The handheld gaming PC market is about to get a significant injection of competition with Lenovo poised to launch not one, but two new entries in its Legion Go line. The first, tentatively dubbed the Legion Go S, is generating considerable buzz as potentially the first third-party handheld to run SteamOS, directly challenging Valve’s own Steam Deck. This move could signal a major shift in the portable gaming landscape, opening up the possibility of a wider array of SteamOS-powered devices and potentially fostering a more robust ecosystem around the operating system. While details remain scarce, leaked images suggest the Legion Go S will feature a dedicated Steam button, hinting at a deep integration with Valve’s platform and potentially offering a seamless experience for Steam library users. This development could be a game-changer, offering gamers an alternative to the Steam Deck and potentially spurring innovation and price competition in the burgeoning handheld market.
Alongside the potentially groundbreaking Legion Go S, Lenovo is also preparing a larger, more traditional Legion Go device that builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor. This new iteration retains the distinctive detachable Joy-Con-style controllers and integrated kickstand, features that set the original Legion Go apart from the competition. These controllers, while offering unique functionality like an “FPS mode” that transforms one controller into a vertical mouse using a disc-shaped skate, were met with mixed reviews due to their sharp edges and abundance of buttons. However, leaked images suggest that Lenovo has addressed these concerns, showcasing controllers with a more ergonomic design and revised button layouts. Furthermore, a protective cover for the controller mounting rail appears to have been added, addressing the issue of exposed charging pins that could be uncomfortable for users. These refinements demonstrate Lenovo’s commitment to iterative design and its responsiveness to user feedback.
Perhaps the most significant upgrade in the new Legion Go is the potential inclusion of an OLED display option alongside the standard 8.8-inch IPS LCD. While the screen size remains consistent, the move to OLED technology promises a significant boost in visual quality, offering richer colors, deeper blacks, and potentially faster response times. This enhancement would elevate the gaming experience, making visuals more immersive and vibrant. However, crucial details like battery life and port selection remain shrouded in mystery, and these factors will ultimately play a significant role in the device’s overall appeal. While the inclusion of a powerful AMD Z2 Extreme chip is speculated, official confirmation is still pending. These specifications will be critical in determining the device’s performance capabilities and its ability to handle demanding games.
The potential divergence in operating systems between the two Legion Go models presents an intriguing dynamic. While the Legion Go S appears to be embracing SteamOS, the larger Legion Go is notably absent a Steam button in the leaked images, suggesting a continued reliance on Windows. This strategic choice could allow Lenovo to cater to a broader audience, offering a SteamOS experience for those seeking tighter integration with their Steam libraries and a more traditional Windows environment for users prioritizing flexibility and compatibility with a wider range of software. This dual approach could prove effective in capturing a larger share of the handheld gaming market.
The Legion Go S’s potential status as a “Powered by SteamOS” device has significant implications. This designation, according to Valve’s guidelines, signifies close collaboration between the hardware manufacturer and Valve, ensuring a level of optimization and integration that goes beyond simply running the operating system. This partnership could result in a more seamless and refined SteamOS experience on the Legion Go S, potentially offering advantages over other third-party attempts to implement the platform. Confirmation from both Lenovo and Valve regarding this collaboration is highly anticipated and would solidify the Legion Go S’s position as a major player in the SteamOS ecosystem.
The introduction of these two new Legion Go devices marks a significant step for Lenovo in the handheld gaming market. The Legion Go, with its refined design and potential OLED display, aims to build upon the foundation of its predecessor, offering a more polished and premium gaming experience. The Legion Go S, on the other hand, represents a bolder move, potentially ushering in a new era of third-party SteamOS devices and challenging the dominance of the Steam Deck. The success of these devices will hinge on factors like performance, battery life, pricing, and the overall user experience. The gaming community eagerly awaits further details and official announcements from Lenovo, which will undoubtedly shape the future of the handheld gaming landscape.
