Xbox handheld that runs PlayStation games? ROG Ally's surprise reveal breaks the internet
Imagine a handheld gaming device that revolutionizes the gaming experience by combining the best of Xbox, Steam, and even PlayStation PC titles—all in one. At the Xbox Games Showcase 2025, Microsoft and ASUS unveiled the groundbreaking ROG Xbox Ally and its advanced version, the Ally X.
Powered by Windows 11; these devices offer full access to a wide range of PC games, including popular Xbox Game Pass titles and PlayStation ports like God of War. This launch marks a significant leap in handheld gaming, blurring the lines between console and PC gaming in an innovative, portable form.
What is the ROG Xbox Ally?
So what exactly is this thing? The ROG Xbox Ally is basically an ASUS ROG Ally handheld with an Xbox themed visuals and optimized software. It's not a native Xbox console but a Windows 11 handheld PC designed for gaming.
ROG Xbox Ally specs:
AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor
16 GB RAM
512 GB SSD storage
7-inch 120 Hz touchscreen
FreeSync Premium support
Ally X version upgrades:
Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor
24 GB RAM
Larger battery
Can it play PlayStation games?
Here's the part everyone's buzzing about—because it runs full Windows 11, you can install and play PC versions of PlayStation games, like God of War, Marvel's Spider-Man, and more.
A Microsoft representative even said, "Because these handhelds run Windows, you have access to all the games you can play on Windows PCs." The flexibility is rough: Steam, Epic, Ubisoft, Battle.net—you name it.
What's the gameplay experience like?
One Reddit user said, "I assumed this would be a handheld Xbox, but it says Windows 11 on it. So, it's just a newer ROG Ally with the 'Xbox' name in it?" And honestly, that's a fair thought!
The ROG Xbox Ally isn't a traditional Xbox console. Instead, it's a powerful Windows 11 PC packed into a handheld device. That means you get the freedom of a PC—playing Steam games, Xbox Game Pass titles, and even running apps you'd normally use on a laptop—all on the go. This flexibility opens up a world of gaming possibilities, giving you the freedom to play your favorite games wherever you are.
So, while it carries the Xbox branding and offers a seamless Xbox experience, it's really a Windows gaming powerhouse. This mix gives you a wider library of games and more freedom than a standard handheld console.
Why are Esports fans excited about this move?
The ROG Xbox Ally marks a big shift for Xbox's "platform-agnostic" strategy. Microsoft is moving past traditional console borders toward Xbox Anywhere and Game Pass on all devices.
"This is just the start," said Xbox's CVP at the Showcase, highlighting plans to bring Xbox, PC, and PlayStation libraries under one roof. Add to that fully integrated Windows storefronts, and it's the ultimate gaming Swiss Army knife.
When can you get it, and what will it cost?
The brand is looking at a holiday 2025 release, with prices rumored to range between $599–$999 USD, depending on the model. No official pre-order yet, but keep an eye out if you want to drop serious cash on a handheld that defies platform lines.
The ROG Xbox Ally family isn't a replacement for Steam Deck or Switch, but it is the most flexible handheld Xbox has ever endorsed. Want to play Xbox, PC, and PlayStation PC games on one device?
Think of it like having a mini-PC in your backpack—ready for power gaming, remote play, or your Game Pass queue. It's new, it's bold, and yes, it might just be the device that changes how we play.
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