Excitement builds as Lenovo, Valve, and AMD gear up for CES 2025. Scheduled for January 7th, 2025, Lenovo’s event, titled “Lenovo Legion x AMD: The Future of Gaming Handhelds,” promises groundbreaking announcements in the handheld gaming space, Lenovo Legion Go S. Adding to the buzz, Pierre-Loup Griffais, co-designer of Valve’s SteamOS and Steam Deck, will join forces with Jason Ronald, Microsoft’s VP of Xbox Gaming Devices and Ecosystem, to discuss the next era of portable gaming.
Lenovo Legion Go S: SteamOS Integration
Lenovo is expected to debut its first SteamOS-powered handheld device, the Legion Go S. Leaked images reveal the inclusion of a Steam button, signalling robust integration with Valve’s platform. This development reflects Valve’s broader strategy to expand SteamOS into third-party devices, moving beyond the Steam Deck to offer gamers more variety in the handheld market.
Additionally, Lenovo will showcase a larger, Windows-based Legion Go with detachable controllers. Both devices are rumoured to feature AMD’s next-gen Z2 Extreme chips, promising higher performance and smoother gameplay for handheld enthusiasts.
SteamOS 3: Valve's Ecosystem Expands
The introduction of SteamOS 3 at CES 2025 could mark a turning point for gaming handhelds. Valve’s focus on third-party adoption is evident with the integration of SteamOS into the Lenovo Legion Go S. With this move, Valve is positioning itself as a leader in portable gaming software, creating an ecosystem that competes directly with traditional gaming consoles.
SteamOS 3’s Proton compatibility enables seamless Windows game support on Linux-based systems, making it a versatile platform for gamers. By collaborating with hardware giants like Lenovo, Valve ensures its ecosystem remains accessible to a wider audience.
The SteamOS Expansion Strategy With Lenovo Legion Go S
Valve’s integration of SteamOS 3 into devices like Lenovo’s Legion Go S highlights its commitment to creating a universal gaming platform. By making SteamOS available to third-party manufacturers, Valve aims to solidify Steam as the go-to platform for gaming across devices. This strategy has several layers:
- Platform Ubiquity: Ensuring SteamOS runs seamlessly on different hardware will attract more OEMs, increasing Steam’s reach.
- Proton Compatibility: The ability to run Windows games on Linux-based SteamOS breaks down barriers, offering gamers unparalleled flexibility.
- Developer Support: Encouraging game developers to optimize for SteamOS ensures better performance and user experiences on the platform.
Valve’s goal is clear: to become the backbone of gaming, irrespective of whether players are on a Steam Deck, a Legion Go S, or another device.
Learn more about how Valve is planning to change the gaming space for the better.
AMD Z2 Extreme Chips: How Will Be Lenovo Legion Go S Performance
Both the Lenovo Legion Go S and its larger counterpart will reportedly feature AMD’s highly anticipated Z2 Extreme chips. These processors are designed to provide unparalleled gaming performance on handheld devices, enabling smoother gameplay and better battery efficiency. AMD’s involvement underscores its commitment to pushing the boundaries of portable gaming hardware.
Microsoft and the Handheld Gaming Conversation
While Microsoft isn’t expected to unveil an Xbox handheld, its participation in the event is noteworthy. Discussions may explore how handheld devices can serve as platforms for Xbox gaming, aligning with industry trends favouring portable solutions.
Project Rainway, Microsoft’s rumoured cross-platform API initiative, could play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between Xbox and other ecosystems, including SteamOS. With features like cloud saves and a unified Xbox guide menu, this initiative could redefine how gamers experience cross-platform gaming.
Why CES 2025 Is a Milestone for Gaming Handhelds
The collaboration between Lenovo, Valve, and AMD signals a significant evolution in handheld gaming. Lenovo’s hardware expertise, combined with Valve’s software capabilities and AMD’s advanced processors, paves the way for a new generation of gaming devices.
This integration reflects a growing trend in the industry: handheld gaming is no longer confined to a niche market. With innovations like the Legion Go S and SteamOS 3, gamers now have more options than ever to enjoy AAA titles on the go.
