MSI Gaming released a teaser video on its Instagram account, revealing a handheld device similar to the Steam Deck. The video showcases the front of the device, with offset sticks surrounded by RGB light, as well as the back, which features a red and black color scheme with the MSI logo. The video ends with a logo displaying multicolored claws and the text "#MSIxCES2024." The caption hints at a new MSI dragon and encourages viewers to stay tuned for more details, likely to be revealed during CES from Jan 9-12. Currently, the price and specs of the device are unknown.
Numerous Steam Deck competitors have entered the market, such as the ROG Ally, which launched in June 2023 for $700 and later introduced a more affordable $600 model. Featuring native Game Pass support and running on Windows, the Ally provides fierce competition. Another contender is the Lenovo Legion Go, which shares the same AMD chip set as the Ally and comes with a comparable price tag of $700. However, the Legion Go boasts a larger screen and detachable controllers similar to the Switch's Joy-Cons.
The Steam Deck received an OLED upgrade last year, and while the original models with LCD screens are still available, they are currently being offered at discounted prices.
Editor's P/S
As a hard fan of gaming, I am thrilled about MSI Gaming's upcoming Steam Deck rival. The teaser video has me eagerly anticipating the full reveal at CES 2024. The sleek design, with its offset sticks surrounded by RGB light and the red and black color scheme, exudes a sense of power and sophistication. The mysterious logo with multicolored claws hints at something truly special, and I can't wait to learn more about the specs and capabilities of this device.
The competition in the handheld gaming market is heating up, with strong contenders like the ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go already making waves. However, MSI Gaming has a reputation for excellence in the gaming industry, and I believe their upcoming device has the potential to shake things up even further. The prospect of native Game Pass support and the possibility of running Windows on the MSI device are particularly exciting, as they could open up a vast library of games and enhance the overall gaming experience.