The Evercade VS‑R is a streamlined, TV-focused home console from Blaze Entertainment, built to play official Evercade cartridges on your TV in 1080p, with support for up to four local multiplayer players. WIRED+15evercade.co.uk+15retrogamerrandomness.com+15
🛠 Overview & Key Features
-
Dual Cartridge Slots: Play two Evercade cartridges simultaneously, with all games from both showing up in the UI—no need to reboot. WIRED+7Wikipedia+7Amazon+7
-
Wide 1080p HDMI Output: Ideal for modern TVs, with multiple aspect ratio options, scanline filters, and more. Wikipedia+4evercade.co.uk+4funstock.co.uk+4
-
Four USB Ports: Supports up to four players using wired USB controllers, including Xbox, 8BitDo, and PlayStation via USB. Multiplayer is seamless. The Late Night Session+6retrogamerrandomness.com+6Wikipedia+6
-
Built‑In Wi‑Fi: Enables firmware updates directly on the console—no PC needed. Wikipedia+2Amazon+2WIRED+2
-
Hot‑Swappable Cartridges: Insert or remove cartridges on the fly and the menu updates instantly. Bonus unlocks are possible by pairing certain carts together.
-
No Hardware Changes from Original VS: Internals remain the same—only aesthetics and package contents differ. VS‑R uses a charcoal grey and turquoise color scheme and ships with a Tomb Raider Collection cartridge. Wikipedia+7Reddit+7funstock.co.uk+7
🔍 VS‑R vs. Original Evercade VS
| Feature | Evercade VS | Evercade VS‑R |
|---|---|---|
| Hardware Specs | ARM Cortex‑A53 @1.5GHz, 512MB RAM, 4 GB internal | Identical hardware Wikipedia |
| Cartridge Support | Supports all carts (except specific Namco ones) | Same compatibility, except limited Namco packs |
| Bundled Content | Multiple bundle options | Single package: controller + Tomb Raider cartridge |
| Design & Color | White/red classic design | Charcoal gray with turquoise accents |
| Price | ~$99–129 depending on bundle | Typically priced $20–$30 lower with included game |
🧠 Real-World Feedback
Reviewers and users praise the Evercade VS‑R for:
-
Excellent value: Around $100 for console + cartridge is compelling. evercade.co.uk+10retrogamerrandomness.com+10WIRED+10
-
Reliable emulation performance: Low input lag and smooth gameplay across many retro systems. WIRED
-
Smart dual-slot system: All inserted games show immediately, and some combos unlock bonus titles. evercade.co.uk+4The Late Night Session+4evercade.co.uk+4
-
Modern design: Compact, lightweight, and USB-powered—but reviewers recommend securing it to avoid tipping if cords pull. The Late Night Session
✅ Should You Buy the Evercade VS‑R?
The Evercade VS‑R is an excellent entry point for retro gamers who want:
-
A cartridge-based, legally licensed system
-
Local multiplayer with multiple controllers
-
TV play in crisp 1080p
-
A simplified bundle bundled with a classic title (Tomb Raider Collection 1 included)
It’s especially ideal if you already own or plan to collect Evercade game cartridges.
🛒 Where to Buy
Looking to get one? Here are trusted options where it’s available:
-
Official Evercade website Diario AS+15evercade.co.uk+15Amazon+15The Late Night Session+5funstock.co.uk+5funstock.co.uk+5Wikipedia+1The Late Night Session+1
-
Retailers like Songbird Productions and Funstock, which offer bundles and UK/EU shipping Diario AS+3songbird-productions.com+3funstock.co.uk+3
🎮 Final Thoughts
The Evercade VS‑R is an affordable, retro-friendly console designed for couch play. If you’re collecting Evercade cartridges or prefer a couch co-op retro experience on your TV, the VS‑R brings simplicity, nostalgia, and multiplayer fun—all at a great value.