ROG Xbox Ally Hands-On: The Xbox Handheld is Here

Introducing the ROG Xbox Ally

• 🚀 The Asus ROG Xbox Ally is a new dedicated gaming handheld revealed at the Xbox Games Showcase.
• 💡 It runs Windows 11, offering a full-screen Xbox experience that integrates various gaming marketplaces.
• 🎮 Players can access games from Xbox, Game Pass, Battle.net, and potentially other PC storefronts like Steam.

Design and User Experience

• 🕹️ The device features comfortable, slightly textured grips and buttons that feel similar to a standard Xbox controller.
• 🖼️ It boots directly into an optimized full-screen experience designed to minimize background activity and dedicate resources to gameplay.
• 🛠️ A new command center tab allows users to adjust power consumption and performance, similar to Steam Deck features.

Connectivity and Functionality

• ☁️ The Ally supports downloading games, remote play from an Xbox, and cloud streaming, making it more versatile than the PlayStation Portal.
• 💻 As a Windows 11 device, it allows access to third-party apps like Discord and Twitch, and supports game mods.

ROG Ally vs. ROG Ally X

• ⚪ The standard Xbox Ally features an AMD Ryzen Z2A processor, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and weighs 670g.
• ⚫ The more powerful Xbox Ally X comes with an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB RAM, 1TB SSD, and weighs 715g.
• 📱 Both models sport a 7-inch 1080p screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and have glowing lights around the analog sticks.

Market Context and Comparisons

• 🔗 The Xbox Ally is positioned as a more open platform, similar to the Valve Steam Deck, compared to the more restricted Nintendo Switch.
• 🤝 Its design is noted as being closer to the PlayStation Portal with dedicated hand grips, though it offers more functionality.
• 📅 Pricing and a specific release date are yet to be announced, with a holiday release expected.