during the Summer game Fest and its xbox Games Showcase,Microsoft unveiled its first portable console,developed with ASUS. The ROG Xbox Ally and its advanced version, the ROG Xbox Ally X, combine the capabilities of a gaming PC with the Xbox ecosystem.

These devices, while technically Windows 11 PCs, are designed to replicate the portable Xbox console experience. Microsoft calls this a “consolidated PC,” featuring the new Xbox Full Screen Experience interface, Xbox Game Pass integration, cloud gaming, remote play, and compatibility with platforms like Steam and Epic Games Store.

The base ROG Ally includes an AMD Ryzen Z2 processor,a 7-inch 120 Hz touch screen,16 GB of RAM,and a 512 GB SSD. The Ally X version upgrades to a Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor with AI capabilities, 24 GB of RAM, 1 TB of storage, and a larger battery. Both models support variable refresh rate (VRR) and aim to outperform the Steam Deck,offering a viable option for AAA gaming on the go.

The launch is planned for the 2025 Christmas season, with estimated prices starting at 599 euros for the standard model and possibly reaching 899 or even 999 euros for the advanced version.

Competition and Market Impact

Microsoft wants you to play Xbox wherever you want, without barriers.

Microsoft’s move marks them as the first of the major gaming companies to invest in a new generation portable solution with access to console and PC games. Nintendo leads the hybrid market with its Switch and the upcoming Switch 2, but with less power. Sony, despite past portable consoles like the PSP and PS Vita, has not presented a direct competitor. Their PlayStation Portal relies on streaming from a main console, limiting its standalone functionality.

Microsoft’s message is clear: they aim to provide Xbox gaming anywhere, without limitations. The announcement of the Rog Xbox Ally is a step towards this goal, putting pressure on Sony to respond.