Handheld consoles bridge the mobility gap between large PCs/consoles and mobile phones. Users can enjoy high-quality games without wasting their phone battery or being stuck at a desk or TV.
NexPlay
Portable Handheld Console
55% of gamers play primarily on their phone.
25% consoles like PlayStation and Xbox
20% Personal Computer, including laptop
Source: Newzoo Global Games Market Report 2024
75% of people watch video content on their phone.
25% television and computer.
Source: Pew Research
Physical Controls & Ergonomics
Must have analog sticks, buttons, and a good grip for a better gaming experience.
Inspiration
Legacy & Nostalgia
Inspired by iconic handhelds like PSP, Game Boy, or Switch. Familiar form factor and trusted design language.
Modern Performance
Today’s gamers expect near PC or console-level power in a portable device.
Good handheld gaming starts with proven ergonomics. I analyzed the Xbox controller’s grip, joystick placement, and trigger reach to ensure NexPlay feels natural in any hand.
Form Study
Ergonomics are critical
Good controllers keep hands in a natural position, minimizing strain for long sessions. Comfortable grip shape, asymmetric joystick layout, and large trigger and bumper placement.
Analog sticks and buttons = precision & instant feedback
Analog sticks are essential for precise control in modern games: aiming, camera movement, and driving. Buttons give a tactile response, and reduce input lag and accidental taps, unlike touchscreen inputs.
Triggers and bumpers = better engagement
Triggers allow pressure-sensitive input — e.g., accelerating a car or pulling a weapon trigger gradually.
Universal design benchmark
This consistency makes it easy for players to pick up a new device like NexPlay without a learning curve.
Sketch Model
Size:
length 12in x height 5.6in x width 2.3in
Key Takeaways:
Compact, ergonomic shape
Analog D-pad and ABXY buttons
Asymmetrical joystick layout
Large trigger and bumper placement
User-Focused Features:
Sliding Screen
Camera and Dual Speakers
Touchpad
Adobe Illustration of different forms
Initial CAD
Developments from sketch models
