Lenovo Legion Go S Review - The Future of Handheld Gaming

Just when you thought the handheld gaming market couldn't get more exciting, Lenovo has stepped onto the scene with its latest offering, the Legion Go S. Unveiled at CES 2025, this innovative device is set to shake up the landscape of portable gaming with its dual operating system options and powerful specifications. As the first third-party device to launch with Valve's SteamOS, the Legion Go S promises to enhance the gaming experience for players everywhere.

The Legion Go S has taken a more traditional approach to its design compared to its predecessor, the original Legion Go. This handheld features an 8-inch screen with a resolution of 1920x1200 and a variable refresh rate of up to 120Hz, allowing for a smooth gameplay experience. One notable change is the elimination of the detachable controllers and kickstand, leading to a sturdier and lighter device at just 1.6 pounds. This re-engineered design prioritizes comfort and portability, making it easy for gamers to take their adventures on the go.

Lenovo is offering the Legion Go S with two distinct AMD chip options: the new Ryzen Z2 Go and the established

. With memory options reaching up to 32GB of RAM, gamers can expect smooth multitasking and impressive performance across a plethora of titles. The device also boasts ample storage with a 1TB SSD option, ensuring that you can keep your favorite games close.

While the device has impressive specs, one of the standout features is its dual availability of operating systems. For those who prefer the streamlined gaming experience, the SteamOS version will provide direct access to Steam’s library, full cloud save functionality, and Remote Play for seamless streaming from your PC. Alternatively, the

model caters to gamers who rely on a wider range of titles, especially those requiring anti-cheat systems.

When it comes to pricing, the Legion Go S aims to appeal to a broad audience. The SteamOS variant will start at a tempting $499, while the more powerful Windows version comes in at $599. These competitive prices position the Legion Go S as a strong challenger against existing handhelds like the Steam Deck, which has dominated the market since its release.

The most compelling aspect of the Legion Go S is its unique ability to blend modern hardware with Valve's SteamOS. This combination allows it to capitalize on the convenience and user-friendliness synonymous with the Steam platform. The presence of features like the dedicated Steam button and optimized quick menu enhances the overall intuitive experience for users.

Moreover, with an increasing number of games being optimized for Linux through tools like Proton, Lenovo's venture into SteamOS represents a forward-thinking approach in a market that has predominantly relied on Windows-based systems. It's a bold move that could set a precedent for future competitors and might even encourage more game developers to focus on Linux compatibility.

In a nutshell, the Lenovo Legion Go S is more than just another handheld gaming device; it represents an important shift in the gaming landscape. With its combination of powerful specs, comfortable design, dual operating systems, and competitive pricing, it is poised to be a game-changer for both casual and serious gamers alike. The convergence of modern technology with a streamlined ecosystem like SteamOS offers a truly unique user experience, making the Legion Go S a standout contender in the evolving world of handheld gaming.