Hands-On with the ROG Xbox Ally X: Impressive Power, But at What Cost?
At this year’s Summer Game Fest, I had the chance to go hands-on with Gears of War: Reloaded, running on Microsoft’s upcoming handheld, the ROG Xbox Ally X. Visually, the game looks phenomenal. The remaster is stunning whether you're looking at it on the device’s crisp 7-inch screen or blown up on a bigger TV. But after just 20 minutes of gameplay, one thing became very clear: this handheld is no featherweight, and my forearms were definitely feeling it.
When it comes to designing a portable gaming console, there’s a tricky balance to strike. If I’m sitting at home, I already have a high-end PC or a big-screen TV — so why would I choose a handheld unless it gives me something unique? On the other hand, if I’m using it on the go — lounging on the couch, commuting, or traveling — I need it to be light, compact, and truly portable. The best handhelds hit that sweet spot: powerful enough to play modern games well, but not so bulky that they’re a hassle to carry around.
Comfort is key. The original Nintendo Switch nailed this — it was so lightweight you could play for hours before noticing any strain. But of course, it’s now showing its age when it comes to running big-budget titles. The Steam Deck offers a lot more power, but that comes with extra bulk, and you start feeling that pretty quickly. With the ROG Xbox Ally X, I was surprised by how quickly fatigue set in. Twenty minutes of playing Gears of War and I already found myself adjusting my grip and stretching out my wrists.
It’s still early days for this device — a single short session can’t tell the whole story. But based on this initial hands-on, the Ally X feels like it’s prioritizing raw power over long-term comfort. And in the world of handhelds, that trade-off can be a dealbreaker.
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