The gaming world has been abuzz with the mid-cycle release of Nubia’s Redmagic 8S Pro, a successor to the formidable Redmagic 8 Pro gaming smartphone. At first glance, it may seem like an incremental update, but this powerhouse device packs some exciting changes that set it apart.
Hardware and Cooling: Keeping It Cool Under Pressure
The Redmagic 8S Pro retains the physical dimensions of its predecessor but introduces significant improvements in terms of cooling. Gaming smartphones, by nature, generate substantial heat, and the 8S Pro has taken a step forward in addressing this challenge. The device boasts redesigned air ducts, enhanced heat pipes with a more efficient cooling gel, an enlarged vapor chamber covering the battery, and a new graphene layer beneath the display. All these modifications work together to ensure that the device remains comfortably cool during intense gaming sessions.
One of the standout upgrades is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, which has been pushed to an impressive 3.36 GHz. The addition of the Red Core 2 gaming processor further enhances the gaming experience by offloading specific gaming-related tasks, allowing the primary SoC to focus on regular smartphone functions.
Retro Gaming: A Nostalgic Twist
Beyond its gaming prowess, the Redmagic 8S Pro caught our attention with its potential for retro gaming. Emulation can be a demanding task, as it involves replicating the performance of older systems while integrating an additional UI layer for emulator control. The Redmagic 8S Pro rose to the challenge, making retro gaming a delightful experience.
To fully embrace the nostalgia, I tested the device with emulators such as RetroArch, PPSSPP, and Citra, each catering to different eras of gaming. RetroArch, known for its extensive library of supported systems, provided a seamless experience for older titles like ZX Spectrum classics. It was heartening to see games like Chase HQ running flawlessly, offering a blast from the past.
Moving on to more recent systems, the Redmagic 8S Pro handled PlayStation Portable (PSP) emulation with ease. PPSSPP, an open-source emulator, allowed for upscaling and texture filtering, enhancing the visuals without impacting gameplay. It’s worth noting that the device’s ample performance headroom enabled users to customize their emulation settings to suit their preferences.
However, the true challenge came with Nintendo 3DS emulation using Citra. This dual-screened gaming system presented a tougher test for the Redmagic 8S Pro, pushing Android emulation to its limits. Balancing frame rate, sound quality, and graphics fidelity became a delicate task, but the device’s robust performance proved advantageous.
Control Matters: Enhancing the Experience
For a complete retro gaming experience, a reliable controller is essential. While the Redmagic Shadow Blade Gamepad is available, I opted for the Razer Kishi and the 8BitDo SN30 controllers, both of which seamlessly integrated with the Redmagic 8S Pro. The Kishi provided a modern console-like feel, ideal for emulating recent games, while the SN30’s retro design transported me back to the 80s and 90s.
It’s worth noting that investing in a quality controller is an additional cost, but it significantly enhances the overall gaming experience. The choice between controllers comes down to personal preference and the era of games you intend to explore.
Conclusion: A Versatile Gaming Companion
In conclusion, the Redmagic 8S Pro offers a well-rounded gaming experience, whether you’re diving into the latest Android titles or reliving the classics through emulation. Its robust performance, efficient cooling, and compatibility with a variety of controllers make it a versatile gaming companion. Just as you would choose between Xbox, PlayStation, or Nintendo Switch for different gaming experiences, deciding on the Redmagic 8S Pro depends on your gaming goals. Whether you’re a modern gamer or a retro enthusiast, this smartphone has the power and flexibility to meet your gaming needs.
