Retroid Pocket 6 Will Now Get Two Designs After Survey Ends With Redesign Results

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Retroid has been on a roll since they announced their next two handhelds: The Pocket G2 and Pocket 6. Both show sizable improvements over the previous generation with a fantastic price point. However, the Pocket 6 did have some issues raised by consumers. Many were not a fan of the design, and in response, Retroid held a survey to see which style customers would want. Now, the survey is done, and Retroid has announced that they will offer two models of the Pocket 6, depending on where you want the D-Pad.

In the results of the surveys, which took place over Discord and Twitter/X, it appears that the new design without the buttons below the screen overwhelmingly came out on top. And in the second survey, the majority of people wanted the left stick on top, mimicking the usual joystick design of current controllers and handhelds. This second survey, with the left stick on top winning, is in stark contrast to the last generation, and while it wasn't as overwhelming, I did see some comments about their dissatisfaction with not having symmetrical joysticks.

Well, it seems like it won't be much of an issue either! Retroid announced over on Discord that they will be giving customers a choice between the two options! The buttons at the bottom of the screen are gone, but now, we can choose whether we want the joystick above the D-Pad or below it. Personally, I like the symmetrical joysticks, so below will be what I want. They also mentioned that the M1 and M2 buttons have now been moved to the back.

For those who have pre-ordered a Pocket 6, Retroid will be reaching out within the next few days. It will most likely give us an option to cancel or choose one of the new designs. I can understand why a lot of people may not be happy with the changes, it is quite odd to do this after pre-orders have gone live, but it's nice to see a company respond so quickly to their customers and make course corrections.

The Pocket 6 is currently taken down for pre-orders, but will be back up soon on the website. It will most likely stay the same price as well, starting at $209.

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