Syed Imran Haider 
The Polymega dream of an all-in-one retro console capable of accepting physical media from almost every major platform may seem elusive. The Playmaji has opted to take on the challenge in the form of Polymega. It was originally envisioned in 2017 as a hybrid FPGA-based system known as RetroBlox, but it has transformed into a software-based emulation console and was launched in September 2021 as Polymega.
Nonetheless, very few consoles have actually made it in the hands of consumers due to supply chain and other problems. Regular shipments finally began in early 2024 and it now comes with a second-generation wireless controller.
The concept
The Polymega is based on the modular concept, so it supports CDs, cartridges and controllers from over half a dozen platforms. These include PS1, TurboGrafx-16 CD, Nintendo and Sega Saturn. We expect to introduce even more modules in the future. The PolyMega does come with its quirks, which includes a high price tag, but it does a solid job of meeting such a massive challenge.
The Base Unit
An Intel Coffee Lake S Series Processor powers the PolyMega Base Unit and it boasts 2GB DDR4 RAM. As far as connectivity is concerned, it comes with USB 2.0 (2), Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI 1.4, the Polymega Expansion bus and the Realtek RTL8822BE Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Combo Module. A 32GB NanoSSD is also available inside for storage. You can also expand storage through the M.2 2280 SSD and microSDXC ports.
The package includes the base unit, wireless controller, microUSB to USB-A charging cable, USB dongle, 6 foot HDMI cable, power adapter and cable, a quick start guide and a dust cover. On the rear of the console, you will find the HDMI port, Power Connector, microSD card slot, Ethernet port and air vent. The front has the Optical Disc Drive Slot, Disc Eject button, two USB 2.0 ports, Power Button, Module Indicator Light and Manual Disc Eject Access pinhole. The well-constructed console itself feels solid, but there are a few quirks.
The wireless controller
The second-generation version of the wireless controller has reduced lag and its design is similar to that of the Sony DualShock series. Instead of the USB-C, it is still using the older microUSB. You can also buy additional controllers.
The controller does feel a bit slippery and light around the handles and the precision of the D-pad may not be what you expect. But, it functions quite well for a rebranded generic controller. It is possible to use the Turbo Button can be used for mapping the face buttons or you can use the Turbo Clear Button to reset them back to their original operation if you want. As for the supported platforms, the controller buttons are mapped automatically.
The Verdict
The Polymega platform has a lot of room for growth in terms of services and features, but even if there are no improvements, it still offers gamers a lot of value. Even with the high cost of entry, it is a solid purchase because it can modernize and streamline play with some vintage consoles.
