For nearly twenty years, speculation has surrounded the potential launch of a handheld Xbox console, one that could stand alongside the likes of Nintendo and PlayStation. Today, that speculation has transformed into reality with the global release of the ROG Xbox Ally, a device that promises to reshape portable gaming.
This innovative console seamlessly integrates with Xbox’s Game Pass subscription service, granting users immediate access to an extensive library of games. However, the ROG Xbox Ally’s most intriguing feature is its underlying architecture: it operates as a portable computer running Windows. This means that, in addition to the titles available through Game Pass, many digital PC games already owned by users can also be played—provided they do not require a keyboard and mouse.
While the device is capable of running most modern games at commendable resolutions, it comes at a premium price point, retailing at £499, or £799 for the more robust ROG Xbox Ally X. After spending a week with the console, my overall experience has been largely positive, though not without its challenges.
What’s it like?
True to its lineage, the ROG Xbox Ally feels like a handheld Xbox. The controller grips on either side of the screen are ergonomically designed, providing a comfortable hold. The thumbsticks offer a satisfying tactile response, while the face buttons, though slightly plasticky, are functional. The triggers, in particular, enhance the gaming experience with their responsive feedback.
To assess the device’s visual capabilities, I launched the vibrant 2019 title, Persona 5 Royal. The results were impressive. Despite initial concerns regarding Microsoft’s choice of an LCD display over the more advanced OLED technology, the screen delivered a rich visual experience. While it may not boast the most vibrant colors available, the deep reds of Persona 5 captivated me, and the gameplay was smooth, free from stutters or freezes—an expectation for a device of this caliber.
However, potential buyers should note that this is not akin to purchasing a game for a Nintendo Switch, where compatibility is generally assured. Instead, it resembles acquiring a game for a home computer, where performance can vary. This aspect may deter some users, but it is a familiar territory for seasoned PC gamers. The ROG Xbox Ally’s dual identity as a handheld Xbox and a portable Windows computer means that it inherits both the advantages and disadvantages of PC gaming.
For instance, while playing Baldur’s Gate 3, known for its demanding graphics, I encountered challenges at higher settings. Yet, the flexibility of PC gaming allowed me to adjust the graphics to achieve a smoother performance. The device handled modern titles like Hades II, Blue Prince, and Hollow Knight: Silksong without issue, and it also performed admirably with older games. However, I did face compatibility hurdles with some classics, such as Sonic Adventure 2, which required troubleshooting due to its age. Thankfully, the inclusion of Windows 11 made resolving these issues manageable.
What games are available?
The ROG Xbox Ally boasts a vast library of potential games, many of which users may already own, thanks to its PC capabilities. Nevertheless, the device is primarily designed for Xbox’s Game Pass, which offers a treasure trove of classic titles like Halo, Gears of War, and Fable, alongside contemporary hits such as Call of Duty.
One of the standout features of Game Pass is the ability to stream many games directly from the cloud, eliminating the need for extensive downloads. This capability allows the handheld to deliver impressive graphics for modern titles like Modern Warfare 3 without taxing its hardware. Additionally, Game Pass Ultimate includes subscriptions to EA and Ubisoft, further expanding the gaming options available from the outset.
Despite Game Pass being a focal point of the device, it is not a prerequisite. The ROG Xbox Ally’s Windows 11 operating system ensures compatibility with any PC game, although some titles may require additional effort to run smoothly.
In the current gaming landscape, the ROG Xbox Ally enters a competitive arena. With Nintendo’s Switch dominating the handheld market and Sony’s PlayStation Portal offering its own streaming solutions, Microsoft faces significant competition. Furthermore, the ROG Xbox Ally arrives three and a half years after Valve’s Steam Deck made its debut in the handheld PC gaming space.
While the ROG Xbox Ally holds its own against rivals, the price tag raises expectations. The unique feature of running Windows, which allows for versatility, also presents challenges. Users may find themselves navigating Windows updates before diving into gameplay—hardly the ideal scenario for eager gamers. Despite this, the target audience for this product is likely to appreciate the trade-offs, especially as they do not significantly impact the gaming experience.
The central question remains: will the convenience of Game Pass on-the-go justify the investment? Microsoft has certainly succeeded in creating a device that embodies the essence of a handheld Xbox, but whether it has arrived at the right moment in the market is yet to be seen.
