We’ve been hearing whispers and rumors for quite some time about Microsoft partnering with ASUS’ ROG division to develop a handheld gaming device. The anticipation culminated during the recent Xbox Games Showcase at Summer Game Fest, where we finally received confirmation about the upcoming ROG Xbox Ally handheld gaming devices. Scheduled for release during the 2025 holiday season, these devices promise to offer gamers a unique blend of portability and power.
The ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X
There are two variants of this exciting handheld: the ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X. While specific pricing details have yet to be unveiled, we can speculate that these devices will be priced similarly to the current ROG Ally options, which peak at around $800 for the ROG Ally X. Microsoft is expected to release more information about pre-orders, accessories, and other related details as the launch date approaches.
Geographically, the initial release will cover an impressive array of countries, including Australia, Canada, Japan, several nations across Europe, and the United States. This global reach underscores Microsoft’s commitment to making the Xbox Ally accessible to a wide audience.
Gaming Capabilities
What truly sets the Xbox Ally series apart is its compatibility not just with Xbox titles, but also with a broader range of games. Microsoft’s head of Xbox, Sarah Bond, hinted that all games showcased will be playable on the Xbox Ally, though it remains unclear whether they will run natively on the device. Notably, Microsoft has partnered with Roblox to ensure that the immensely popular game will be available for handheld gaming for the first time. Additionally, the Xbox Ally will support other major gaming platforms like Steam, Ubisoft Connect, and GOG. The inclusion of Game Pass integration is another significant advantage, allowing players to access a host of titles quickly.
Players who purchase the Xbox Ally or Ally X and are new to Game Pass may also receive a complimentary trial, making it easier for gamers to dive into the expansive Xbox ecosystem. Furthermore, Microsoft is developing a user interface tailored specifically for handheld use—this includes a dedicated Xbox button for launching features like the Game Bar, making navigation smooth and intuitive.
Technical Features
The hardware of the Xbox Ally series is impressive. Both devices operate on Windows 11, optimized for handheld usage, which includes access to device controls via ASUS’ Armoury Crate. The Xbox Ally is driven by an AMD Ryzen Z2 A Processor, featuring 16GB of RAM and 512GB SSD storage. Meanwhile, the Xbox Ally X is the performance powerhouse with an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage. The inclusion of expandable storage via microSD cards further eases the concerns of space limitations.
A standout feature is the seven-inch, 1080p display with a refresh rate of 120Hz. Utilizing Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, the display promises durability while also supporting FreeSync Premium for a smooth gaming experience. Both models will also incorporate haptic feedback; the Xbox Ally has hall effect analog triggers, while the Ally X incorporates impulse triggers, enhancing control during gameplay.
Design and Ergonomics
At first glance, the Xbox Ally series presents a robust and ergonomic design. With dimensions of 290.8 x 121.5 x 50.7mm and a weight of 670 grams for the Xbox Ally and 715 grams for the Ally X, these handhelds are substantial, offering a solid grip reminiscent of the Xbox Wireless Controller. This design should mitigate discomfort during extended gaming sessions, an essential factor for any handheld device.
Moreover, both systems boast two USB-C ports that enable video output to larger displays, supporting DisplayPort 2.1 and Power Delivery 3.0. This design choice underscores their versatility, catering to not just handheld gaming but also living room setups.
A New Era for Xbox Handheld Gaming
Microsoft’s move into handheld gaming is significant, considering the current landscape dominated by Nintendo and PlayStation. The launch of the Xbox Ally series marks a crucial step in expanding their ecosystem beyond traditional consoles and PCs. Their commitment to incorporating features that appeal to casual and hardcore gamers alike highlights a thoughtful approach that could capture a new audience.
With its wide-ranging compatibility, powerful hardware, and attention to user experience, the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X have the potential to redefine the handheld gaming experience. As we await more details leading up to the 2025 holiday launch, there’s a growing excitement surrounding Microsoft’s commitment to innovation in gaming.
In summary, the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X promise to deliver an extensive gaming experience that integrates seamlessly with Microsoft’s broader ecosystem. As we look forward to further announcements concerning pricing, pre-orders, and additional features, one thing is clear: Microsoft aims to make a powerful statement in the handheld gaming market. The gaming community will surely be watching closely as we approach the holiday release, eager to see how these new devices will shape the future of handheld gaming.
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