Conquer Pocket Advance is priced at $89.99 for the 3 GB RAM and 32 GB storage model, and $109.99 for the 4 GB RAM and 64 GB storage version. At that price point, it delivers a lot of value for retro gaming fans. The build quality feels premium despite the all-plastic construction, and the display is well suited for the systems it targets.

Color options include gray, coral, and navy blue, with special editions in transparent smoke and peach. The coral version is particularly striking. If you are looking for a dedicated handheld for Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, Dreamcast, and PSP emulation, this is a strong choice. If you need GameCube or PS2 performance, you will want to look elsewhere.

Conclusion

The Conquer Pocket Advance succeeds at what it sets out to do. It captures the feel of the classic Game Boy Advance while adding modern conveniences like a sharper display, active cooling, and Android software. The price is reasonable, the build feels solid, and the emulation performance is excellent for the systems that matter most. For retro gaming enthusiasts, this is a device worth serious consideration.