I have a plethora of gaming devices: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Nintendo Switch, PC, MacBook, Steam Deck OLED, Legion Go, Ayaneo 2S, PlayStation Portal, Meta Quest 3, PlayStation VR2, iiRcade, Playdate, iPhone, iPad, and even my Samsung TV and Amazon Fire Stick for cloud streaming. Despite this vast arsenal, the Razer Edge, a device I initially dismissed, has recently become my go-to handheld.
Released in February 2023, the Razer Edge was touted as a dedicated cloud gaming device, competing with the likes of the Logitech Cloud G. While impressive, its hefty price tag and the rise of portable PCs like the Steam Deck made it seem redundant. I reviewed it, saw its potential, but ultimately shelved it. However, the arrival of Zenless Zone Zero changed everything.
I craved a portable way to experience Hoyoverse’s action-RPG without the distractions of my iPhone. The Razer Edge, with its larger screen, high performance, and comfortable Kishi controller, provided the immersive experience I sought. It reignited my love for the device.
Beyond Zenless Zone Zero, the Razer Edge excelled with other games like Lego Hill Climb Adventures and Super Mario Run. Its flexible design allowed me to use it as a tablet or with the Kishi controller, making it adaptable to various games. But the true revelation came with emulators.
As an Android tablet, the Razer Edge seamlessly runs emulators, allowing me to relive classic games like Donkey Kong on a Game Boy emulator. The Kishi controller automatically mapped controls, making the experience effortless. The Razer Edge became my go-to emulation machine.
In hindsight, Razer’s marketing focused heavily on cloud streaming, overlooking the device’s true potential. The high price point, paired with this marketing approach, ultimately hampered its success. While the Razer Edge remains expensive compared to the Steam Deck, its versatile nature offers a unique value proposition.
The Razer Edge, once dismissed, has become a valuable addition to my gaming arsenal. Its adaptability, from cloud gaming to emulating classics, makes it a unique and potent handheld device for those seeking a portable gaming experience beyond the limitations of smartphones or traditional consoles.
