For a long time, Xbox users have wondered if Microsoft would ever enter the handheld gaming market, and now it’s finally happened — sort of. The Logitech G Cloud handheld isn’t a new console, but it’s a way to play the Xbox Game Pass library on the go.
Aesthetically, the Cloud handheld conforms to the Nintendo Switch or the Valve Steam Deck, with a 12-inch 1080p touch screen sandwiched between two parts of what might otherwise be an Xbox controller. “The handheld is a natural next step in our cloud gaming evolution,” says Xbox In its announcement. “It’s great to see a world-class hardware leader like Logitech optimizing Xbox cloud gaming for their new devices.” The Cloud handheld has a battery life of 12+ hours and built-in Wi-Fi, both important for extended gaming sessions.
As for what games you can play on the cloud handheld, the answer is in the name: an Xbox that can pull from the cloud can be played on a portable device. This should tie in perfectly with Game Pass, which offers all first-party Xbox games and select third-party titles like Deathloop’s Xbox port to subscribers on Day One. The recently unveiled Xbox Game Pass Friends and Family plan could also work quite nicely here, allowing people to play on a console, PC and handheld in the same family.
All of this information raises two questions: When is the Logitech G Cloud handheld releasing and how much will it cost? The Cloud handheld will be available from October 17 and pre-orders are available now In the Microsoft Store. While the final retail price will total $349.99 USD, you can currently pre-purchase one for $50 off, bringing the cost down to $299.99.
It’s worth mentioning that the Logitech G Cloud handheld isn’t just limited to Xbox games; It supports Nvidia GeForce Now. This isn’t the only handheld device Logitech is working on. It announced a partnership with Tencent earlier this year, which will bring another gaming device.
