Lenovo is entering the handheld gaming PC market with its upcoming release of the Legion Go. This Windows-powered gaming handheld will hit the shelves in October and aims to compete with popular devices like Valve’s Steam Deck and Asus’ ROG Ally.
The Legion Go is equipped with an impressive 8.8-inch QHD Plus screen, an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, and a 49.2Wh battery, which is larger than those found in the ROG Ally and the Steam Deck. One notable feature is that the controllers can be detached, providing a versatile gaming experience.
While the Steam Deck is often the first device that comes to mind in this category, the Legion Go is more reminiscent of a hybrid between the Nintendo Switch and the ROG Ally. Lenovo is clearly targeting a similar price point to the Ally, with models starting at $699. Furthermore, the Go runs on Windows, making it compatible with a variety of games and offering more controls tailored towards the operating system.
In terms of size and weight, the Legion Go is heavier than the ROG Ally and the Steam Deck, which may be a downside for frequent travelers who prefer lightweight devices. However, the increased weight allows for a larger battery, potentially providing better battery life compared to its competitors.
The Legion Go features a high-resolution 2560 x 1600 screen with a 144Hz refresh rate. It also offers 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1TB of storage. The device features various ports, including a 3.5mm audio combo jack, USB-Type C, and a microSD reader. Additional USB Type-C ports are located on the bottom for added convenience.
During a demo event, several games were available to try on the Legion Go, such as PowerWash Simulator, Quake II, Evil West, and A Short Hike. While the gaming experience was generally smooth, some reviewers reported issues with certain games not recognizing the correct keys on the handheld. It’s crucial for games to accurately map gamepad buttons, and Lenovo needs to address this problem before the official launch.
One concern is that the Legion Go runs on the regular version of Windows, lacking a specialized interface optimized for handheld gaming. Navigating the operating system using the touchpad or touchscreen may prove challenging for some users. Windows-based handheld gaming devices often face difficulties in delivering an intuitive experience due to the operating system’s lack of optimization for this form factor.
Lenovo’s ability to overcome the challenges of Windows compatibility will play a significant role in the success of the Legion Go. While Asus collaborated closely with Microsoft to optimize the ROG Ally’s UI, Lenovo did not have the same level of involvement from the tech giant. This raises questions about potential glitches and issues that may arise upon the Go’s release.
In conclusion, the Legion Go is Lenovo’s entry into the handheld gaming PC market. It offers impressive specifications, detachable controllers, and a competitive price point. However, the device’s success will depend on how well it integrates with the Windows operating system and overcomes the inherent challenges of navigating a non-optimized interface on a handheld device. Lenovo has the opportunity to carve a niche for itself in this market, but it must address and resolve any potential issues before the October launch.