ASUS Xbox Ally, AYN Thor, & New Gaming Hardware Highlights | Gamescom 2025
Product Launches & Updates
ASUS ROG Unveils Xbox-Themed Handhelds
ASUS has just dropped the ROG Xbox Ally X and ROG Xbox Ally, two powerful handhelds co-designed with Microsoft. With an Xbox-optimized interface, these devices are ready to take on the competition, including the Steam Deck.
-
Xbox Ally X: Powered by the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB storage, and a 7-inch 120Hz IPS display, it's built for serious gamers.
-
Xbox Ally: A slightly toned-down version with the AMD Ryzen Z2 A chip, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage.
Both handhelds offer a seamless Xbox experience, making them prime contenders in the Windows handheld market.
AYN Thor: A Retro Dual-Screen Handheld
Fans of retro gaming have something to look forward to with the AYN Thor, a dual-screen handheld inspired by the Nintendo DS. Featuring a throwback Game Boy Color-style purple model, this device is priced from $250 and ships in October. It’s aimed squarely at nostalgia-driven gamers looking to relive the golden age of handheld gaming.
Gamescom 2025 Hardware Highlights
Gamescom 2025 was a hub for some next-gen gaming hardware, especially in the handheld, PC, and monitor spaces. Here are the standout products:
-
ASUS ROG: The Xbox Ally series handhelds stole the spotlight with their high-performance specs and ecosystem integration alongside Microsoft.
-
ZOTAC ZONE: This new handheld PC packs an AMD Ryzen 7 8840U, Radeon 780M, and a 7-inch FHD AMOLED display, pushing the envelope on portable power.
-
Framework: Showcased its modular laptops designed for easy upgrades and repairs, offering flexibility for gamers and creators alike.
-
ASUS ROG Matrix RTX 5090 (30th Anniversary Edition): A true powerhouse with a four-fan design and 800W of power, designed for peak gaming performance.
-
Multiple Brands: Unveiled next-gen OLED gaming monitors, including models with up to 720Hz refresh rates, setting the stage for ultra-smooth gaming visuals.
Ecosystem & Service Updates
Xbox Handheld Compatibility Program
Microsoft is expanding its Xbox ecosystem with the launch of a new OS-level optimization program for third-party handhelds like the ROG Ally. This move solidifies Microsoft’s push toward an official Xbox handheld ecosystem, giving users a more integrated experience across devices.
Overwatch 2 Adds Native Keyboard/Mouse Support
Overwatch 2 has introduced keyboard and mouse support for console players, but with a twist—console players using this setup will face PC players in matchmaking to keep things balanced. This bold move has sparked strong community discussions, with fans weighing in on the implications for cross-platform gameplay.
Game Releases & Industry Moves
Hollow Knight: Silksong
After what feels like forever, Hollow Knight: Silksong is finally releasing on September 4, 2025. Fans have been waiting anxiously for this, and the excitement is palpable—this long-delayed title is about to make a huge splash in the indie gaming scene.
BioShock Studio Layoffs
Cloud Chamber, the studio behind the upcoming BioShock game, has faced significant layoffs during development, raising concerns about the timeline and future of the project. The news has left many BioShock fans uncertain about the direction of the next installment.
Trends & Takeaways
-
Handheld Gaming Market on Fire: The battle for portable gaming supremacy is intensifying, with companies like ASUS and ZOTAC pushing the boundaries of performance, while AYN Thor taps into the growing market of nostalgia-driven players.
-
Microsoft’s Handheld Ecosystem Push: Through hardware collaborations and software initiatives, Microsoft is working hard to create a seamless, integrated Xbox ecosystem for portable gamers.
-
Gamescom 2025 as a Hardware Showpiece: From handhelds to graphics cards and monitors, Gamescom once again confirmed its role as the ultimate stage for cutting-edge gaming hardware.
-
Cross-Platform Experiences: Whether it's Overwatch 2’s keyboard/mouse support or Xbox's compatibility efforts, the industry is moving toward more unified experiences, breaking down barriers between platforms and connecting gamers in new ways.
Stay tuned for more industry insights and in-depth reviews on Heyup—we’ve got you covered on all things tech and gaming!
