After major players like Nintendo, Sony, and Sega have successfully ventured into handheld gaming, Microsoft has finally introduced its own specialty device, albeit with a twist.

Unveiled at the recent Xbox Games Showcase, the Asus ROG Xbox Ally primarily resembles a Steam Deck rather than more traditional handhelds like the PSP or Nintendo Switch. This device is essentially a revised version of Asus’ handheld gaming PC, the ROG Ally, enhanced with Xbox-oriented grips, an Xbox button, and a more intuitive Windows interface that leads users directly to a game launcher. This launcher gives access to various game stores, including Steam and Epic, all navigable through the controller.

In essence, it is not just a portable Xbox; it is a handheld gaming PC branded with Xbox aesthetics.

An Enhanced Windows Gaming Experience, at a Price

While this may not resonate well with exclusive Xbox fans, it opens the door to exciting possibilities. This device may fulfill the expectations of PC gamers who have longed for a user-friendly Windows-based handheld. Navigating the current Windows operating system with a controller can be tedious, but launching directly into the Xbox app will streamline the experience. Microsoft promises that the handheld will bypass certain parts of Windows, leading to improved performance and a lighter interface. This means that systems utilizing Microsoft’s OS could stand head-to-head with competitors like the Steam Deck, as Microsoft hints at rolling out this new gaming experience to various existing devices too.

However, Microsoft now faces competition beyond just the Steam Deck. This announcement arrives shortly after the launch of Nintendo’s Switch 2, leaving it a bit behind the curve.

Furthermore, the design of the ROG Xbox Ally raises concerns. Although official dimensions have yet to be disclosed, it appears bulky and somewhat weighty. The pricing details are still under wraps, but speculation based on available specifications suggests potential price points around $600 and $1,000 for the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, respectively.

Credit: Michelle Ehrhardt

To many dedicated gamers, those price tags may seem justifiable, yet compared to the sleek, Apple-esque $450 Nintendo Switch 2 or the $400 Steam Deck, they demand a considerable investment. Insights from an interview with Asus’ consumer vice president, Shawn Yen, reveal that this device aims for resolutions ranging from 720p to 900p up to 1080p depending on the variant. While it may achieve slightly better frame rates, these improvements are unlikely to be groundbreaking, particularly for casual gamers.

In essence, this marks a gradual evolution rather than a groundbreaking shift, which is disappointing for a first-time handheld. Although a more user-friendly Windows-based handheld has its merits—particularly since the Steam Deck struggles with games using anti-cheat technology—the Xbox experience promises quicker loading times for non-Steam titles. That said, many continue to favor the Steam Deck for its affordability, usability, and performance. The ROG Xbox Ally aims for simplicity, yet there are concerns that the expected performance gains (utilizing a more advanced processor than the Steam Deck) may not justify the premium price.

Not Quite an Xbox Handheld

In conclusion, the result is an Xbox-branded handheld that is unlikely to become the favored portable option for Xbox enthusiasts, instead presenting itself as a niche choice tailored for devoted fans. While it may not be the worst outcome, it represents a missed opportunity, particularly when juxtaposed against the innovative Switch 2.

On a related note, exploring the Switch 2 over the weekend revealed that it is exceptionally sleek. A comprehensive review is on the way, but initial impressions highlight its attractive design, lightweight structure, and impressive performance—still available at a lower price than the anticipated Xbox device. While it has limitations relative to a full PC, this makes it more accessible. The Switch 2 offers a glimpse into the future of mainstream handheld gaming, whereas Microsoft’s offering feels like a temporary solution. (For many handheld PC gamers, the Steam Deck remains the recommended choice, with the Switch 2 being the perfect fit for console enthusiasts looking for a portable experience.)

Perhaps expectations were set too high. Competing with Nintendo on its first handheld venture was always going to be challenging. Yet, Microsoft’s “This is an Xbox” campaign has emphasized its investments in cloud gaming and the Game Pass experience over hardware capabilities. A more refined and budget-friendly Xbox handheld could have complementarily filled a gap for console gamers or Switch users seeking something more advanced. Instead, it seems tailored for those already intrigued by the ROG Ally, leaving others behind.