In a long-awaited announcement, Microsoft has finally unveiled its highly-anticipated handheld console, the ROG Xbox Ally. This significant development comes after years of speculation and rumors surrounding Microsoft's entry into the handheld gaming market. Designed in collaboration with Asus, a company renowned for its expertise in handheld gaming devices since 2023, the ROG Xbox Ally promises to revolutionize gaming on-the-go by granting players access to the extensive library of titles available through their Game Pass subscription.
With the ROG Xbox Ally, gamers will enjoy the convenience of accessing their Game Pass subscription library wherever they are, effectively starting with hundreds of games at their fingertips. This handheld console is set to launch at the end of 2025, although the price remains undisclosed. Microsoft’s consistent efforts over the last decade to create a handheld Xbox have culminated in this innovative device, which arrives just three days after the much-anticipated launch of the Switch 2.
The Switch 2, much like its predecessor, is a hybrid console that functions both as a portable device and a home console. Its success has influenced the design of other handheld consoles, including the Valve Steam Deck, which provides access to an expansive library of games purchased through the Steam platform. Although Microsoft may be perceived as entering the handheld market later than its competitors, the native support for Game Pass is likely to attract its 34 million subscribers and address concerns regarding the availability of games.
The ROG Xbox Ally will come in two versions: the standard ROG Xbox Ally and the upgraded ROG Xbox Ally X. Both variants feature a vibrant 7-inch screen with a crisp 1080p resolution. The base model includes 16GB of memory and 512GB of storage, while the X version boasts 24GB of memory and double the storage capacity. The more powerful variant also includes a larger battery and a superior processor, ensuring a seamless gaming experience.
According to Roanne Sones, Xbox head of gaming devices, “Whether you're at home or on the go, your favorite games should follow you.” Both versions of the ROG Xbox Ally allow players to enjoy games natively, via the cloud, or remotely from their Xbox console in another room.
One of the standout features of the ROG Xbox Ally is its use of the Windows operating system. This unique aspect provides gamers with access to a range of games that are otherwise unavailable on competing devices. As Ms. Sones emphasizes, "You can enjoy the full freedom and versatility of PC gaming," allowing users to launch other gaming platforms, such as Steam and EA Play, directly from the handheld.
However, this impressive functionality comes with a trade-off in terms of weight. The base and X versions of the ROG Xbox Ally weigh 670g and 715g, respectively, making them heavier than many current handheld consoles, including the Switch 2, which weighs 534g. A major point of interest remains the price of the ROG Xbox Ally; while Microsoft has not disclosed pricing details, it is widely expected that the more powerful X version will be priced higher. For reference, the Switch 2 retails at £395 in the UK, while the Steam Deck ranges from £349 to £569 based on specifications.
At the showcase event where Microsoft unveiled the ROG Xbox Ally, the company also announced several new games set to debut on Game Pass. Among the highly-anticipated titles slated for release on day one are Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3+4, Ninja Gaiden 4, and Outer Worlds 2. Additionally, fans can look forward to the release of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, which is expected later this year and serves as a sequel to the critically acclaimed Black Ops 2.
Interestingly, despite the game being confirmed for multiple consoles, no mention was made of the Switch 2 during the event, even though Nintendo had previously signed a 10-year deal to bring the Call of Duty series to its consoles in 2022. Another much-anticipated reveal was the remake of Persona 4, titled Revival, set to launch 17 years after its original release on the PlayStation 2.
The launch of the ROG Xbox Ally marks a significant milestone for Microsoft in the gaming industry, as it positions the company to compete in the handheld market effectively. With its unique features, extensive game library through Game Pass, and the versatility of the Windows operating system, the ROG Xbox Ally is poised to be a game-changer for gamers seeking a portable gaming experience.
