In a bold move that could reshape the landscape of portable gaming, Lenovo has announced the Legion Go S, a groundbreaking device that marks a significant departure from traditional Windows-powered gaming handhelds. This innovative product is set to be the first non-Valve handheld gaming device officially “Powered by SteamOS,” heralding a new era in gaming technology.
The Rise of SteamOS in Portable Gaming
Almost exactly a year ago, the gaming community was abuzz with anticipation for a shift from Windows to SteamOS in portable gaming devices. Lenovo has now made this a reality with the Legion Go S, which comes pre-installed with an officially licensed copy of SteamOS. This strategic move by Lenovo, in collaboration with Valve, promises to bring more flexibility and lower costs to gamers.
Affordable Gaming On the Go
One of the most striking features of the Legion Go S is its affordability. The SteamOS version of the device starts at just $500, a significant reduction from the $730 starting price of its Windows counterpart. This price difference is largely due to the omission of the Windows license fee, showcasing Lenovo’s commitment to providing cost-effective gaming solutions without compromising on performance.
Design and Specifications
Despite its lower price point, the Legion Go S does not skimp on specifications. Weighing in at just 1.61 lbs, it features an 8-inch 1200p 120 Hz LCD screen, up to 32GB of RAM, and is powered by AMD’s latest Ryzen Z2 Go chipset. The device offers a robust gaming experience in a compact and portable format, ideal for gamers on the move.
What Does This Mean for Windows in Gaming?
Valve’s initiative to expand SteamOS beyond the Steam Deck into other devices like the Legion Go S could signal a shift in the gaming industry. According to Valve, the inclusion of SteamOS on the Legion Go S is just the beginning, with plans to enhance compatibility across a wider range of handhelds and further support for more devices in the future.
The introduction of SteamOS into mainstream gaming hardware not only diversifies the operating system landscape but also enhances user choice. It allows gamers to enjoy a tailored, gaming-centric environment that is optimized for performance and tailored to their preferences.
Future Prospects
As more gamers and manufacturers embrace SteamOS, we may witness a significant transformation in how portable gaming devices are designed and what operating systems they run. The Legion Go S is just the start, and its success could inspire other manufacturers to adopt SteamOS, potentially diminishing Windows’ dominance in the gaming sector.
