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Nintendo has reigned supreme for decades in the handheld gaming market, with the Switch being the latest in a long line of successful portable consoles. However, rumors of a potential Xbox handheld have been gaining traction, and if true, it could pose the biggest threat to Nintendo’s dominance yet.

Promotional image of the Steam Deck OLED handheld gaming PC by Valve.

With the success of devices like the Steam Deck and ROG Ally paving the way, Microsoft may be in a unique position to learn from their triumphs and missteps, potentially creating a handheld console that could give the Switch 2 a run for its money.

The Rise of Handheld PC Gaming

TheSteam DeckandROG Allyhave proven that there’s a market for powerful, portable gaming devices outside of Nintendo’s ecosystem. These handheld PCs have demonstrated the potential for a more open and flexible approach to portable gaming, allowing players to access their existing libraries and enjoy a wider range of titles on the go.

Valve Will Support SteamOS On More Handheld Devices Going Forward, Beginning With the ROG Ally

Microsoft, with its extensive experience in both console and PC gaming, could be well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. By leveraging the lessons learned from the Steam Deck and ROG Ally, the company could create a handheld that combines the best of both worlds—the ease of use and simplicity of a console with the flexibility and power of a PC.

Imagine an Xbox handheld that not only plays the latest Xbox (and of course, Windows PC) games but also allows players to access their Xbox Game Pass library and even stream games from their home console using Xbox Cloud Gaming. With features like these, an Xbox handheld could be a formidable competitor to the Switch 2.

Promotional image of the Asus ROG Ally X.

The Future of Nintendo’s Handheld Dominance

Of course,Nintendoisn’t one to rest on its laurels either. Rumors of a Switch 2 have been circulating for months, with some reports suggesting that the new console could feature upgraded hardware, a larger screen, and other improvements.

In fact,a recent Nintendo patent for a new wireless devicehas sparked speculation about potential features for the Switch 2. While the specifics of this device remain unclear, it’s a reminder that Nintendo is always looking for ways to innovate and stay ahead of the curve.

Valve Will Support SteamOS On More Handheld Devices Going Forward, Beginning With the ROG Ally

However, even with these potential upgrades, the upcoming Switch 2 may face stiff competition from an Xbox handheld. With Microsoft’s resources and expertise, the company could create a device that not only matches the Switch 2 in terms of portability and ease of use but also surpasses it in terms of power and flexibility.

Switch 2 Release Update is Bad News for Fans Expecting a Major Overhaul of One Nintendo Feature

Of course, all of this is still speculation at this point. Microsoft has yet to officially announce any plans for an Xbox handheld, and the Switch 2 remains shrouded in mystery. However, if the rumors are true, we could be on the cusp of a new era in handheld gaming—one where Nintendo no longer holds all the cards.

As we eagerly await more details on the Switch 2 and the potential Xbox handheld, it’s clear that the portable gaming market is ripe for disruption. And with the success of devices like the Steam Deck and ROG Ally, it seems like only a matter of time before a new challenger emerges to take on Nintendo’s handheld crown.

Promotional image of the Nintendo Switch’s The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom special edition.

What do you think about the possibility of an Xbox handheld? Could it dethrone the Switch 2, or will Nintendo continue to dominate the portable gaming market? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Soumyajit Mukherjee

Gaming Writer

Articles Published :966

Soumyajit Mukherjee is a Gaming Writer at FandomWire, known for his deep dives into tactical shooters and co-op games. Since joining in June 2024, he’s focused on breakout multiplayer titles like Helldivers 2 and Marvel Rivals, bringing sharp analysis and veteran instincts to every story. His gaming journey began at a local café with the OG Modern Warfare 2, and from that very first frag, he’s been chasing the rush ever since.A former competitive Rainbow Six Siege team captain, Soumyajit has played and written about everything from CS:GO, Valorant, Overwatch, and Apex Legends to Rocket League, Call of Duty, and Battlefield. He’s proudly PC-first and has been since said LAN days… but with GTA 6 looming on the horizon, a long-overdue PS5 might finally sneak onto his setup.

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HandheldMicrosoftNintendo Switch 2ROG AllySteam Deck

Switch 2 Release Update is Bad News for Fans Expecting a Major Overhaul of One Nintendo Feature