Switch 2 Faces New Challenge: Handheld Gaming PCs

The buzz around the Nintendo Switch 2's imminent release is undeniable, yet its hefty $449.99 price tag and games costing $79.99 have given me pause. Since acquiring an Asus ROG Ally, my original Nintendo Switch has seen less action, and the issues I had with it seem even more pronounced in its successor, particularly in today's era of advanced handheld gaming PCs.

Asus ROG Ally Is All I Need

My journey with handheld gaming began in childhood, spanning from the Game Boy to the Nintendo DS and PlayStation Portable. There's something uniquely comforting about gaming from the cozy confines of my bed. I even cherished my PlayStation Vita, using it daily during my college train commute.

The Nintendo Switch was a revelation when it launched in 2017, and I was quick to jump on board. However, I primarily used it for exclusives. For games that felt right for handheld play, I reserved them mentally for the Switch, unable to enjoy them elsewhere. Yet, the dilemma arose when these games were available for free on platforms like Epic Games Store, Game Pass, PlayStation Plus, or Humble Choice. The reluctance to repurchase games, compounded by the rarity and mildness of Switch game discounts, often led me to not play them at all.

The introduction of the Asus ROG Ally in 2023 changed everything. This Windows 11-powered handheld gaming PC opened up a world of gaming on Steam, Game Pass, Epic Games, and more, right from the comfort of my bed. It allowed me to dive into indie gems like Celeste, Little Nightmares II, and Resident Evil Remake—games that have since become some of my all-time favorites—without the need to repurchase them. The Ally has not only become my preferred handheld but has also saved me a significant amount of money.

Despite my excitement for the Nintendo Switch 2 announcement, my enthusiasm waned after the Switch 2 Direct. Nintendo's games hold a special place in my heart, but the original Switch's allure was more than just its exclusives; its versatile design and affordable entry price made it a compelling ecosystem. It was the only viable handheld option at the time, boasting great exclusives and a unique design.

The Switch 2 Isn’t Alone Anymore

Priced at $449 at launch, the Nintendo Switch 2 enters a crowded market, closely competing with the $499 PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. The PS5 even had a more affordable $399 digital edition at launch. Over the past eight years, the handheld gaming landscape has evolved significantly. The Steam Deck led the charge in 2022, followed by a wave of handheld gaming PCs like the Asus ROG Ally, Lenovo Legion Go, and MSI Claw. Rumors suggest Xbox might be developing its own handheld. The Switch 2's uniqueness has faded, making it a less appealing investment for those who already own a handheld gaming PC like me.

Handheld gaming PCs boast powerful hardware capable of running indies and third-party games with ease. They offer access to a vast library and all the games you already own, making them versatile platforms. With advancements like the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme on the horizon, the Switch 2 could soon be outclassed.

For those with a handheld gaming PC, the Switch 2's steep entry price and limited use for Nintendo exclusives make it less attractive. With games like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza priced at $79.99 and $69.99 respectively, and given Nintendo's rare discounts on first-party titles, the investment feels less justified.

Nintendo's exclusives offer undeniable value, contributing some of the most iconic games in history. For many, the Switch 2's future lineup might justify its cost. However, for someone like me with a handheld gaming PC, the Switch 2's appeal is diminished. Systems like the Legion Go provide superior performance and access to a broad range of games. My Asus ROG Ally fulfills everything I once turned to the Switch for, making it the better choice for gaming on the go.