The ROG Ally and ROG Ally X are fantastic handheld gaming devices, but Windows hasn’t always been the smoothest experience on them. Microsoft is aiming to change that with the introduction of a new Compact Mode for the Xbox Game Bar on Windows 11.
The Xbox Game Bar has been a valuable tool for PC gamers on larger monitors, offering a range of features without being overwhelming. However, on smaller screens like those found on handheld consoles, the standard interface felt cluttered and cumbersome. The new Compact Mode is designed to address this, simplifying the interface and focusing on essential features.
This streamlined approach makes accessing gaming tools much easier. No more navigating through a complex overlay. Gamers can quickly check their resource usage, switch between games, and even close applications with ease. The updated Home widget provides access to popular game launchers like Xbox, Steam, Battle.net, EA Play, Riot Games, and Ubisoft Connect. Exiting a game is as simple as selecting it in the Home widget and pressing the close option.
For Xbox Insiders, the Compact Mode is available now. Simply update the Xbox app to the latest version, open the Game Bar, navigate to Settings, and enable Compact Mode in the General section. You can even use the controller’s left and right bumpers to switch between widgets.
This update goes beyond just improving the gaming experience on smaller devices. It hints at Microsoft’s ambition to make Windows 11 a more prominent player in the handheld gaming market. This move comes just days after Steam confirmed that SteamOS would support handhelds like the ROG Ally, indicating a growing competition in this space. Microsoft is now ready to fight for its share.
By refining the gaming experience on smaller screens, Microsoft might be laying the groundwork for a future where Windows becomes a go-to platform for portable gaming. This update could even convince gamers who previously hesitated to adopt Windows 11 for handheld gaming. The race is on, and with Compact Mode, Microsoft is showing its commitment to making Windows 11 the best platform for gaming, no matter the screen size.
