🔥 Playing Diablo on a Retro Handheld Console – A Surprisingly Magical Experience
🔥 Playing Diablo on a Retro Handheld Console – A Surprisingly Magical Experience
If you told a gamer in 1996 that one day they could play the full version of Diablo 1 on a handheld console that fits in their pocket, they probably wouldn’t believe you. But thanks to open-source ports and the versatility of modern retro handhelds, playing Diablo on devices like the Anbernic RG35XX, Retroid Pocket, or Raspberry Pi is now a reality.
🎮 The Setup
To run Diablo 1 on a retro handheld, you need:
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A device that supports Linux/Android (Anbernic, Retroid Pocket, Raspberry Pi)
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PortMaster or DevilutionX (open-source engine for Diablo)
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The original game file:
DIABDAT.MPQ(from GOG or your CD) -
A gamepad or button-mapped controls
Once installed through PortMaster or manually via DevilutionX, the game launches directly from the ports menu and runs natively on the handheld. Load times are fast, and controls are responsive.
✨ The Experience
Diablo’s gameplay is perfect for handheld play:
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Point-and-click movement feels natural on D-pad or analog stick
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Inventory and menu navigation is intuitive with mapped buttons
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Grim atmosphere and moody soundtrack are surprisingly immersive, even on a 3.5" screen with headphones
The game runs at full speed, and save files are retained just like on PC. Whether you're a Sorcerer, Warrior, or Rogue, clearing the Cathedral on-the-go brings a fresh layer of excitement to this dark ARPG classic.
⏳ Why It's Worth Trying
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✅ Nostalgia: Play Diablo like it’s 1996 — but in your hands
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✅ Portability: Grind loot and fight demons anywhere: coffee shops, subways, or even in bed
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✅ Performance: With devices like RG552 or Pi4, it runs smoother than many old laptops
If you’ve ever wanted to replay Diablo but didn’t want to sit at a desk for hours, this is the way.
💲 Bonus Tip
You can even use cloud sync (via RetroArch saves or SD backup) to share your progress between devices. Start in handheld, continue on PC later.
Whether you're revisiting Tristram or experiencing Diablo for the first time, the retro handheld port gives the game a new soul.
Ready to enter the dungeon? Check out supported handhelds here: https://verofits.com/products/g