Switch 2 Confronts New Challenge: Handheld Gaming PCs

The buzz around the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 has been palpable, yet its hefty price tag of $449.99 and $79.99 per game gives me pause. My experience with the original Nintendo Switch has been underwhelming since I got my hands on the Asus ROG Ally, and the issues I faced with the first console seem magnified in its sequel, particularly in today's landscape dominated by handheld gaming PCs.

Asus ROG Ally Is All I Need

As a lifelong handheld gaming enthusiast, I've journeyed from the Game Boy through the Nintendo DS to the PlayStation Portable. There's an undeniable charm in playing games from the cozy confines of my bed, and I was one of the few who remained loyal to the PlayStation Vita, using it daily during my college commutes.

The Nintendo Switch was a revelation when it launched in 2017. I purchased one near its release, but my use was limited to exclusives. I reserved certain games for handheld play, believing they belonged exclusively in that format. Yet, the dilemma arose when these titles were available for free on platforms like Epic Games Store, Game Pass, PlayStation Plus, or Humble Choice. The reluctance to repurchase games I already owned, compounded by the rarity of significant discounts on Switch games, often left me not playing them at all.

The arrival of the Asus ROG Ally in 2023 shattered this cycle. This Windows 11-powered handheld gaming PC granted me access to Steam, Game Pass, Epic Games, and more, allowing me to enjoy games I previously avoided due to discomfort on a traditional PC setup, all from the comfort of my bed.

Now, I delve into a plethora of indie games on my Ally, steadily tackling my backlog. Without the Ally, I might never have experienced gems like Celeste, Little Nightmares II, or the Resident Evil Remake—games that have since become some of my all-time favorites, without the need for additional purchases. The Ally has not only become my preferred handheld device but has also saved me considerable money.

Despite my enthusiasm for Nintendo's offerings, the Switch 2 Direct left me questioning the console's place in my gaming life.

When the original Switch debuted, it was more than just a platform for exclusives. Its innovative design and affordability set it apart, making it an attractive entry into a unique gaming ecosystem. At the time, it was the only viable handheld option, offering a blend of affordability, great exclusives, and unparalleled portability.

The Switch 2 Isn’t Alone Anymore

With a starting price of $449, the Nintendo Switch 2 enters a crowded market, closely competing with the $499 PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. Notably, the PS5's digital edition launched at a lower $399. Over the past eight years, the Switch's design has spurred a wave of competitors. The Steam Deck kicked things off in 2022, followed by a range of handheld gaming PCs like the Asus ROG Ally, Lenovo Legion Go, and MSI Claw. Rumors even suggest Xbox might be developing its own handheld. The Switch 2's uniqueness is diluted, making it a less compelling choice for those already invested in other handhelds.

Handheld gaming PCs boast robust hardware, easily handling indie and third-party games. Their expansive libraries and access to existing game collections make them a versatile gaming hub. With advancements like the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme on the horizon, the Switch 2 could soon be outclassed by its rivals.

For owners of handheld gaming PCs, the Switch 2's steep entry cost and limited use—primarily for first-party titles—pose a significant barrier. With titles like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza priced at $79.99 and $69.99, respectively, and knowing that Nintendo's first-party games rarely see substantial discounts, the value proposition becomes even more challenging.

Admittedly, Nintendo's exclusive titles offer immense value and are among the industry's finest. For many, the Switch 2's lineup over the next few years will justify its cost. However, for those like me with a capable handheld gaming PC, the Switch 2's appeal is diminished.

The Nintendo Switch 2 might not be the best investment for everyone, especially if you're already equipped with a handheld gaming PC. Devices like the Legion Go provide stellar performance and access to a vast array of indie and third-party games. My Asus ROG Ally covers all the bases I once turned to the Switch for, and with access to multiple storefronts, it remains the superior choice for gaming on the go.