Get ready for an incredible gaming journey with your new ROG Xbox Ally or ROG Xbox Ally X! The holidays are here, and you're about to embark on an exciting adventure with these powerful handheld devices. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a newcomer, the ROG Xbox Ally community welcomes you with open arms, offering a unique blend of Windows flexibility and Xbox simplicity right at your fingertips.
Unleash the Power of Personalization
While you might be eager to dive into your favorite games (we've got some great handheld recommendations here), the true magic of the Xbox Ally lies in its ability to tailor your gaming experience to your preferences. From setup to gameplay, we've got you covered with essential tips to maximize your fun.
Getting Started: A Smooth Journey
If you're just unboxing your device, the Xbox Support guide is your best friend. It provides a comprehensive, step-by-step process, ensuring a seamless setup. One pro tip: don't skip setting up the fingerprint reader. Unlocking your Xbox Ally with a simple touch is not only fast but also adds a touch of magic to your gaming sessions.
Navigating with Ease
Mastering the menus is key. The Xbox Ally offers multiple navigation options, from the d-pad and joysticks to the responsive touchscreen. For instance, accessing the Game Bar settings is as easy as pressing the Xbox button and the right bumper, or swiping from the left edge of the screen. Swapping between apps? Long-press the Xbox button or swipe up from the bottom for a seamless switch.
Command Center: Your Personalized Hub
ASUS Command Center is now integrated into Game Bar, providing instant access to a range of advanced features. You can further explore customization options by launching Armoury Crate SE, offering an expansive set of settings to personalize your experience, both in and out of games.
Gaming Copilot: Your Trusted Sidekick
Introducing Gaming Copilot, your personal gaming assistant. Access it on your Xbox Ally for recommendations, tips, and insights whenever you need them. Simply long-press the Command Center button to open the Gaming Copilot widget in Game Bar and complete the onboarding. Then, when you need a quick achievement check or some boss fight advice, long-press the Library button and start a conversation with your gaming companion.
Explore Your Gaming Library
It's time to discover your next gaming adventure! Head to the Library by pressing the dedicated button above the right thumbstick. Here, you'll find games you own, Game Pass titles, and Xbox Cloud Gaming options. Note that you can select multiple categories, allowing you to shop in your own collection for native Xbox Ally games. If you're seeking something new, the Store is just a click away on the left rail.
Access Games from Leading PC Storefronts
With the aggregated gaming library, you can easily add your PC storefront titles to your library, creating a centralized gaming hub. Simply head to the My Apps tab in your Library and select the desired storefront. If your preferred launcher isn't listed, open Edge (also in My apps), navigate to the store's website, and download it.
Play Anywhere, Even Offline
Handheld gaming means freedom, and sometimes that means playing without WiFi. While many titles are best enjoyed online, most single-player games run smoothly offline. Before you travel, test your games offline, pre-download updates and DLC, and ensure you're signed in. For detailed offline setup instructions, check out our guide. And if you're flying, remember to switch to airplane mode to conserve battery and avoid interruptions.
Personalize Your Setup: Accessibility and More
The Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X bring optimized accessibility features, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive gaming experience. Most visual, cognitive, and sensory accessibility options are accessible via the Profile & Settings icon in the upper left of the screen. Input accessibility settings, including on-screen keyboard and button remapping, are found in Armoury Crate SE.
Connect External Controllers
Pairing Xbox Wireless Controllers to your Xbox Ally is a breeze, just like with a PC. Turn on your controller, hold the Pair button, and look for the connect notification. If you miss it, open the Game Bar, navigate to Settings > Bluetooth > Manage devices, select Add device > Bluetooth, and follow the prompts. And don't forget the clever stand hidden inside the Xbox Ally box lid, perfect for charging or using an external controller without blocking the screen.
Docking for the Big Screen
The Xbox Ally is your portable gaming companion, but at home, it transforms into something even more special. Easily connect an external monitor or TV for a larger, more immersive experience. Simply use the USB-C port to connect directly or via a dock. For optimal performance, use "Second Screen Only" to match your TV's resolution and refresh rate.
Customize Joystick Ring Lights
The colorful lights surrounding the thumbsticks are iconic, but sometimes you might want to tone them down. Open Armoury Crate SE and select Lighting to adjust the pulse or turn them off entirely, especially if you're gaming in a dark room or on a red-eye flight.
Staying Up-to-Date: A Journey of Improvements
Your Xbox Ally journey is just beginning. Last month, we shared exciting updates, including Default Game Profiles (Preview) for automatic frame rate and power consumption balancing, Game Save Sync Indicators for real-time cloud progress confirmation, and other enhancements for a smoother, faster experience. Xbox and ASUS are committed to adding new features, and we'll keep you updated.
To ensure you're always running the latest, check these two places regularly:
- Windows OS Update: Open Game Bar > Settings Widget > More Settings > Open Windows Settings > Windows Update, then install all updates and restart.
- Update Armoury Crate SE: Open Command Center > Open Armoury Crate SE > Update Center > Check for Updates > Update All.
We're excited to see the gaming adventures you'll embark on with your new Xbox Ally or Xbox Ally X. Whether you're gaming on the couch or setting high scores on the go, these tips will ensure every session is memorable.
