Handheld Xbox Consoles: Do We Really Need Them?
The gaming world has been abuzz with rumors of a handheld Xbox console, but I’m not convinced we need one. With the rise of cloud gaming and the capabilities of our smartphones, I believe we already have a handheld Xbox console in our pockets.
A smartphone and Xbox controller, the perfect handheld gaming combo
The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription offers access to a vast library of games, including Xbox exclusives, and with Xbox Cloud Gaming, we can stream these games to our phones and tablets. All we need is the Game Pass app and a stable internet connection. This means we can play Xbox games on the go, without the need for a dedicated handheld console.
Of course, some may argue that a smartphone screen is too small for a good gaming experience, but with the rise of handheld gaming PCs like the Steam Deck, we have a solution to that problem. The Steam Deck can run Xbox games natively, and with a little tweaking, we can even access Xbox Game Pass via a web browser.
A Steam Deck, a powerful handheld gaming PC
So, do we really need a handheld Xbox console? I don’t think so. Unless Microsoft can create a device that undercuts the Steam Deck in terms of price and offers a significantly better gaming experience, I’m not sure there’s a market for it.
The fact that Sony’s PS Vita never gained much traction and the PlayStation Portal is a niche device shows that even PlayStation struggles with handheld consoles. And let’s not forget Nintendo’s dominance in the handheld gaming market, with decades of experience and goodwill to call upon.
Instead of pursuing new hardware, I think Microsoft should focus on improving its cloud-based game streaming service and optimizing games for use on handheld PCs like the Steam Deck. That way, we can have a seamless gaming experience across all our devices.
Xbox Game Pass on a smartphone, the perfect handheld gaming solution
In conclusion, I don’t think we need a handheld Xbox console. We already have the technology to play Xbox games on the go, and with a little creativity, we can create a great gaming experience on our smartphones and handheld PCs.
