The Switch 2 Faces Stiff Competition from Emerging PC Handhelds

The first Nintendo Switch essentially dominated the market, proving that a hybrid console and handheld could be a winning combination, as evidenced by its massive success. However, with the next iteration of the Switch soon to be unveiled, it's entering a marketplace increasingly filled with competitive handheld gaming PCs, following significant announcements from CES 2025.

Valve's Steam Deck significantly advanced the handheld gaming PC trend by operating on the Linux-based SteamOS, streamlining the gaming experience akin to that on traditional consoles. A noteworthy announcement from CES 2025 is Valve's plan to allow SteamOS installation on other handhelds, starting April. This move could dramatically boost the appeal of the handheld PC gaming market.

The first official third-party device to feature SteamOS will be Lenovo's $499 Legion Go S, set to release in May. This launch could pave the way for other manufacturers to unveil their SteamOS devices, expanding availability across various platforms. The increased competition could also drive Valve to enhance the future Steam Deck.

The Lenovo Legion Go S next to a Steam Deck OLED. Photo by Antonio G. Di Benedetto

Other notable CES 2025 introductions include Acer's Nitro Blaze 11, featuring a large 10.95-inch screen, detachable controllers, and a kickstand. Intel and Tencent are collaborating on a device with an 11-inch display incorporating stereo 3D. The MSI Claw 8 AI Plus was finally displayed, while Razer introduced a docking station compatible with handheld gaming PCs. Microsoft's panel promised updates to enhance Windows-based handheld systems later this year.

Despite the burgeoning PC gaming landscape, Nintendo remains a formidable presence. The new Switch successor is expected to offer significant improvements, arriving nearly eight years after the original. It is anticipated to host new titles in renowned franchises like Super Mario and The Legend of Zelda, alongside providing enhancements for titles such as Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A.

Furthermore, Nintendo's upcoming console will support backward compatibility with original Switch games, offering access to an extensive game library right from launch. This is a strategic advantage, as it includes many indie titles that are also popular on handheld PCs.

Back in 2017, nothing matched the original Switch's format. The upcoming console will now compete in a more crowded and advanced field. The increase in competition after CES 2025 suggests potential improvements in both hardware and games across the board. It's an exciting period for fans of handheld gaming.