Let's talk about a device that promises to take us back to the golden age of gaming, but does it deliver? The Laser Portable Gaming Projector, priced at $299, aims to be a retro gamer's dream come true. But is it a dream or a nightmare? Personally, I think it's a bit of both, and here's why.
The Retro Gaming Appeal
Retro gaming is a passion for many, including yours truly. I'm that guy who still has his old consoles and laments the inflated prices of retro titles these days. So, when I heard about this projector, I was intrigued. The idea of projecting classic games onto a wall or ceiling sounded like a blast from the past.
Design and Features
The projector itself is a standard-looking device with a rotating base, making it easy to set up. It's portable and lightweight, which is a plus. However, for $299, I expected a bit more than a basic 720p projector. The included accessories, like the remote and controllers, feel cheap and flimsy. The projection screen is a nice touch, but it's the software and games that really matter here.
Gaming Experience
This is where things get interesting, or rather, disappointing. The projector runs on Android 13, which is a plus for versatility, but the included games leave much to be desired. While Laser claims 80 licensed games, the reality is quite different. Many of the titles are mediocre at best and haven't aged well. The emulation is sluggish, and the input lag is noticeable, especially for fast-paced games.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the licensing situation. Laser has partnered with PIKO Interactive, a company that has acquired rights to various classic games. While I appreciate their effort to keep retro games alive, the selection here is hit-or-miss. Some games are downright awful, like Super 3D Noah's Ark, which feels more like a chore than a fun adventure.
Legal Gray Area
Here's where things get tricky. The projector's ROM emulator feature allows users to load their own games, but in Australia, this is legally sketchy. Even if you own the original cartridge, creating ROMs is a no-go. It's a shame, as it limits the potential of this device and raises ethical questions about game preservation and ownership.
Value and Conclusion
The value proposition is tricky. While the projector comes with licensed games, the overall experience is lacking. The hardware is basic, and the emulation performance needs improvement. For retro gaming enthusiasts, this projector might provide a simple fix, but it's not ideal. I'd rather reach for my old console and enjoy the games as they were meant to be played.
In my opinion, the Laser Portable Gaming Projector has a great concept, but it falls short in execution. It's a step in the right direction, but we need better hardware and a more curated game selection to truly appreciate retro gaming. Until then, this projector is a curious novelty, but not a must-have for gamers.
