Tariffs and the Retro Gaming Crisis

The retro gaming industry is in a bit of a pickle. The problem started when tariffs were slapped on goods coming from China. These tariffs are making it tough for companies that make handheld gaming devices. Anbernic, known for its popular Anbernic RG35XX Plus, has hit the pause button on sending their products to the U. S. They're not the only ones feeling the heat. Retroid Pocket, another company in the same boat, is rushing to ship out its new device before the U. S. government closes a loophole that let smaller shipments slide by without tariffs. The tariffs are a big deal because they make the price of these handhelds jump. A console that used to cost $100 might now set you back $200 or more. This price hike is a bummer for retro gaming fans who love these devices for their affordability and the fact that they can play lots of old games on them. The tariffs are causing a lot of uncertainty and panic in the retro gaming community. People are rushing to buy devices like the Retroid Pocket Flip 2 before prices go up even more. The tariffs are also causing problems for businesses that repair and restore vintage gaming hardware. Steve Nutter, who runs a repair business, says the tariffs are making it hard to get the parts he needs. He's looking at U. S. manufacturing and bulk orders to keep his business afloat, but it's not an easy fix. Some parts just aren't made in the U. S. , so there's no way around the tariffs. Another device in the crosshairs is the Arduboy, a credit card-sized, open-source system. Its creator, Kevin Bates, isn't keen on doubling the price just to keep up with the tariffs. He's looking at U. S. manufacturing for an upgraded Arduboy, but even that comes with its own set of challenges. The tariffs are causing a lot of headaches for the retro gaming industry, and it's not clear when things will settle down. The retro gaming community is a vibrant one, and these tariffs are threatening to change that. The industry is at a crossroads, and it's not just about the money. It's about the accessibility and the community that has built up around these devices. The tariffs are a reminder that even in the world of retro gaming, politics and economics can have a big impact. It's a tough situation, and it's not clear how it will all play out.