Hey there, tech lovers! Nuked here, ready to share some exciting gaming news with you.

Back in March, we discussed what we wanted from a new Xbox handheld. Today, Microsoft announced the Asus ROG Xbox Ally, a device that checks nearly all our wishlist boxes for portable gaming.

This handheld runs Windows 11 and grants access to a vast library of games from Xbox, Game Pass, Battle.net, and other popular stores like Steam and Epic Games. Instead of launching each game separately, everything is organized into a single, easy-to-navigate “aggregated gaming library.”

With this setup, you can switch seamlessly between titles using a dedicated library, all while enjoying quick access via the Xbox Game Bar overlay. Support for apps like Discord and Twitch is built-in, making social gaming a breeze.

The device features a sleek, gaming-focused interface that hides the Windows desktop by default, allowing more resources to go toward gaming performance. Plus, it has a special Xbox button that opens a quick menu for settings and performance metrics, so you stay in the zone.

Microsoft is also working on a “Deck Verified” system to identify which Windows games are optimized for handheld play, making sure you get the best experience.

Design-wise, the Xbox Ally includes rounded grips to avoid the “flat finger problem” seen on some handhelds. There are two configurations: a base model with a Ryzen Z2 processor, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage; and a premium Xbox Ally X with a Ryzen Z2 Extreme, 24GB RAM, and 1TB storage. Both have a 7-inch 1080p, 120Hz display and weigh roughly the same as the Steam Deck, with the X model being slightly heavier.

Pricing details are still under wraps, but Microsoft plans to release these devices in North America, Japan, Australia, Europe, and Asia around the holiday season. It’s clear that Microsoft is betting big on a specialized Windows-based handheld for gamers everywhere.