As a gaming enthusiast always on the lookout for the latest tech, I was thrilled to pick up the ASUS ROG Ally from Best Buy. The device was on sale due to the announcement of the newer ROG Ally X, and I managed to save even more by opting for an open box version. Thankfully, the open box purchase turned out to be a great decision with no issues on that front. Here’s my experience with the ROG Ally so far.
Initial Impressions
One of the first things that struck me about the ROG Ally was how much easier it is to switch between different game stores and download games on Windows compared to the Steam Deck. The flexibility of Windows allowed me to seamlessly install Xbox Game Pass, Rockstar Games Launcher, Steam, and GOG Galaxy without any major hiccups. This multi-store compatibility is a significant advantage over the Steam Deck, which tends to be more user-friendly but primarily optimized for the Steam Store.
Operating System Challenges
Despite the versatility of Windows, it’s not the ideal operating system for a handheld device. While it works, the experience isn’t as smooth or intuitive as one might hope for. I encountered some frustrating issues, particularly with the Steam store taking over controls when launching games from other services. This interference was annoying and disrupted the seamless gaming experience I was aiming for.
Emulator Setup Struggles
Having previously used EmuDeck on the Steam Deck, I was anticipating a similar easy setup for emulators on the ROG Ally. Unfortunately, this wasn’t the case. Setting up some of the emulators proved to be a challenge, and there are still a few that I’m struggling to get running properly. My current schedule, which includes a hectic move, has limited the time I can dedicate to troubleshooting these issues, adding to my frustration.
Performance and Gaming Experience
Despite the usability challenges, the ROG Ally shows promising potential. I have yet to fully test it with some AAA games, but the initial performance has been impressive. The device handles a variety of games from different launchers without significant issues, which is a testament to its powerful hardware.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the ASUS ROG Ally has been a mix of highs and lows. On the positive side, the device’s compatibility with multiple game stores and its robust performance are standout features. However, the usability issues and difficulties with emulator setup have been significant drawbacks.
For those considering the ROG Ally, it’s essential to weigh these pros and cons. If you value flexibility and are willing to navigate some usability hurdles, the ROG Ally could be a great addition to your gaming arsenal. However, if ease of use and a seamless experience are your top priorities, you might want to explore other options or wait for future updates that could address these issues.
In conclusion, while the ROG Ally has its promising aspects, it also has room for improvement. As I continue to explore its capabilities and test more games, I remain hopeful that it will ultimately meet my expectations.