Ok FINE - $299 for an 'open box' or $399 for NIB. I was already convinced I wanted one before I got to my local BB.
Selling points: 1080P screen and 512GB storage. Negative points: weaker CPU/GPU and stuck with Windows installed.
After getting through the usual MS setup crap on power on I installed Steam and then installed 3 not-so-new or demanding games from my library, set it to 'offline mode' and turned off the WiFi. :)
$300-400 is IMHO the 'sweet spot' for portable gaming systems.
IDK if I'll just ditch the Windows and install SteamOS or not. I'll see.
Also I bet this can be an AWESOME 'streaming client' from one of my 'real' gaming systems. :)
Given we can now get a 1/2 way decent WIN powered gaming handheld for this price, it will be really interesting what Nintendo comes up with as their "Switch2" has a BUNCH MORE competition in this space now.
Granted IDK how the Ally/Steam Deck might or can work in "docked" mode like the Switch does or if that is a big selling point for the Switch or not.
The ASUS ROG Ally with the Ryzen Z1 processor is now available at an all-time low price at Best Buy after a sizeable $100 off over the previous discounted rate. At the newly reduced price, the ASUS ROG Ally should be a no-brainer for fans of indie games as well as folks who are into emulating older systems.