"Switch 2 Confronts New Challenge: Handheld Gaming PCs"

The anticipation for the Nintendo Switch 2 is palpable, but its hefty $449.99 price tag and $79.99 games have me reconsidering my investment. My current setup with the Asus ROG Ally has already diminished my use of the original Nintendo Switch, and the new model's issues seem amplified in today's market, especially with the rise of handheld gaming PCs.

Asus ROG Ally Is All I Need

As a lifelong handheld gamer, I've cherished devices from the Game Boy to the PlayStation Portable. There's nothing quite like the comfort of playing games under a cozy blanket in bed. I even stood by the PlayStation Vita during my college years, playing it on my daily train commute.

The Nintendo Switch was a game-changer when it launched in 2017. I bought it near launch, but my usage was limited to exclusives. For games that felt right for handheld play, my mind categorized them as "Reserved for handheld," making it difficult to enjoy them on any other platform.

However, if those games were available for free on platforms like Epic Games Store, Game Pass, PlayStation Plus, or Humble Choice, I felt reluctant to repurchase them on the Switch. The lack of significant discounts on Switch games compounded this issue. This cycle of "Why waste money on a game I already own?" versus "I want to play this on a handheld" often led to me not playing the game at all.

The arrival of the Asus ROG Ally in 2023 broke this cycle. Running on Windows 11, it provides access to Steam, Game Pass, Epic Games, and more, allowing me to play games I previously avoided due to discomfort on a PC, right from the comfort of my bed.

Now, I enjoy a vast array of indie games on my Ally, tackling my backlog with enthusiasm. Without the Ally, I would have missed out on gems like Celeste, Little Nightmares II, and Resident Evil Remake, which are now among my favorites, and I didn't have to spend extra to play them. The Ally has become my preferred handheld and has saved me a significant amount of money.

Despite my excitement for the Nintendo Switch 2 announcement, the Switch 2 Direct has left me questioning its place in my gaming life.

When the original Switch launched, it was more than just a platform for exclusives. Its versatile design and lower price point made it an attractive entry into gaming. At the time, it was the only viable handheld option, offering great exclusives at an affordable price.

The Switch 2 Isn’t Alone Anymore

Priced at $449 at launch, the Nintendo Switch 2 faces stiff competition. It's close to the $499 PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, with the PS5's $399 digital edition being a more affordable alternative at launch. Over the past eight years, the Switch's design has spurred a wave of competitors. The Steam Deck led the charge in 2022, followed by devices like the Asus ROG Ally, Lenovo Legion Go, and MSI Claw. Rumors suggest Xbox might even be developing its own handheld. The Switch 2 is no longer unique, making it a less compelling choice for those who already own a handheld gaming PC like myself.

Handheld gaming PCs boast powerful hardware capable of running indie and third-party games with ease. With access to a vast library and all your existing games, they offer a versatile gaming solution. The upcoming AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme chipsets promise to further enhance their capabilities, potentially outmatching the Switch 2 in the near future.

For owners of handheld gaming PCs, the Switch 2's high entry cost and limited use for Nintendo exclusives make it a less appealing investment. With games like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza priced at $79.99 and $69.99 respectively, and considering the rarity of discounts on Nintendo titles, the cost can be prohibitive.

Nintendo's exclusives undoubtedly hold immense value, featuring some of the most iconic games ever made. For many, the Switch 2's lineup over the next few years will justify its price. However, for those of us with handheld gaming PCs, the allure is diminished.

In conclusion, the Nintendo Switch 2 may not be the best investment for everyone, especially for those who already own a handheld gaming PC. Devices like the Legion Go offer superior performance and access to a broader range of games. My Asus ROG Ally meets all my handheld gaming needs, providing access to multiple storefronts and a more comprehensive gaming experience.