Samsung's Smartwatch Surprises Gamers with High-Performance Gameplay

In an unexpected twist, a tech enthusiast has turned his Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 into a compact gaming console. Reddit user ZenonDesingk recently showcased images of his smartwatch running popular games such as God of War, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, and even Forza Horizon 4 via Steam Link.

Initially, ZenonDesingk was disappointed with the limited gaming options available on the watch. Determined to enhance its capabilities, he explored alternative methods. After attempting standard approaches like installing APK files via Bluetooth and browsers without success, he transferred the necessary files from his phone to the watch over Wi-Fi using ADB and Bugjaeger. By adjusting the DPI settings, he successfully installed a PSP emulator, effectively transforming the Galaxy Watch 5 into a gaming device.

Remarkably, the smartwatch achieved frame rates around 60fps with games like Grand Theft Auto, Mortal Kombat, and Need for Speed: Most Wanted. Even more demanding titles, such as God of War, ran at approximately 30fps. To enhance playability, ZenonDesingk paired a Bluetooth game controller with the watch, allowing for a more immersive experience.

While the Galaxy Watch 5 was not designed as a gaming device, this experiment highlights its surprising potential. However, limitations like its small display and battery capacity mean it isn't a practical gaming solution for extended sessions.