Xbox Ally and Ally X review: this is not an Xbox
TL;DR
The Xbox Ally and Ally X handhelds fail to deliver a true Xbox console experience, as they run Windows 11 with a cumbersome setup and gameplay. The cheaper model is particularly disappointing in this regard.
What does "Xbox" mean? Some might say it can only refer to a box-shaped Microsoft game machine. Others will argue it's a collection of Xbox-native titles like Halo, Gears, Forza, and Fable. I think most would probably agree it's a game console experience, a way to kick back and easily play the latest games without thinking too much. Press the power button, play, press it again to pause.
The 7-inch Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X gaming handhelds, on sale tomorrow, don't meet that bar. The cheaper one doesn't even come close.
They run Windows 11, and they never let you forget it - not during their lengthy setup process, not when you're trying to …