Microsoft introduced the ROG Xbox Ally handheld console as a competitor to the Switch 2 and Steam Deck.
The Ally embodies Xbox's 'Play Anywhere' concept and aims to provide a console-quality handheld gaming experience.
While promising, there are concerns that the Ally may be entering the market late compared to established handheld options.
Initial impressions suggest that the Ally feels sturdy and substantial in hand, departing from a toy-like feel found in other devices.
However, the Ally's design may not be inclusive for users with smaller hands, causing discomfort during extended play.
Despite comfort issues, the Ally offers streamlined user experience, allowing easy access to games across different platforms.
Microsoft's attention to user experience sets the Ally apart from its competitors in the handheld gaming PC market.
The shift towards handheld devices offering console-level power has blurred traditional boundaries between console and handheld games.
While indie developers continue to create niche handheld experiences, the era of dedicated handheld gaming seems to be fading.
The evolution of handheld gaming reflects a shift towards devices offering console-like experiences, potentially diminishing the uniqueness of traditional handheld gaming.