MagicX Zero 40 Announced — A Budget-Friendly Nintendo DS Alternative with Android and Drastic

Startup MagicX is preparing to release a device designed to reignite nostalgia for the Nintendo DS. The newly announced MagicX Zero 40, scheduled for an April 2025 release, aims to offer a budget-friendly alternative for fans of the iconic dual-screen platform — particularly following Nintendo's discontinuation of DS support.

The device's standout feature is its vertical layout with a 4-inch IPS touchscreen (800×480) that mimics the shape of the classic DS. Unlike the Nintendo 2DS, which used a plastic frame to create the illusion of two screens, the MagicX Zero 40 features a single glass panel, reducing production costs. The display's resolution ensures a comfortable gaming experience without the need for screen segmentation.

Powering the console is the Allwinner A133P processor paired with 2GB of RAM — modest yet sufficient for retro gaming. Its 4,300mAh battery promises up to 7 hours of gameplay. Running on Android with the Drastic emulator, which became free in 2023, the device not only grants access to the DS library but also supports PSP, Dreamcast, N64, and classic platforms like the SNES and Sega Genesis.

Priced at just $75, the MagicX Zero 40 is 13 times cheaper than the flagship Ayaneo Flip, positioning itself as an affordable option for retro enthusiasts. This marks the first time a vertical form factor designed specifically for DS emulation has been combined with such an accessible price point. Experts highlight that the device's success will largely depend on optimization — whether Drastic on Android can deliver smooth performance even for demanding titles like Mario Kart DS.