Latest news with #ROGAllyX
Geeky Gadgets
17-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
ROG Ally X Performance Playing Doom Dark Ages With SteamOS 3 8
What if a handheld gaming device could deliver a seamless experience with a demanding title like Doom: The Dark Ages? The ROG Ally X, paired with SteamOS 3.8, comes tantalizingly close to achieving this vision. While many portable devices struggle to balance performance, stability, and battery life, the Ally X manages to carve out its niche, offering a surprisingly robust gaming experience despite its hardware constraints. But here's the twist: it's not Windows that makes this possible. Instead, SteamOS steps in as the unsung hero, delivering smoother gameplay and fewer headaches for gamers who demand more from their handhelds. Could this signal a shift in how we think about portable gaming platforms? In this breakdown, ETA Prime explores how SteamOS 3.8 transforms the ROG Ally X into a capable machine for running Doom: The Dark Ages. From performance benchmarks to battery efficiency, we'll uncover the trade-offs and triumphs that make this pairing so intriguing. You'll also discover why Windows, despite its dominance in PC gaming, falters on this device and how SteamOS emerges as the more reliable choice. Whether you're a tech enthusiast curious about optimization challenges or a gamer weighing your next handheld investment, this analysis will leave you questioning what's truly possible in portable gaming. Sometimes, the best solutions come from unexpected places. ROG Ally X Gaming Performance Performance Insights: SteamOS 3.8 SteamOS 3.8 establishes a robust foundation for running Doom: The Dark Ages on the ROG Ally X. With settings configured at 900p resolution, low graphical quality, and a 20W Thermal Design Power (TDP), the game achieves an average of 43 frames per second (FPS). This configuration strikes a practical balance between visual fidelity and performance stability, making it ideal for extended gaming sessions without excessive strain on the hardware. For gamers seeking smoother gameplay, increasing the TDP to 35W and reducing the resolution to 720p raises the average FPS to 52. However, attempts to enable frame generation technology—a feature designed to enhance fluidity—result in performance drops due to its incompatibility with the platform. This limitation underscores the need for software refinements to unlock the full potential of the ROG Ally X and its hardware. Windows: A Challenging Alternative Running Doom: The Dark Ages on Windows presents a series of significant challenges. The ROG Ally X struggles with outdated or restricted AMD drivers, leading to frequent crashes and overall instability. Efforts to install official AMD drivers often fail, leaving users without access to critical performance enhancements. These issues highlight the comparative stability and reliability of SteamOS, which offers a more consistent gaming experience for this title. The challenges on Windows extend beyond driver issues. The platform's inability to fully use the AMD Z1 Extreme integrated GPU (iGPU) limits its performance potential. This disparity between the two operating systems emphasizes the importance of driver support and platform optimization in achieving a seamless gaming experience. Doom Dark Ages On The ROG Ally X Watch this video on YouTube. Below are more guides on SteamOS 3.8 from our extensive range of articles. Hardware and Optimization Constraints The ROG Ally X is powered by the AMD Z1 Extreme iGPU, a component that showcases both its strengths and limitations. While capable of delivering solid performance at lower resolutions, achieving 1080p resolution or higher frame rates remains a challenge due to hardware constraints and software inefficiencies. These limitations are not unique to the ROG Ally X, as similar compatibility issues affect other iGPUs, such as Intel Arc GPUs, further complicating optimization efforts. Game stability varies depending on the chosen configuration. SteamOS generally provides smoother and more reliable performance compared to Windows, but persistent bugs and bottlenecks highlight the need for ongoing driver updates and game patches. Addressing these issues is crucial for improving compatibility and maximizing the device's performance across a broader range of titles. Battery Life: Balancing Performance and Longevity Battery efficiency is a critical factor for handheld gaming devices, and the ROG Ally X features an 80Wh battery designed to support extended play sessions. Running Doom: The Dark Ages at 900p resolution with a 20W TDP offers a balanced approach, delivering reasonable battery life without compromising visual quality or frame rate stability. This configuration allows gamers to enjoy extended sessions without frequent recharging. However, increasing the TDP to 35W to achieve higher frame rates significantly reduces battery life. This trade-off highlights the importance of finding the right configuration to suit individual gaming preferences. For resource-intensive titles like Doom: The Dark Ages, users must weigh the benefits of enhanced performance against the cost of reduced portability and shorter playtime. Opportunities for Improvement The performance of Doom: The Dark Ages on the ROG Ally X reveals several areas where improvements could enhance the overall gaming experience. Addressing these challenges will require collaboration between hardware manufacturers, software developers, and game creators. Key opportunities include: Driver Updates: Regular updates to AMD drivers are essential to unlock the full potential of the Z1 Extreme iGPU. Improved driver support could enable features like frame generation and enhance overall performance. Regular updates to AMD drivers are essential to unlock the full potential of the Z1 Extreme iGPU. Improved driver support could enable features like frame generation and enhance overall performance. Software Optimization: Enhanced compatibility and stability for both SteamOS and Windows would allow the ROG Ally X to support a wider range of titles more effectively. Enhanced compatibility and stability for both SteamOS and Windows would allow the ROG Ally X to support a wider range of titles more effectively. Hardware-Software Collaboration: Close cooperation between game developers and hardware manufacturers is necessary to address optimization challenges and deliver a seamless gaming experience for handheld devices. Close cooperation between game developers and hardware manufacturers is necessary to address optimization challenges and deliver a seamless gaming experience for handheld devices. Battery Management: Innovations in power management could help balance performance and battery life, making sure longer play sessions without sacrificing visual quality or frame rates. By focusing on these areas, the ROG Ally X could evolve into a more versatile and powerful platform for demanding games like Doom: The Dark Ages. These improvements would not only benefit this specific title but also enhance the overall appeal of the device for a broader audience of gamers. Final Thoughts The ROG Ally X, when paired with SteamOS 3.8, offers a compelling yet imperfect solution for playing Doom: The Dark Ages. While the game runs stably at lower resolutions and TDP settings, its performance is hindered by driver limitations and optimization challenges. SteamOS emerges as the more reliable platform for this title compared to Windows, but further improvements are necessary to fully realize the device's potential. For gamers seeking a portable gaming solution, the ROG Ally X provides a solid experience with careful configuration. However, achieving optimal performance will depend on the commitment of developers and hardware manufacturers to address current limitations. With the right updates and innovations, the ROG Ally X could establish itself as a leading choice for handheld gaming enthusiasts. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Forbes
01-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
There's One Huge Problem With That Xbox Handheld Teaser From ASUS
This is not the Xbox handheld you're looking for... Project Kennan, the codename for Microsoft's dedicated Xbox gaming handheld, only exists in the prototype stage and is likely a few years ago. But there's a firestorm of rumors swirling that the first phase of Microsoft's Xbox handheld plans will involve partnering with an existing PC manufacturer, similar to Valve's partnership with Lenovo for the Legion Go S powered by SteamOS. Those rumors strongly suggest ASUS is that partner. However, that new teaser trailer from the ROG Ally X maker isn't worthy of all the excitement it's generating. The excitement is born from the expectation that such a handheld will feature Microsoft's streamlined gaming interface, a sorely needed change to Windows 11 that could make the handheld experience as elegant and intuitive as SteamOS. Microsoft promised the first iteration of it would land this year. So, back to the teaser trailer in question (which is slick and entertaining on its own). It shows ASUS' robot mascot OMNI performing an experiment to upgrade itself, and ends with the existing ROG Ally X and the Raikiri Pro Xbox controller accidentally finding their way into a fusion pod with the mischievous mascot. When ASUS shared the video on X (formerly Twitter), the official Xbox account immediately replied with the classic 'monkey side-eye' meme. That engagement, easily interpreted as a 'knowing wink' from Microsoft, immediately accelerated the hype machine, resulting in a bunch of articles proclaiming this as the first official product in this Xbox handheld partnership. FEATURED | Frase ByForbes™ Unscramble The Anagram To Reveal The Phrase Pinpoint By Linkedin Guess The Category Queens By Linkedin Crown Each Region Crossclimb By Linkedin Unlock A Trivia Ladder Well, not so fast. I don't think this is it. There are several moments in the trailer that point to this being an upgraded ROG Ally X, rather than some highly anticipated Xbox device with this new Windows UI for handhelds. To begin with, the trailer highlights four upgrades: 'Marathon stamina, more capacity, faster speed, and fresh look.' So, let's translate that: it's a ROG Ally X with a larger battery, a larger storage drive, an upgraded processor (probably the Ryzen Z2 Extreme) and a new colorway. Then there's the inclusion of the Raikiri Pro Xbox controller. If this were the fabled Xbox hybrid handheld, why wouldn't an Xbox Series S or Series X have been included? All the evidence points to ASUS simply launching a ROG Ally X Pro. This doesn't mean ASUS isn't Microsoft's hardware partner for that initial Xbox handheld with the SteamOS-like interface, but this teaser trailer isn't hyping the handheld we're all looking forward to.
Yahoo
05-03-2025
- Yahoo
MSI Claw 8 AI+ review: This cat got its bite back
The first time you make anything, it probably won't come out perfect, so it wasn't a huge surprise when MSI's debut gaming handheld struggled out of the gate. And that's before you consider the unorthodox choice to go with an Intel chip instead of one from AMD like practically all of its rivals. However, MSI didn't give up, and now it's back with not one but two versions of its second-gen handheld, headlined by the Claw 8 AI+. Not only is it bigger than before, it has twice as many Thunderbolt 4 ports, a way bigger battery and some of the best performance we've seen from any device in this category. But more importantly, as the follow-up to a device plagued by lackluster software and unfinished drivers, it feels like the Claw got its bite back. Design and display: The desert cat With its 8-inch screen, the Claw 8 AI+ is bigger than its predecessor and a number of its rivals like the ROG Ally X , though it's still smaller than Lenovo's chunky 8.8-inch Legion Go. MSI also zagged by giving it a two-toned black and sandstone chassis. Ergonomics are generally fine, but if I'm nitpicking, I would prefer slightly larger grips for increased comfort. But aside from that, the handheld features a relatively straightforward mix of premium components strewn across a familiar blueprint. Engadget 84 100 Expert Score The new most powerful gaming handheld MSI Claw 8 AI+ A2VM Thanks to its new Intel chip and a massive battery, MSI's Claw 8 AI+ offers great performance and longevity. Unfortunately, with a starting price of $900, it's also more expensive than almost all of its competitors. Pros Hall Effect joysticks and triggers Strong performance Dual Thunderbolt 4 ports Above-average battery life Built-in fingerprint sensor Bright 8-inch 120Hz VRR screen Cons No onboard touchpad MSI Center app feels a bit barebones A bit pricey $900 at Best Buy It has Hall Effect sensors for its joysticks and triggers along with some embedded RGB lighting, the latter of which has become sort of an unspoken requirement among portable gaming PCs these days. You also get two Thunderbolt 4 ports that support both data and charging — which are especially handy if you ever plan on using this thing for productivity — and a microSD card slot for expandable storage. I appreciate that unlike Lenovo's handhelds, MSI included a built-in fingerprint reader that makes unlocking Windows-based devices like the Claw a lot more convenient. That said, you don't get a touchpad, though MSI's software does let you control your cursor with the joysticks, so it's not a complete pain in the butt anytime you have to switch between games and apps. And finally, around back, there's a single pair of paddles. Advertisement As for the display, while it's an IPS panel instead of the super-rich OLEDs on some handhelds, the Claw's screen offers above-average brightness (up to 500 nits), a solid 120Hz refresh rate (with VRR) and the perfect resolution for a system this size (1,920 x 1,200). So all told, there's very little to gripe about when it comes to its visuals. Plus, thanks to some surprisingly punchy front-facing speakers, it has solid audio too. Performance and software: A low-key beast The rear of the Claw 8 AI+ features a pair of paddles and ample venting. Perhaps the biggest surprise is that after lackluster results from MSI's first attempt, the Claw 8 AI+ pumped out strong performance that was easily able to keep up with and sometimes surpass what I've seen from its competitors. Some of that is assuredly due to more polished software and recent driver updates from Intel, but still, between its Intel Core Ultra 7 258V chip, 32GB of RAM and 1TB of SSD storage, the Claw produced framerates that were often 10 to 15 percent higher than what we got from the Ally X. For example, when set to its 30-watt preset, in Cyberpunk 2077 at 800p on medium settings the Claw hit 75 fps versus 65 fps for the ROG Ally X at the same TDP (thermal design power). Meanwhile, in Returnal at 800p on medium, the Claw also bested the Legion Go by reaching 56 fps compared to just 46 fps for the Lenovo. Now it's important to note that MSI's midrange power for the preset on the Claw (which is what I used to get those figures in Returnal) is 17 watts instead of 15 watts like on most of its rivals, which may be MSI's attempt to skew benchmarks in its favor. But even after you account for that, the Claw still comes out ahead. Another nice thing about the Claw is that if you don't want to fiddle around with settings all the time, there's what MSI is calling its AI Engine mode, which will automatically adjust things to optimize performance or battery life depending on what you want. It's a nice option for quickly changing how much horsepower you need, though as always, you're going to need to tweak things manually for the best results. Advertisement The rest of the MSI Center app feels somewhat spartan. There are sections for launching games, performing software updates, changing the RGB lighting and more. You can even install game stores like Steam directly inside the program. But aside from that, the app isn't very fancy or all that pretty to look at. All the important stuff is there though, which is what really counts since Windows 11 as a whole still feels way clunkier to use than more bespoke platforms like Valve's SteamOS. Battery life: Surprisingly good The MSI Claw 8 AI+ features a solid selection of ports including dual USB-C with Thunderbolt 4 and a microSD card slot. The Claw 8 AI+ features an 80Whr cell, which is one of the largest battery packs in this category and allows for prodigious longevity. In Elden Ring on medium settings, the handheld lasted just over three hours on a single charge. That ain't too shabby, especially after my recent testing with the Lenovo Legion Go, which only lasted for two and a half hours at best, and that was when playing a much less demanding game in Metal Slug Tactics. Wrap-up After the original bombed, a lot of companies would have simply called it quits. Sure, a lot of the first system's issues may have been caused by Intel's chip and unpolished drivers more than anything MSI did (or didn't do). But with the Claw 8 AI+, MSI came back and totally redeemed itself. Not only is it a very competent gaming handheld, this cat offers a solid design, great performance and above-average battery life. One of the best features of the MSI Claw 8 AI+ is the inclusion of Hall Effect sensors for both its joysticks and triggers. However, even though it pushes out slightly fewer frames, the $800 ROG Ally X remains a better value (especially if you can find it on sale) and its smaller screen makes it a more portable pick for people planning to game on the go. When it comes to larger competitors, Lenovo's Legion Go offers similar horsepower for even less money with starting prices of $700 (or less, now that it regularly receives discounts). But if you're looking for top-notch performance from a portable PC with an assortment of premium components, the Claw 8 AI+ makes an interesting case as an upgrade pick among gaming handhelds.
