Since its launch in 2022, the Steam Deck has garnered a dedicated fan base, championing the handheld gaming PC design. While it may not have been the pioneer of this segment, it undeniably popularized it. Although it remains the first handheld PC for many, including those who prefer it over newer competitors like the Nintendo Switch 2, signs of its age are becoming more evident. This is where the Lenovo Legion Go S comes into play, promising to shake things up.

Devices such as the Asus ROG Ally have made their market debuts ahead of the Legion Go S, but what sets this particular handheld apart is its ability to operate on SteamOS, a feature not found in any other non-Valve handheld to date (though a Windows version is available). This capability gives the Legion Go S a significant advantage over its competition, as the operating system has played a vital role in maintaining the Steam Deck’s relevance long after its release. Coupled with its impressive hardware enhancements, the Legion Go S poses a genuine challenge to the Steam Deck, offering hope for a worthy successor—a feat that Windows-based handhelds have struggled to achieve, even with their superior specifications.

However, advancements come at a price. The question remains: does this device represent the long-awaited “Steam Deck 2,” or, akin to the ROG Ally, is it intended only for the most dedicated handheld gaming enthusiasts?