Latest news with #SteamDeck
Tom's Guide
a day ago
- Tom's Guide
Xbox's Switch 2 competitor may have hit the wall as Microsoft presses pause on handheld console
We've heard numerous rumors about Microsoft working on an Xbox handheld gaming console to compete with the Steam Deck and the Nintendo Switch 2. The console is said to be a native Xbox handheld, but a new report suggests that Microsoft is shelving it to focus on other priorities. According to a report by Windows Central, Microsoft has decided to halt development on the handheld, which was rumored to launch in 2027. This isn't the handheld codenamed "Kennan," as that's still on track. The one being put on the shelf is a native Xbox device, more akin to the Nintendo Switch 2 than a Steam Deck or Windows handheld. It was designed to run full Xbox games like a traditional console. According to the report, Microsoft has three console prototypes in development for its next-generation gaming platforms. The handheld would have been the fourth potential device. It's important to note that this is just temporary. Microsoft still has handheld gaming on its radar. Part of that focus is shifted to improving Windows 11's handheld gaming performance, but it's also about releasing its handheld console at some point. "Microsoft is still deeply investing in developing its own Xbox gaming handheld technology in the future," reads the Windows Central report. The company is also focused on cloud gaming. The report states that the company is now testing next-generation Xbox cloud systems at its headquarters, which is exciting for those with fast enough internet to take advantage of the cloud's processing power. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Perhaps Microsoft plans to see how the Asus Kennan device does before it dips its toe more aggressively into the space. Rather than risking its resources, Microsoft can utilize its partnership with Asus to gauge whether gamers are ready for a handheld with Xbox branding attached.
Scottish Sun
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Secret Xbox ‘put on hold' in launch cancellation for console that would've rivalled new Nintendo & PlayStation machines
But another Xbox machine is still on the horizon BOXED UP Secret Xbox 'put on hold' in launch cancellation for console that would've rivalled new Nintendo & PlayStation machines Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A TOP-SECRET Xbox console that was potentially due out in just two years has been shelved. New reports suggest the unannounced Microsoft machine has been paused indefinitely – with its planned launch cancelled entirely. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 The rumoured Xbox console would've been a rival to Sony's PlayStation Portal Credit: Sony PlayStation 5 Microsoft's most recent console was the Xbox Series X, which came out in 2020 Credit: Microsoft Xbox 5 A future Microsoft handheld device would've allowed Xbox fans to easily play games on the go Credit: Microsoft Xbox Rumours of a handheld Xbox console have been circulating for years.. And in 2024, Microsoft's Xbox gaming boss Phil Spencer confirmed that the company was prototyping the machine. It would've lived alongside the plug-in-to-your-telly Xbox Series X as a more portable option for gamers. But a new report from Windows Central warns that Microsoft has "shifted priorities" and is pausing work on the gadget entirely. Instead, the report notes, Microsoft will pour its efforts into boosting Windows 11 gaming performance. That will help Microsoft boost the Asus partner gadget Project Kennan, which is a handheld gaming machine instead built by the Taiwanese tech giant. It notes that Microsoft would still like to produce a gaming handheld in the future, but is going to spend its time RIVAL MACHINES Microsoft will be feeling the pressure from gamers to compete with its industry rivals. Back in November 2023, Sony released the handheld PlayStation Portal. This portable gadget device streams video games from your PS5 over the internet – and has a built-in controller. Hands-on with the Nintendo Switch 2 Japanese gaming giant Nintendo is also nearly ready to debut its next big handheld. The new Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to land in stores on June 5. It'll plug into televisions – but can also work undocked as a portable gaming device for when you're out and about. And Nintendo saw runaway success with its original Switch console, which launched back in 2017. 5 This year marks the launch of the new Nintendo Switch 2 Credit: Nintendo Also worrying Microsoft will be the Steam Deck, which is a handheld gaming device built by Valve. The gaming giant is responsible for the virtual Steam store, which is one of the main ways PC gamers buy and play titles on their computers. Valve's Steam Deck lets players enjoy PC games on the go, and has been available since 2022. To fend off these rivals, Microsoft has partnered with Asus to help with its upcoming Project Kennan portable device. 5 Valve's Steam Deck is a hit with PC gamers looking to play titles on the move Credit: Valve / Steam This will be an official Xbox partnership, but it's not an in-house Microsoft product like the paused handheld machine would've been. Microsoft is still expected to release a major new at-home console in the next few years. This will be a sequel to the Xbox Series X, and could land in 2027 or 2028 – as a direct rival to the rumoured Sony PlayStation 6. The Sun has asked Microsoft for comment and will update this story with any response.
Geeky Gadgets
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Geeky Gadgets
SteamOS ROG Ally vs Legion GO S vs Steam Deck OLED : Handheld Games Consoles Compared
What if your next gaming session didn't have to be tethered to a desk or console? The rise of handheld gaming consoles has transformed how we play, offering the freedom to take AAA titles or indie gems on the go. With Valve's bold move to extend official SteamOS support to third-party devices, the competition among portable gaming systems has never been fiercer—or more exciting. Enter the Steam Deck OLED, Lenovo Legion Go S, and ASUS ROG Ally: three distinct handhelds vying for your attention with their unique blend of power, design, and features. But which one truly delivers the best experience for your gaming style? In this comprehensive comparison, ETA Prime compares the specs, performance, battery life, and usability of these standout devices. Whether you're drawn to the vivid OLED display of the Steam Deck, the larger screen real estate of the Legion Go S, or the raw power and customization potential of the ROG Ally, this overview will help you navigate the intricate landscape of handheld gaming. By the end, you'll have a clearer picture of which console aligns with your gaming priorities—be it portability, performance, or immersive visuals. Let's explore what sets these devices apart and why your next gaming adventure might just fit in the palm of your hand. Handheld Gaming Console Comparison Steam Deck OLED: Balanced Efficiency and Seamless Compatibility The Steam Deck OLED represents an evolution of Valve's original Steam Deck, introducing a 7.4-inch OLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate. This upgrade enhances the visual experience with vibrant colors and deeper contrasts, making games more immersive. Powered by a custom AMD Zen 2 APU (4 cores, 8 threads) and an RDNA2 GPU, the device delivers a balanced performance suitable for a wide range of games. With pricing starting at $439 for refurbished models and reaching $649 for new units, it remains an accessible choice for many gamers. One of the Steam Deck OLED's standout features is its optimized SteamOS, which ensures smooth compatibility with an extensive library of games. Its battery life is another strong point, offering up to 5+ hours for indie games and approximately 2 hours for AAA titles at a 15W TDP. This makes it an excellent option for gamers who value energy efficiency, ease of use, and a robust game library. The device's compact design and seamless integration with Steam's ecosystem further enhance its appeal for casual and dedicated gamers alike. Lenovo Legion Go S: Bigger Screen, Enhanced Comfort The Lenovo Legion Go S differentiates itself with an 8-inch IPS display featuring a 120Hz variable refresh rate. This larger screen provides a more immersive gaming experience, particularly for players who prioritize screen real estate and smoother visuals. Under the hood, the device is powered by the Ryzen Z2 Go APU, which incorporates Zen 3+ architecture, 4 cores, 8 threads, and a 12-compute-unit RDNA2 GPU. Prices range from $580 for open-box models to $649 for new units, positioning it as a direct competitor to the Steam Deck OLED. Although the IPS display lacks the color depth and contrast of OLED technology, its larger size and higher refresh rate make it a compelling choice for gamers who value visual fluidity. The Legion Go S offers comparable battery life to the Steam Deck OLED, though it tends to drain faster during AAA gaming sessions. Its ergonomic design ensures comfort during extended play, making it particularly suitable for users who engage in long gaming sessions. Additionally, the device's larger screen enhances its usability for multitasking or streaming content, adding versatility to its feature set. 2025 Handheld Games Consoles Compared Watch this video on YouTube. Below are more guides on SteamOS from our extensive range of articles. ASUS ROG Ally: High Performance with Customization Potential The ASUS ROG Ally stands out as the most powerful device in this comparison, designed for gamers who demand top-tier performance. It features the Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU, built on Zen 4 architecture, with 8 cores, 16 threads, and a 12-compute-unit RDNA3 GPU. This advanced hardware enables the ROG Ally to handle demanding AAA titles with ease, delivering smooth gameplay and impressive graphical fidelity. The device includes a 7-inch IPS display with a 120Hz variable refresh rate and is priced between $440 for open-box models and $649 for new units. While the ROG Ally's stock 40Wh battery limits its runtime, upgrading to a 65Wh battery significantly improves its endurance, making it more suitable for extended gaming sessions. Its mod-friendly design appeals to enthusiasts who enjoy customizing their devices, whether through hardware upgrades or software tweaks. Performance benchmarks consistently place the ROG Ally ahead of its competitors, excelling in graphically intensive games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Shadow of the Tomb Raider. However, its shorter battery life and higher power consumption may require compromises for gamers prioritizing portability. Performance Benchmarks and Battery Life: Key Differences Performance and battery life are critical factors when comparing these handheld gaming devices. Each device offers unique strengths in these areas, catering to different gaming styles and preferences. Steam Deck OLED: Focuses on efficiency, offering the best runtime for indie games and steady performance for casual gaming sessions. Focuses on efficiency, offering the best runtime for indie games and steady performance for casual gaming sessions. Lenovo Legion Go S: Balances a larger screen and higher refresh rate with competitive performance, though its battery life may fall short during intensive gaming. Balances a larger screen and higher refresh rate with competitive performance, though its battery life may fall short during intensive gaming. ASUS ROG Ally: Delivers unmatched performance for AAA titles but requires a battery upgrade to sustain longer playtimes. The ROG Ally leads in raw performance, using its advanced Zen 4 architecture and RDNA3 GPU to handle demanding games effortlessly. The Legion Go S offers a middle ground, with its larger display and 120Hz refresh rate enhancing gameplay for visually demanding titles. Meanwhile, the Steam Deck OLED excels in indie game performance and energy efficiency, making it a reliable choice for casual gamers. Choosing the Right Handheld Gaming Console Selecting the ideal handheld gaming console depends on your individual gaming priorities and preferences. Each device in this comparison caters to specific needs, offering distinct advantages: Steam Deck OLED: Best suited for gamers who prioritize compatibility, ease of use, and energy efficiency. Its optimized SteamOS and extensive game library make it a versatile choice for casual and indie gaming. Best suited for gamers who prioritize compatibility, ease of use, and energy efficiency. Its optimized SteamOS and extensive game library make it a versatile choice for casual and indie gaming. Lenovo Legion Go S: Ideal for those who value a larger display and ergonomic design, making it perfect for extended gaming sessions and multitasking. Ideal for those who value a larger display and ergonomic design, making it perfect for extended gaming sessions and multitasking. ASUS ROG Ally: Tailored for performance enthusiasts who seek maximum capability and are willing to invest in upgrades for extended playtime and customization. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your gaming style and priorities. Whether you're drawn to performance, display quality, or battery life, these devices offer compelling options for handheld gaming enthusiasts. Carefully evaluate your needs to determine which device aligns best with your gaming preferences and lifestyle. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gadgets 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.
The Irish Sun
a day ago
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Secret Xbox ‘put on hold' in launch cancellation for console that would've rivalled new Nintendo & PlayStation machines
A TOP-SECRET Xbox console that was potentially due out in just two years has been shelved. New reports suggest the unannounced Microsoft machine has been paused indefinitely – with its planned launch cancelled entirely. Advertisement 5 The rumoured Xbox console would've been a rival to Sony's PlayStation Portal Credit: Sony PlayStation 5 Microsoft's most recent console was the Xbox Series X, which came out in 2020 Credit: Microsoft Xbox 5 A future Microsoft handheld device would've allowed Xbox fans to easily play games on the go Credit: Microsoft Xbox Rumours of a handheld Xbox console have been circulating for years.. And in 2024, Microsoft's Xbox gaming boss Phil Spencer confirmed that the company was prototyping the machine. It would've lived alongside the plug-in-to-your-telly Xbox Series X as a more portable option for gamers. But a new report from Advertisement Read more on PlayStation Instead, the report notes, Microsoft will pour its efforts into boosting Windows 11 gaming performance. That will help Microsoft boost the Asus partner gadget Project Kennan, which is a handheld gaming machine instead built by the Taiwanese tech giant. It notes that Microsoft would still like to produce a gaming handheld in the future , but is going to spend its time RIVAL MACHINES Microsoft will be feeling the pressure from gamers to compete with its industry rivals. Advertisement Most read in Gaming Back in November 2023, Sony released the handheld PlayStation Portal. This portable gadget device streams video games from your PS5 over the internet – and has a built-in controller. Hands-on with the Nintendo Switch 2 Japanese gaming giant Nintendo is also nearly ready to debut The new Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to land in stores on June 5. Advertisement It'll plug into televisions – but can also work undocked as a And Nintendo saw runaway success with its 5 This year marks the launch of the new Nintendo Switch 2 Credit: Nintendo Also worrying Microsoft will be the Steam Deck, which is a handheld gaming device built by Valve. Advertisement The gaming giant is responsible for the virtual Steam store, which is one of the main ways PC gamers buy and play titles on their computers. Valve's Steam Deck lets players enjoy PC games on the go, and has been available since 2022. To fend off these rivals, Microsoft has partnered with Asus to help with its upcoming Project Kennan portable device. 5 Valve's Steam Deck is a hit with PC gamers looking to play titles on the move Credit: Valve / Steam Advertisement This will be an official Xbox partnership, but it's not an in-house Microsoft product like the paused handheld machine would've been. Microsoft is still expected to release a major new at-home console in the next few years. This will be a sequel to the Xbox Series X, and could land in 2027 or 2028 – as a direct rival to the rumoured Sony PlayStation 6. The Sun has asked Microsoft for comment and will update this story with any response. Advertisement A HISTORY OF XBOX CONSOLE RELEASES Here's when previous Xbox consoles came out... Xbox – November 2001 Xbox 360 – November 2005 Xbox One – November 2013 Xbox Series X / S – November 2020 Picture Credit: Microsoft Xbox
Time of India
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
How to play Elden Ring Nightreign smoothly on Steam Deck?
Elden Ring has always been a favourite on Steam Deck, so it's no surprise that Elden Ring Nightreign, the new multiplayer spin-off, is also getting plenty of attention from handheld players. Even though it's not Steam Deck Verified yet, it still works fine. Gamers just need to adjust a few things first. Unlike the original game, Nightreign is only marked as 'playable,' which means it might not work perfectly out of the box. That said, this roguelike version is a great fit for quick sessions on the go. Once players tweak the graphics settings, the game holds up well with smooth frame rates and fast loading. Best Steam Deck settings for Elden Ring Nightreign To get the best experience, keep a balance between visuals and performance. Here's a recommended setup: Resolution: 1280x720 Texture Quality: Medium Antialiasing Quality: High SSAO: Medium Depth of Field: Low Motion Blur: Low Shadow Quality: Low Lighting Quality: Medium Effects Quality: Low Volumetric Lighting: Low Reflection Quality: Low Shader Quality: Low Global Illumination: Low Grass Quality: Medium With this setup, you'll get around 30 to 40 frames per second during most of the game. There's no built-in frame limiter in Nightreign, but the Steam Deck lets you set one. To avoid stutters, it's best to lock the frame rate at 30 FPS. You can try for 40, but the game's performance jumps around a bit, especially during busy scenes, so expect a few hiccups. Performance tips for battles A pallid mist rose from the Night - ancient, colder than death spilled from its ruinous the call of battle, one week left until the release of #ELDENRING # now: In boss fights or big moments, the game might slow down slightly because of flashy effects. If you notice performance drops while taking damage, try lowering Lighting Quality and Texture Quality to low. That should help smooth out the action when the screen gets crowded. Even though the game isn't fully optimised yet, it still plays well on Steam Deck. And since FromSoftware has already addressed some frame rate problems on PC, it's likely more updates are coming soon. Once those patches roll out, Nightreign should get even better and may even earn that green check mark for Steam Deck Verified status like the original. Until then, lock your frame rate, tweak a few graphics, and enjoy short roguelike runs in handheld mode.
