The Ayaneo Pocket Micro 2 looks less like an OG GBA than I was expecting, but maybe that's a good thing

Hands using Ayaneo Pocket Micro 2 handheld in Stardust Purple to play Stardew Valley.

On Friday, the Ayaneo Pocket Micro 2 got its official unveiling in a live stream, and it's anything but a complete redesign. I admittedly figured we'd get more of a physical retro handheld refresh, but instead, this new Game Boy Micro homage elevates the original device and makes a case for "candybar" portables with high specs.

Starting at $239, the Ayaneo Pocket Micro 2 looks almost like its predecessor, with only subtle tweaks like recessed TMR thumbsticks and extended curved shoulder buttons serving as differentiators. At a glance, you'll probably struggle to play Spot the Difference between these two 3.5-inch 960x640 IPS display-wielding portables, but make no mistake, the sequel is a different beast under the hood.