"This year marked the first time all three major gaming hardware companies Nintendo, Sony and Microsoft have handheld devices on the market. And they're not the only ones. A holiday survey conducted on behalf of the Entertainment Software Association of Canada (ESAC) found that 16 per cent of kids asked for gaming handhelds like the ROG Ally and the Steam Deck portable computer for Christmas gifts."
"In most respects, the Switch 2 is a straight hardware update to the original Switch, which became immensely popular thanks to its ability to play as a handheld but also connect to a TV via a dock. A significant power boost over its predecessor brings it nearly in line with Sony's and Microsoft's current home consoles. Its Joy-Con controllers now connect to the tablet with magnets, and it can play games (including your older Switch 1 games) via digital download or physical game cards."
Portable gaming systems experienced a renewed surge in 2025, with all three major console makers offering handheld devices and additional entrants like PC-based portables. A holiday ESAC survey found 16 percent of children requested handhelds and 46 percent requested home consoles, indicating growing demand for both categories and particular interest in the Steam Deck and PC gaming. Devices vary significantly in capability and form factor, and choice depends on user priorities. The Nintendo Switch 2, released in June 2025, offers higher performance, backward compatibility, magnetic Joy-Con attachment, and both digital and physical game options.
Read at www.cbc.ca
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