handheld gaming Archives

AppWizard

August 10, 2026

Project Xodus Brings Native Xbox PC and Game Pass Games to Linux

Project Xodus is an open-source initiative focused on reverse-engineering Xbox PC and Game Pass titles to enable their use on Linux and Mac systems. The project has made significant progress in Microsoft authentication and package decryption, allowing Linux users to download and process Xbox subscription games locally. The team has successfully reverse-engineered Microsoft’s identity services and license verification systems, unlocking encrypted MSIXVC game files and enabling the verification of game licenses and decryption of installation packages on non-Windows operating systems. Xodus serves as a translation bridge for Microsoft’s proprietary ecosystem services, providing custom proxy libraries for games to function as if they are running in a native Windows environment. It specifically targets modern games built on Microsoft’s GDK framework, excluding older titles using the Universal Windows Platform and those dependent on kernel-level anti-cheat mechanisms. The project aims to improve access to Xbox Game Pass on devices like the Steam Deck by facilitating direct local hardware execution, reducing reliance on cloud streaming and enhancing portable gaming experiences. Community feedback has been positive, with developers actively sharing updates and engaging with inquiries.

AppWizard

August 10, 2026

Lenovo Quietly Drops the Legion Go S Handheld Gaming PC to an All-Time Low, Powered by AMD Ryzen Z2 Go and Radeon Graphics – Kotaku

The Lenovo Legion Go S handheld console is currently available at a discounted price of 9, down from its original price of 9, reflecting a 22% savings. It features an 8-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage. The console includes three complimentary months of PC Game Pass and EA Play, and it integrates seamlessly with Steam, making it advantageous for both new and existing PC gamers.

BetaBeacon

August 6, 2026

This Game Boy Advance clone is a cheap Android handheld from AYANEO

The AYANEO KONKR Pocket Advance is a handheld game console that resembles the Nintendo Game Boy Advance but with modern features. It has a 3.5 inch display, MediaTek Helio G90T processor, and runs on an Android-based operating system. The device is available for pre-order with different configurations and prices, with limited production runs expected. The KONKR Pocket Advance features a unique design ideal for classic GBA titles, along with additional buttons for enhanced gameplay. It also includes various modern features such as a 4,000 mAh battery, WiFi, Bluetooth, USB-C port, microSD card reader, and gyroscope. The device aims to provide a blend of nostalgia and modern functionality for gamers looking for a portable gaming experience.

Winsage

August 4, 2026

If you use the Xbox App on Windows 11 with non-Xbox games then you absolutely need to use this Game Bar widget

SteamGridDB is now available on Windows 11, allowing users to enhance their gaming library's visual appeal by replacing low-resolution box art with better artwork. It can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store and is easily accessible through the Widgets Menu on the Game Bar. Users can select a game, search for compatible artwork, and integrate their chosen artwork into the Xbox App library. This feature is particularly beneficial for handheld gaming PCs and is pinned as a permanent widget in the Game Bar for quick access.

AppWizard

August 4, 2026

Xbox Backward Compatibility on PC and Helix will reportedly include Xbox 360 games

Microsoft's Xbox division plans to expand backward compatibility for PC to include Xbox 360 games, allowing developers to make their titles available for PC users. This initiative follows the recent introduction of four original Xbox games to PC. The Xbox 360 games will be playable on various platforms, including the Xbox app on Windows, handheld devices, and the upcoming Project Helix console. Developers will have control over backward compatibility, pricing, and availability on Xbox Game Pass. The rollout for Xbox 360 compatibility is expected between 2027 and 2028, while the full launch for original Xbox games on PC is scheduled for October, with enhancements like 4x resolution scaling and anti-aliasing. Additionally, achievements will be introduced for original Xbox titles on both console and PC.

AppWizard

August 3, 2026

Microsoft brings Xbox 360 games to PC via Project Helix

Microsoft plans to expand its backward compatibility initiative by bringing Xbox 360 games to PC, allowing players to access iconic titles like Halo 3 and Gears of War across multiple devices, including the upcoming Project Helix console and handheld gaming devices. This move aims to create a unified gaming ecosystem and aligns with Microsoft's strategy of reducing traditional console exclusivity. The initiative enhances subscription services like Xbox Game Pass by incorporating a rich catalog of classic games. The technical implementation remains unclear, but Microsoft's previous backward compatibility efforts have been commendable. This strategy also presents opportunities for game developers to reach new audiences without extensive remasters. Additionally, the inclusion of handheld devices indicates Microsoft's intentions to compete in the portable gaming market.

AppWizard

August 3, 2026

Xbox 360 Games Are Reportedly Coming To PC As Well

Microsoft is planning to enhance the gaming experience by integrating Xbox 360 games onto PC platforms and its upcoming Project Helix console, which will support backward compatibility. Developers will have the option to set their own pricing for PC versions of games and include them in the Game Pass subscription service. This initiative follows a previous announcement about bringing original Xbox games to PC, with an expansion expected in October. Additionally, Microsoft has developed an official emulator, Xe03, for running Xbox 360 games on Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S, and another tool, XeFu, for original Xbox games. Furthermore, a disc-to-digital program is in the works to allow players to convert physical game copies into digital versions, although details about its implementation remain unclear.

AppWizard

August 2, 2026

Open-World Survival Game with Over 80K Wishlists Just Got Its PC Release Date (And It’s Soon)

Delverium, an indie sandbox survival game from Sagestone Games, is set to enter Early Access on PC via Steam on September 22nd. The game has over 80,000 wishlists and features pixel graphics, open-world survival, and farming simulations. Players can explore a vast pixel-art world, engage in activities like fighting, fishing, farming, and foraging, and play solo or cooperatively with up to eight friends. A free demo was showcased during February’s Steam Next Fest, and the game has been refined based on player feedback from a recent playtest. The Early Access version will include core gameplay, cooperative play, and full controller support, and is expected to perform well on the Steam Deck. The Early Access phase is planned to last approximately two years, during which new content will be added based on player feedback. Pricing details are not yet available, but it is expected to be lower during Early Access.

AppWizard

July 26, 2026

Halo: Campaign Evolved Looks Worse Than Master Chief Collection on Steam Deck and Xbox Ally

Halo: Campaign Evolved has been released for early access. It features impressive visuals on high-end PCs and current consoles but struggles on lower-end hardware, particularly handheld devices like the Steam Deck. The game requires an Intel Core i7-10700K and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 Super, which are beyond the capabilities of the Steam Deck and base Xbox Ally. On the Xbox Ally, the game runs at 1280x720 resolution with Very Low settings and achieves around 30 fps, occasionally dipping into the mid-20s. Despite being technically playable, the visual quality is poor, with bland textures and a lack of environmental detail. In contrast, the Master Chief Collection runs at 65-70 fps on the Xbox Ally and offers superior visual fidelity. The Steam page claims Campaign Evolved is Steam Deck Verified, although performance is lacking compared to other titles. For those wanting to experience the original Halo campaign on the Steam Deck, the Master Chief Collection is recommended.

AppWizard

July 25, 2026

Xbox backwards compatibility now available on PC, starting with four original Xbox games

Microsoft has launched a pilot program allowing select original Xbox titles to be played on Windows 11, with four classic games now available: BliNX: The Time Sweeper, Conker: Live and Reloaded, Crimson Skies: High Road to Revenge, and Fusion Frenzy. Players can access these games via a Game Pass Essential subscription or purchase them individually, and those with previous digital copies on Xbox consoles can download them at no extra cost. The games can be played at resolutions up to 2,560 x 1,920 pixels, maintaining their original aspect ratios and framerates, with options for enhanced graphics settings. The system requirements include at least an Nvidia GTX 950 or AMD Radeon RX 550, with recommended specifications for optimal performance. There are uncertainties regarding the expansion of the game library due to recent organizational changes within Microsoft, including layoffs in the backward compatibility program.