The Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck have emerged as remarkable achievements in the gaming industry, successfully integrating AAA gaming experiences into portable devices. Their manufacturers, Nintendo and Valve, have managed to strike a delicate balance between performance, efficiency, and user-friendliness. However, this success poses challenges for other companies attempting to enter the handheld gaming market, particularly those relying on Microsoft’s Windows operating system.
Handheld Gaming Landscape
In the wake of the Switch and Steam Deck's triumphs, a flurry of companies connected to gaming hardware are eager to develop their own handheld devices. Yet, a critical aspect that many are overlooking is the necessity of creating a custom operating system. Instead, manufacturers like Asus and MSI are opting for Windows, which presents significant drawbacks for the ecosystem.
While it may appear that these manufacturers are choosing Windows for its broader game compatibility—allowing access to platforms like Epic Games, GOG, and Battle.net—the reality is more straightforward: they often lack the resources to develop their own operating systems. Building a robust OS is no small feat; Valve spent over a decade perfecting Steam OS and the Proton compatibility layer to enable Windows games to run on it. For manufacturers seeking a quicker route to market, Windows seems like the only viable option.
However, this choice does not eliminate the need for ongoing development. For instance, since the launch of the ROG Ally, Asus has been diligently releasing updates to enhance the software experience. This includes optimizing games for portable hardware and designing interfaces tailored for controller use, recognizing that most consumers prefer not to use a keyboard and mouse with their handheld devices. Yet, during this process, customers are effectively serving as beta testers, navigating a long-term project that may soon feel outdated, as seen with the MSI Claw.
Challenges of Windows
The situation is reminiscent of early adopters of Android phones, who endured subpar experiences in exchange for future improvements. However, the core issues with running Windows on gaming handhelds stem from the operating system itself, which manufacturers have limited ability to modify.
When companies like Asus and MSI license Windows, they encounter strict limitations. They can customize certain aspects, such as including their own applications and adjusting power settings, but they cannot fundamentally alter how Windows operates. A prime example of this limitation is how Windows handles low battery notifications. Unlike dedicated gaming handhelds that provide discreet alerts, Windows interrupts users with intrusive pop-up messages, disrupting gameplay and requiring user interaction to dismiss.
This behavior is not something manufacturers can change; it is a fundamental aspect of Windows that Microsoft controls. Consequently, until Microsoft addresses these usability concerns, handheld gaming devices will continue to grapple with these frustrating quirks. Additionally, Microsoft mandates that certain software, such as Teams and Office 365, be included with its licenses, which can feel out of place on a gaming device.
Glimmers of Improvement
In late 2023, Microsoft unveiled a preview of its Xbox app featuring a Compact Mode, designed specifically for gaming handhelds running Windows. This new interface aims to provide a more intuitive experience for controller input, reminiscent of the Steam Deck. Notable updates include the “Jump Back In” feature, allowing players to quickly access their most recently played games—a functionality that has long been standard on competing devices.
However, the current iteration of the Xbox app only lists games purchased through Microsoft, limiting the Jump Back In feature to titles like Solitaire. While these developments show promise, they also highlight the ongoing challenges faced by manufacturers relying on Windows for their handheld gaming devices.
