CRKD Vortex 1.0 is an all-purpose backpack for gaming gear

The CRKD Vortex 1.0 is a backpack, like any other great backpack, but this one is ‘uge. So ‘uge. It’s like the best ‘uge. It’s purpose-built for gaming gear, especially handheld consoles. You get two handheld console compartments, Switch game cartridge pockets, a padded laptop section, side pockets, water bottle pocket and more.

I have a single backpack I use for almost everything. My vacations and trips out of the house, heading down the street to family or friend’s places, packing my day gear, whatever. I suspect there are lots of you out there that do the same, unless you’re a backpack or bag collector, specifically. But that also means my backpack, while useful, is better at some things than others. For example, while it has a laptop section, it’s not exactly the best for stowing a bunch of electronics. Once I add my Steam Deck, portable power packs, my laptop, tablets or whatever else, it bulges out and doesn’t really do a good job of protecting any one of those devices. Realistically, with electronics, I should be using a specialized pack. Something like the CRKD Vortex 1.0 which was purpose-built for gaming gear.

Now, I already know what you’re thinking, because I was, too. How and why is it so special for gaming? What makes it any different? It has a spacious main compartment but a bunch of added features that make it ideal for portable game consoles like the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch — yes, Switch 2, as well.

Listen to this, it’s pretty wild. The Vortex has dual handheld console pockets, for two handhelds, a padded laptop compartment, game card slots for 10 game cartridges (Switch), a front stash pocket for quick access, and side access zippers. Plus, zippable side pockets, a water bottle pocket, headphone pass-through, a magnetic quick release buckle and an adjustable chest buckle. Talk about strapped, damn.

Okay, but what does this have to do with gaming gear?

Besides the specialized pockets, Vortex is meant to keep all your most prized gear safe and ready to rock. It’s water-resistant, so anything inside is shielded from spills or water splashes, including rain. Moreover, the quick release buckle and adjustable chest strap keep it secure on your body even when full. No sliding, no fussing, just a comfortable fit.

But let’s get back to those pockets and compartments for a moment. When I throw my Steam Deck or Switch into my regular backpack they just kind of wiggle around loosely in there. My laptop has a dedicated compartment, but even that’s not really safe if my console takes a heavy plop. Vortex provides individual spaces for all that gear, and two handheld consoles, not just one.

You can also fit all your cables, accessories like controllers and portable power packs in there. The headphone pass-through allows you to connect wired headphones to your gadgets, which are tucked neatly inside.

Whether traveling the world or your local municipality this pack will keep your gaming necessities protected, padded and organized. It doesn’t look half bad either.