Key Takeaways
1. The Asus Store suggests the ROG Xbox Ally X will cost €599, while the ROG Xbox Ally will be priced at €899.
2. U.S. pricing remains uncertain, with estimates ranging from $499 to $799, potentially higher due to tariffs.
3. Microsoft announced a Holiday 2025 launch for the ROG Xbox Ally series, with possible earlier availability in October.
4. The new handhelds resemble the Asus ROG Ally series and feature 7-inch 1080p/120Hz displays, lacking OLED screens.
5. Industry skepticism exists regarding the handhelds, with concerns about limited exclusive titles and competition from devices like the Nintendo Switch 2 and Steam Deck.
After the leaker eXtas1s disclosed the prices for the upcoming Xbox handheld options in June, evidence has emerged that backs up his statements. The Asus Store by MacMan, an official Spanish partner for the handheld gaming PC maker, reveals information when you type “Xbox Ally” into the search feature. If this store is accurate, the cost for the ROG Xbox Ally X will be €599, while the ROG Xbox Ally comes in at a higher €899.
Pricing Uncertainty in the U.S.
The pricing for the U.S. market remains unclear, though eXtas1s has proposed $499 and $799 as potential prices. Other experts have predicted that the systems might be a bit pricier due to tariff uncertainties. Microsoft has announced a Holiday 2025 launch for the ROG Xbox Ally series, but Jez Corden from Windows Central believes that an October release could be on the table.
Official Announcement
Microsoft officially introduced the devices during its Xbox Games Showcase on June 8. Instead of launching a brand-new console, the Xbox handheld products resemble the existing Asus ROG Ally series. Gamers can look forward to the same 7-inch 1080p/120Hz displays, as Asus opted not to use more expensive OLED screens. However, in addition to an Xbox control layout, Microsoft guarantees grips designed for better comfort.
Skepticism Among Gamers
Many gamers and industry insiders express doubts regarding these new devices. Former Microsoft Executive Laura Fryer sees the handhelds as a strategy for the company to move away from hardware. Fryer emphasizes that the ROG Xbox Ally options do not offer the straightforwardness typical of traditional consoles. Furthermore, with a shift towards a cross-platform model, there will be limited exclusive Xbox titles to attract buyers.
To draw in a broader audience, Microsoft plans to roll out a full-screen interface that provides access to various marketplaces. Still, the prices of the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X could determine their success. The potentially less expensive Nintendo Switch 2, which supports more AAA games, is a tempting alternative for console gamers. Meanwhile, the market for handheld gaming PCs is competitive, featuring the Steam Deck and several Windows-based options.
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