Microsoft has officially introduced its long-rumored handheld console, the ROG Xbox Ally, developed in partnership with Asus. The device aims to bring Xbox Game Pass library access to portable gaming, offering subscribers hundreds of titles on the go. The console is expected to launch at the end of 2025, though pricing details remain undisclosed.
Xbox has faced speculation about a handheld device for over a decade, with prior attempts abandoned. This announcement follows closely on the heels of the Nintendo Switch 2 release, a hybrid console capable of both portable and TV-connected play. The success of such devices likely influenced the creation of Valve’s Steam Deck, a handheld PC gaming device supporting Steam libraries, though compatibility issues persist with some games.
The Xbox Ally will be available in two models: the base version and the higher-end ROG Xbox Ally X. Both feature a 7-inch, 1080p display. The base model offers 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, while the Ally X includes 24GB RAM, 1TB storage, a larger battery, and a more powerful processor.
Xbox head of gaming devices Roanne Sones highlighted the device’s versatility, stating players can play games natively, via the cloud, or remotely through their Xbox console. Running on Windows OS, the console supports a wide range of games beyond Xbox’s own library, enabling access to platforms like Steam and EA Play.
Weight may be a consideration, with the Ally models weighing 670g and 715g respectively, heavier than the Switch 2’s 534g. Microsoft has not yet announced pricing, but the higher-spec Ally X is expected to be more costly. For comparison, the Switch 2 retails at about £395 in the UK, while Steam Deck prices range from £349 to £569 depending on configuration.
Microsoft also unveiled new games arriving on Game Pass PC and Ultimate on day one, including Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4, Ninja Gaiden 4, Outer Worlds 2, and the upcoming Call of Duty: Black Ops 7. Notably, the last is a sequel to the acclaimed 2012 title Black Ops 2, though there was no mention of Switch 2 support despite Nintendo’s previous decade-long agreement for the series.
Additionally, the event revealed a remake of the cult classic Persona 4, titled Persona 4: Revival, 17 years after its original PlayStation 2 release. A release date for the remake has not yet been announced.