Both the ROG Ally and Ally X are compact, high-performance handheld consoles that combine a wide touch display with controllers mounted on each side—drawing immediate comparisons to the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch. Powered by Windows 11, the systems allow users to access a wide range of games and PC applications such as Discord, Twitch, and modding tools. The devices will support Xbox Game Pass, the Microsoft Store, Steam, Battle.net, and other major gaming platforms, offering players a vast and versatile game library that spans Xbox and PC titles.
Despite Microsoft’s long-standing commitment to the idea of “Xbox anywhere,” the absence of a true portable console had left a gap in its ecosystem. Meanwhile, competitors had firmly established themselves in the portable space. With the introduction of the Ally and Ally X, Microsoft is finally delivering a hardware solution that aligns with its broader vision of gaming on the go.
The base Ally model will offer solid performance suitable for most use cases, while the Ally X is aimed at more demanding players, expected to feature a larger battery, expanded storage, and improved cooling. While exact technical specifications and pricing remain under wraps, both devices are slated for release during the 2025 holiday season.
Players will be able to enjoy cloud gaming and remote play, meaning they can start a game on one device and seamlessly continue it on another—be it their Xbox console, PC, or the handheld. Xbox account integration ensures that game progress, save data, and libraries will sync across platforms.
Ergonomically, the devices are inspired by traditional Xbox controllers, offering a familiar and comfortable grip. Early hands-on impressions have been largely positive, praising the build quality, fluid gameplay, and sharp display. However, some reviewers have noted that Windows 11’s interface may not be ideally optimized for handheld use, occasionally detracting from the overall experience.
Alongside the hardware announcement, Microsoft also highlighted upcoming additions to its game lineup. Highly anticipated titles such as Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, The Outer Worlds 2, a remake of Persona 4, and the long-awaited Silksong were among the key reveals. Notably, Roblox will also be available on the Ally devices—marking the first time the game can be played on a dedicated handheld, potentially drawing in a younger demographic.
The timing of this launch is critical. Nintendo has already released the Switch 2, giving it a head start ahead of the holiday rush. Market dynamics, including possible tariffs or supply chain disruptions, could further shape competition. However, Microsoft’s advantage lies in its extensive game catalog and integrated ecosystem, which could make the Ally line an appealing alternative to established portable consoles.
While recent years have seen gaming consoles compete mainly on raw power and graphics, the true appeal for many players is the ability to play wherever and whenever. Whether on a plane, in bed, or away from the TV, the flexibility of portable gaming is increasingly essential. A high-quality handheld that delivers console-grade performance without being tied to a living room setup might be exactly what Microsoft needs to level the playing field in today’s evolving gaming landscape.
