Designed in partnership with Xbox, these exceptional gaming handhelds offer incredible gen-on-gen performance gainsKEY POINTS Order now: Pre-orders for ROG Xbox Ally X and ROG Xbox Ally start at 8:00 p.m. ET on September 25, 2025, in select regionsSerious gen-on-gen performance: AMD Ryzen™ AI Z2 Extreme and Z2 A processors offer exceptional gaming experiences and battery life improvements TORONTO, Sept. 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) today announced that pre-orders for the new R ...

Core Insights - The gaming console market is experiencing significant developments in 2023, with major players like Nintendo, Microsoft, and Sony making notable announcements and product launches [1] - Sony is set to release the next-generation PS6 and a new handheld console, the PS handheld, with expected launch dates between late 2027 and mid-2028 [1][3] Group 1: Sony's New Handheld Console - The PS handheld is designed to be a high-performance gaming device, featuring an AMD APU with 16 RDNA 5 GPU cores and 4 Zen 6 CPU cores, built on TSMC's 3nm process [3][5] - The handheld is expected to support up to 48GB of RAM, with a minimum of 24GB recommended for optimal performance, particularly for modern game engines [5][9] - Pricing for the PS handheld is projected to be between $399 and $499, making it competitively priced against the Switch 2 and ROG Xbox Ally [11][9] Group 2: Performance and Features - In docked mode, the PS handheld's rasterization performance is estimated to be 50-75% of the PS5, while its ray tracing performance could be 1.3-2.6 times better than the PS5 [9][11] - The handheld will feature a 1080P display with a refresh rate of 60Hz or 120Hz, and will include a "docked mode" to enhance performance further [7][9] - The PS handheld aims to provide backward compatibility with PS5 and PS4 games, although it may struggle with larger PS6 titles without streaming services or optimized versions [9][25] Group 3: Competitive Landscape - The PS handheld will compete with other devices like Valve's Steam Deck 2 and Microsoft's Xbox PC handheld, both expected to launch around the same time [15][28] - Sony's strategy focuses on attracting existing PS4 users to upgrade to the new handheld, which is better suited for playing PS4 games [25][23] - The gaming market is becoming increasingly fragmented, with mobile gaming and short-form content posing significant competition to traditional console gaming [19][21]

Group 1 - The gaming industry is experiencing significant developments with major players like Nintendo, Microsoft, and Sony making notable moves in 2023 [1][2] - Sony has officially announced the development of its next-generation console, the PS6, with a release window between late 2027 and mid-2028 [2][3] - The PS6 is expected to feature advanced hardware, including an AMD "Navi 5" Chiplet APU, with performance enhancements over the PS5 [21][22] Group 2 - Sony is also developing a new handheld console, referred to as the "next-gen PSP," which aims to outperform the Nintendo Switch 2 and the ROG Xbox Ally [3][7] - The new handheld will utilize a high-performance AMD APU with a 3nm process, featuring 16 RDNA 5 GPU cores and 4 Zen 6 CPU cores [4][5] - The PS handheld is projected to support at least 24GB of RAM, with a potential for 32GB, to handle modern gaming demands [6][7] Group 3 - The handheld console will have a 1080P display with a refresh rate of either 60Hz or 120Hz, and it will include a "dock mode" to enhance performance [8][9] - In dock mode, the handheld's rasterization performance is estimated to be 50% to 75% of the PS5, while its ray tracing performance could exceed that of the PS5 [11][12] - The pricing for the PS handheld is expected to be between $399 and $499, making it competitive against the Switch 2 and ROG Xbox Ally [18][19] Group 4 - The PS handheld aims to attract developers by providing a new platform for game adaptation and optimization, potentially increasing revenue opportunities [17] - Sony's strategy includes appealing to existing PS4 users to upgrade to the new handheld, which will primarily support PS4 games [39][40] - The competitive landscape includes not only Nintendo and Microsoft but also Valve's upcoming Steam Deck 2, which is expected to launch around the same time [25][42]

Core Viewpoint - The ROG Xbox Ally, set to release on October 16, is positioned as a significant competitor in the handheld gaming market, particularly against the Nintendo Switch 2 and Steam Deck, due to its optimized Windows system for gaming [1][21]. Group 1: Product Overview - The ROG Xbox Ally features high-end specifications, including AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, 16GB RAM, and 512GB ROM, while the ROG Xbox Ally X boasts an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB RAM, and 1TB ROM [26]. - Pricing rumors suggest the mid-range ROG Xbox Ally will be priced at approximately €599 (around ¥4986.68) and the high-end ROG Xbox Ally X at €899 (around ¥7486.73) [1]. Group 2: System and Interface - The device runs a customized version of Windows optimized for handheld use, allowing users to bypass the traditional Windows interface and directly access a new Xbox interface [2][4]. - This new interface conserves system resources by not loading unnecessary Windows components, saving about 2GB of RAM for gaming [4]. Group 3: Compatibility and Features - The Xbox interface integrates features for managing Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections and allows compatibility with other gaming platforms like Steam, enabling users to access their Steam library without switching to the Windows interface [5]. - A new "handheld compatibility program" has been announced, which tests and certifies thousands of games for compatibility with the handheld device [5][7]. Group 4: Performance Insights - Early tests show that the ROG Xbox Ally X can run games like "Doom Eternal" at an average frame rate of 83 FPS at 1080P with medium settings, while "Gears of War: Ultimate Edition" maintains a stable 60 FPS [14][15]. - The lower-spec ROG Xbox Ally is better suited for indie games, achieving 40-45 FPS on "Forza Horizon 5" at low settings [18]. Group 5: Market Position and Future Considerations - The ROG Xbox Ally is seen as a strong contender in the handheld market, leveraging Microsoft's optimization of Windows to potentially surpass SteamOS in performance [21][23]. - The success of the ROG Xbox Ally will depend on maintaining a high-quality user experience across future devices, as the brand expands [24].

Group 1 - The ROG Xbox Ally, set to launch on October 16, is considered the second most important handheld gaming device of the year, following the Nintendo Switch 2 [1] - This device features a high-end PC handheld configuration, but its significance lies in the optimized Xbox version of Windows it runs [2][3] - The pricing for the ROG Xbox Ally has not been officially announced, but leaks suggest a mid-range price of €599 (approximately ¥4986.68) and a high-end version at €899 (approximately ¥7486.73) [4][5] Group 2 - Upon startup, the ROG Xbox Ally presents a Windows login interface, but quickly transitions to a new Xbox interface designed for controller interaction, effectively hiding the traditional Windows desktop [6][8] - This new interface addresses long-standing issues with Windows handhelds, such as high resource consumption and low performance, by saving approximately 2GB of RAM for gaming [11][12] - The Xbox interface includes features to connect to Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, manage devices, and integrate with other gaming platforms like Steam, enhancing user experience [13][14][15] Group 3 - Microsoft has introduced a "handheld compatibility program" to test and optimize thousands of games for the ROG Xbox Ally, allowing users to easily check game compatibility [17] - A new feature has been developed to cache shader compilation, reducing load times when starting games [19] - Initial reviews highlight the device's performance, with the ROG Xbox Ally X achieving stable frame rates in various games, indicating strong gaming capabilities [30][32] Group 4 - The ROG Xbox Ally aims to compete with the Steam Deck in the handheld gaming market, leveraging Microsoft's optimized Windows to potentially surpass SteamOS [33][36] - The device's design draws inspiration from Xbox controllers, enhancing comfort during gameplay [26] - The overall reception of the new Xbox interface and lightweight Windows has been positive, suggesting a solid step towards integrating Xbox and Windows for handheld gaming [40]

Core Points - ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) announced the launch of ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X handheld gaming devices, set to be available on October 16, 2025 [3][4] - The devices will be showcased for the first time at Gamescom 2025, with a full lineup of 2025 laptops also on display [3][6] - ROG has partnered with Xbox to optimize thousands of PC titles for handheld compatibility, ensuring a smooth gaming experience at launch [9][10] Product Availability - ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X will be available in multiple countries including Canada, Australia, Germany, Japan, the United States, and more starting October 16, 2025 [4][5] - The Xbox Ally will launch in China early next year, with additional markets to follow [5] Technical Specifications - ROG Xbox Ally features an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, 16GB of LPDDR5X-6400 RAM, and a 512GB M.2 SSD, supported by a 60Wh battery [7][18] - ROG Xbox Ally X is equipped with an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB of LPDDR5X-8000 memory, a 1TB M.2 SSD, and an 80Wh battery for extended playtime [8][16] Gaming Experience Enhancements - The Xbox team has developed a Handheld Compatibility Program to ensure that games are optimized for handheld play, with badges indicating compatibility levels [9][10] - Advanced shader delivery technology will allow games to launch up to 10 times faster and run more smoothly on the ROG Xbox Ally [11] Meet-and-Greet Event - Actors Ned Luke and Shawn Fonteno will be present at the ROG booth during Gamescom 2025 for fan interactions [3][13]

Group 1 - AMD has confirmed its long-standing partnership with Microsoft, focusing on the development of custom chips for the next-generation Xbox platform [1] - The custom chip will not only support the next-generation Xbox console but will also extend to PC and handheld devices, indicating Microsoft's strategy to create a unified chip solution across multiple platforms [1] - This approach aims to enhance interoperability and provide a consistent user experience across different devices within the Xbox ecosystem [1] Group 2 - AMD possesses extensive experience and technical expertise in the custom chip sector, currently developing custom SoCs for both Sony's next-generation PlayStation and Microsoft's next-generation Xbox [3] - AMD's FSR 4 technology is a collaborative result with Sony, showcasing a deep partnership in technological innovation [3] - The Z2 series SoC from AMD has been successfully integrated into the ROG Xbox Ally product developed in collaboration with Microsoft and ASUS, further solidifying their partnership [3]

Core Insights - The Roundhill Video Games ETF NERD is experiencing significant growth in 2025, primarily driven by the successful launch of Nintendo's Switch 2 console [1][2]. Nintendo - The Switch 2 launched at a price of $449, which is $150 higher than the original model, yet it achieved remarkable sales, with 3.5 million units sold in the first four days, marking the fastest start for any console in Nintendo's history [2][3]. - Nintendo's management is projecting to ship 15 million consoles in the current fiscal year, which is expected to increase revenue by over 60% and operating profit by around 13% [3]. - Nintendo is the largest holding in the Roundhill Video Games ETF, comprising 12.1% of its assets, with a focus on monetizing intellectual property beyond traditional game sales [4]. Electronic Arts (EA) - EA's sports titles, particularly Madden and College Football, are significant revenue drivers, with expectations of a college basketball franchise potentially generating $300 million in bookings [7][8]. - The return of a college basketball game could conservatively sell four million titles, enhancing gamer engagement during off-seasons [8]. GameStop - GameStop is excluded from the Roundhill Video Games ETF due to its focus on tracking the Nasdaq CTA Global Video Games Software Index, which does not include physical retailers [9]. - GameStop's financial performance, characterized by double-digit revenue declines and volatility disconnected from fundamentals, further disqualifies it from ETF inclusion [10]. ETF Performance - The Roundhill Video Games ETF closed at $25.94, reflecting a year-to-date increase of 31.3% in 2025 and a 57.7% rise over the past year [10].

Core Viewpoint - The gaming market is experiencing significant developments with new hardware releases and a shift in strategy from traditional console sales to a service-oriented model, particularly by Microsoft [1][2][4][13]. Group 1: Market Developments - The release of Switch 2 has sparked discussions, while Sony has announced new games and confirmed the development of PS6 [1]. - Microsoft has introduced new hardware, including ROG Xbox Ally and Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition, marking its entry into handheld gaming and VR [2]. - Microsoft is also developing a next-generation Xbox console in collaboration with AMD, which will not be exclusively tied to the Xbox game store [4]. Group 2: Xbox's Strategic Shift - The upcoming next-generation Xbox console may be Microsoft's last traditional console product, indicating a potential shift away from hardware-centric gaming [5]. - Xbox will continue to exist but will operate more as a brand and service rather than being deeply integrated with Microsoft [6]. - The strategy mirrors the Windows model, where Microsoft provides software and game libraries while OEMs design the hardware [7]. Group 3: Xbox's Performance and Challenges - 2024 is projected to be a challenging year for Xbox, with console sales expected to be below 3 million units, leading to significant layoffs and studio closures [9]. - In contrast, competitors like Nintendo and Sony have seen success with their consoles, while Xbox Series X/S has underperformed [10]. Group 4: Gaming Consumption Trends - The rise of smartphones as versatile entertainment devices poses a challenge for traditional gaming consoles, making it difficult to convince consumers to invest in dedicated gaming hardware [11][12]. - Microsoft's approach focuses on selling game services rather than hardware, promoting a "play anywhere" philosophy [13][15]. Group 5: Game Pass and Future Directions - Xbox Game Pass is a key component of Microsoft's strategy, aiming to make gaming accessible across various devices, not limited to Xbox hardware [24]. - The ultimate goal is to have Xbox Game Pass available on all platforms, similar to how Apple Music operates across different systems [25]. - Microsoft's strategy includes partnerships and collaborations rather than solely relying on its own hardware development [26]. Group 6: Brand Identity and Future Considerations - The evolving concept of "Xbox" raises questions about its identity as it encompasses various devices and services, which may confuse consumers [30][31]. - There is a concern about the future of the Xbox brand, as it may become merely a game launcher or a collection of game studios rather than a distinct gaming platform [32]. - The company must consider profitability and sustainable business models moving forward [33].

Core Insights - Microsoft's gaming business is experiencing significant growth, with gaming revenues increasing by 5% year over year in Q3 FY25, contributing 8.2% to total revenues [2][10] - Xbox content and services revenues rose by 8%, indicating strong performance in this segment [10] - The company is expanding its gaming ecosystem through AI integration, new hardware, and cloud gaming initiatives [3][5] Gaming Revenue Growth - PC Game Pass revenues surged over 45% compared to the previous year, showcasing strong demand for subscription services [3] - Cloud gaming reached a record of over 150 million hours played in the quarter, reflecting growing user engagement [3][10] New Hardware and AI Integration - Microsoft is set to launch two Xbox handheld devices in collaboration with Asus, targeting different gamer segments [4] - The introduction of AI features like Copilot for Gaming and the Muse model aims to enhance player experience and engagement [3][5] Competitive Landscape - Microsoft faces stiff competition from Sony and Nintendo, which continue to lead in exclusive titles and user engagement [6][7] - The competitive pressure necessitates ongoing innovation in cloud gaming, Game Pass, and hardware offerings [7] Stock Performance and Valuation - MSFT shares have increased by 11.7% year-to-date, outperforming the broader software industry [8] - The forward 12-month Price/Sales ratio for MSFT is 11.24X, higher than the industry average of 9.30X, indicating a premium valuation [12]