Lenovo Legion Go: A Windows Handheld Gaming Experience

Lenovo’s Answer to Handheld Gaming Revolution

In the ever-evolving landscape of handheld gaming consoles, the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck have set the stage for innovation. Now, Lenovo, primarily recognized for its laptops, enters the arena with a Windows-powered handheld gaming console: the Lenovo Legion Go. In this article, we provide a hands-on insight into this ambitious device, aiming to ascertain its potential in a competitive market.

Design Innovation: A Marvelous Screen

Lenovo has opted for Windows 11 as the operating system for the Legion Go. This handheld powerhouse boasts an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, a substantial 16GB of DDR5 memory, and storage capacities of up to 1TB. However, the standout feature is its screen. The Legion Go features an impressive 8.8-inch display with a stunning 1600p resolution (2560×1600 pixels) and a rapid 144Hz refresh rate.

The 16:10 aspect ratio sets it apart from its competitors, making it the largest screen ever seen on a handheld gaming console. Its refresh rate outpaces even the Asus ROG Ally’s 1080p display, offering vibrant visuals despite the absence of OLED technology.

Portability and Connectivity

While the generous screen size results in a slightly bulkier design, the Legion Go remains more portable than the smallest gaming laptops. Battery life details are yet to be unveiled, but the device supports “Super Rapid Charge,” promising a 70% charge in just 30 minutes. Connectivity options are abundant, featuring USB Type-C ports (supporting USB4), a microSD slot with up to 2TB expandable storage, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.2.

Innovative Controller Design

The Legion Go distinguishes itself with its Nintendo Joy-Con-inspired controllers. These detachable controllers connect to the main body via Bluetooth when separated, resembling the Nintendo Switch’s functionality. Offering a high level of customization with ten mappable buttons, triggers, and grip buttons, they cater to gamers seeking a desktop PC gaming experience.

Lenovo has even engineered a unique first-person-shooter mode for one of the controllers, enhancing precision in shooter games. However, some users may face a learning curve when it comes to detaching and re-attaching the controllers, as it requires precise finger positioning.

Legion Space: A Gamer-Friendly Interface

Lenovo introduces an interface overlay called Legion Space, designed exclusively for the Legion Go. This controller-friendly UI streamlines access to various game platforms, stores, and locally installed games. Additionally, it facilitates game purchases through the Legion Game Store in collaboration with Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, offering three months of Xbox Game Pass with the device.

Performance and Expectations

Although detailed benchmark numbers are pending, our initial hands-on experience with the Legion Go showcased smooth performance without noticeable frame-rate drops. Popular Xbox Game Pass games, including Forza Horizon 5, Halo: Master Chief Collection, and PowerWash Simulator, ran seamlessly with vibrant visuals.

What Lies Ahead

While our first encounter with the Lenovo Legion Go left a positive impression, several questions linger. Concerns include battery life, game optimization for the device’s higher refresh rate and resolution, and the utilization of AMD’s FSR 3 technology. Lenovo plans to release the Legion Go in October, starting at $699 for the Z1 Extreme variant with 512GB of storage. Stay tuned to PCMag for a comprehensive review and detailed benchmarks as we delve deeper into this exciting handheld gaming console later this year.