A release date for the ROG Xbox Ally has been revealed, as the handheld gaming PC will be go on sale starting October 16. Microsoft hasn’t confirmed pricing for the devices yet, but it did explain how games will be optimized for these systems. One thing to note here is that there will be two different versions of the ROG Xbox Ally–a base model and a more premium “X” handheld–so performance will vary across them.
During its Gamecom 2025 livestream, Microsoft said that the base model Xbox Ally targets a resolution of 720p, while the Xbox Ally X aims for a 1080p resolution. Both units can run in one of three modes–Silent, Performance, and Turbo–and for frame rates, games that hit certain benchmarks will receive a specific compatibility tag.
Microsoft says that it has worked with game studios to optimize thousands of games for handheld compatibility, with the overall goal here being that you can install them and start playing right away. This has resulted in two tags that will accompany optimized games, similar to Valve’s Steam Deck Verified program for its handheld gaming PC:
Handheld Optimized
Games that are ready to go with default controller inputs, an intuitive text input method, accurate iconography, clear text legibility, and appropriate resolution in full-screen mode.
Mostly Compatible
Games that may require minor in-game setting changes for an optimal experience on handheld.
Additionally, there’ll be other tags that will give you an idea of how well a game will perform on the Xbox Ally:
Should perform well on your device
- Games that run at 30fps or above
Should perform great on your device
- Games that run at 60fps or above
Performance check not available yet
- Games that haven’t been tested yet
Microsoft added that more technical features will also be made available in the future, including advanced shader delivery that preloads game shaders during download. This will make games run more smoothly and use less battery power on first play. Enhancements to the docking experience for the devices are also in the works and several accessories will be released for it as well.
The company also recently spoke about how handheld consoles like the Xbox Ally tie into its next-gen console plans, as Microsoft is looking to create a broad ecosystem for players that will allow them to play their games at home or on the go.
