Xbox Ally X Excels With Indie Titles

Microsoft recently confirmed widespread speculation by announcing an Xbox handheld device. While the ROG Xbox Ally X may not be the dedicated "Xbox handheld" some fans envisioned, it represents a significant step toward mainstream adoption of handheld PC gaming – arguably the biggest leap since Valve introduced the Steam Deck in 2022.

The collaboration between Microsoft and Asus could deliver groundbreaking insights into Microsoft's next-generation console strategy – provided they optimize critical factors like OS performance and pricing. However, handheld gaming PCs inherently involve tradeoffs. Although Microsoft guarantees playability for all games showcased at its summer event, actual performance expectations require more nuance.

The Z2 Extreme SoC undoubtedly provides sufficient horsepower for AAA titles, but the real appeal may lie elsewhere. Microsoft's consistent additions of indie titles to Game Pass could become the system's strongest selling point – perhaps intentionally so.

Performance Realities

AMD unveiled the Z2 Extreme chipset at CES 2025, yet six months later, no retail devices currently utilize it. The Xbox Ally X goes further by employing the enhanced Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme variant, which maintains the same core architecture while adding a 50 TOPs NPU. While theoretically superior to the Z1 Extreme, actual gaming performance remains uncertain.

Prospective buyers should maintain realistic expectations regarding graphically intensive AAA titles. Current high-end handhelds like the Z1 Extreme-powered Lenovo Legion Go S still struggle with demanding games such as Cyberpunk 2077 at native resolutions – despite the title being nearly half a decade old.

Cryberpunk represents an extreme case with its ability to challenge even desktop RTX 5090 systems, but evolving graphical demands continue raising hardware requirements. The Xbox Ally X will technically support upcoming AAA releases but likely at compromised settings and framerates.

This limitation shouldn't deter enthusiasts. Having extensively tested numerous handheld gaming PCs over two years, I've found remarkably little playtime devoted to graphically intensive AAA experiences. Instead, compelling indie titles like Hades 2 dominated my usage.

The Indie Advantage

The Nintendo Switch initially captivated audiences with flagship titles like Breath of the Wild, but ultimately thrived by becoming my secondary platform for enjoying indie titles portably. Steam Deck's arrival then revolutionized handheld PC gaming.

While pre-Deck handheld PCs existed, their niche appeal and cumbersome interfaces limited adoption. Contemporary designs from manufacturers like Asus and Lenovo now offer genuinely refined portable gaming experiences – with full access to existing PC game libraries.

Windows-based handhelds provide universal compatibility across digital storefronts. Whether playing Game Pass titles or Epic Store purchases, my progress seamlessly synchronizes across devices – eliminating redundant purchases.

This has led to a natural workflow division: graphically demanding games like Doom: The Dark Ages remain desktop exclusives where they benefit from maximum settings, while handhelds become ideal platforms for indie gems like Rift of the Necrodancer. Before handheld PCs matured, these titles often received merely exploratory playtime between AAA sessions.

A recent IGN staff survey confirmed this trend – most colleagues primarily use handhelds for indie games and JRPGs rather than blockbuster titles. Japanese RPGs particularly benefit from being less dependent on high framerates.

Windows-based handhelds excel at integrating indie games into regular gaming routines through their expansive compatibility. However, accessing non-Steam titles currently involves either Linux configuration on SteamOS or managing Windows' touch interface limitations – highlighting why an optimized Windows 11 variant could be transformative.

The ROG Xbox Ally X represents exciting potential – combining third-party launcher accessibility with console-like simplicity. Asus's "#PlayAllYourgames" branding promises comprehensive compatibility. With any luck, this partnership will deliver that vision without the UI frustrations common in current Windows handhelds.