Key Takeaways
1. The ROG Xbox Ally allows users to play games from various platforms, including Steam and adapted PS4/PS5 titles.
2. Xbox President Sarah Bond discussed the potential for PlayStation Studios games to run on the ROG Xbox Ally during the Tokyo Game Show.
3. The introduction of the ROG Xbox Ally expands access to previously exclusive games for Xbox Series X and S users.
4. Some gamers express concerns about the future of Xbox consoles due to price hikes and declining sales, despite Bond’s support for them.
5. Analysts question Microsoft’s strategy and the classification of the ROG Xbox Ally, noting its limitations compared to current Windows 11 gaming handhelds.
An advantage of the ROG Xbox Ally is that it can play games from various platforms. This includes access to Steam, allowing users to enjoy PS4 and PS5 titles that have been adapted for Windows. In a recent discussion, Xbox President Sarah Bond highlighted the flexibility of this new gaming handheld.
Insights from the Tokyo Game Show
During the Tokyo Game Show 2025, the Japanese outlet Game Watch had a chat with Bond. One of the questions raised was about which Xbox titles might make their way to the PS5. While Bond didn’t drop any hints, she mentioned that the “ROG Xbox Ally is capable of running PlayStation Studios games like Marvel’s Spider-Man.”
Expanding Gaming Horizons
Xbox and PlayStation have already collaborated on several previously exclusive games that can be played across platforms. However, the introduction of the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X brings fresh opportunities. Aside from Helldivers 2 and MLB: The Show, owners of Series X and S had previously needed a PC to access a broader range of PS5 titles. Even with Sony sticking to exclusive release periods, popular games such as Death Stranding and Horizon Zero Dawn eventually made their way to Steam.
Concerns from Fans
While a segment of gamers is excited about the new handhelds, others are worried about the future of Xbox consoles. The Xbox Series X|S has seen several price hikes, and sales have dropped, leading retailers like Costco to stop carrying the consoles. Nevertheless, Bond is not prepared to give up on these devices. She emphasized that they continue to be “very important hardware” within the Xbox ecosystem.
Questions Surrounding Microsoft’s Strategy
Given the recent developments, both analysts and gamers are skeptical about Microsoft’s approach. Some critics are even questioning the classification of the ROG Xbox Ally as a console. Although it features the new Xbox full-screen experience, it lacks many functions that are already available on current Windows 11 gaming handhelds. Playing older Xbox games that are locked to consoles cannot be done without emulation or cloud streaming.
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