Lenovo Legion Go S: A Game Changer in Handheld Gaming
The Lenovo Legion Go S has made waves in the handheld gaming market, especially with its recent transition to SteamOS. This review delves into the device's design, performance, and overall user experience, highlighting how it stands out in a crowded field of competitors.
Design and Build Quality
The Legion Go S sports a sleek and modern design, featuring a striking ‘Nebula Nocturne’ purple color that sets it apart from other handhelds. The all-in-one design, as opposed to removable controllers, offers a streamlined look and feel. The device is slightly larger than its competitors, which may be a concern for some users, but the build quality feels robust and premium.
Controls and Layout
The controls are well-placed, with back paddles that provide satisfying feedback. The adjustable triggers are a nice touch, although they could benefit from more precision. The inclusion of two USB-C ports allows for versatile connectivity options, whether for charging or connecting accessories. The face buttons are intuitive, and the addition of a dedicated Steam button enhances usability, making it easier to navigate the Steam interface.
Display Quality
One of the standout features of the Legion Go S is its 8-inch 1200p LCD display. While it may not be OLED, the color accuracy and brightness are impressive, making for an enjoyable gaming experience. The 120Hz refresh rate with FreeSync Premium support ensures smooth gameplay, which is particularly beneficial for fast-paced titles. Although some may argue that the resolution could be demanding for the hardware, the visual fidelity it offers is hard to overlook.
SteamOS: A Breath of Fresh Air
Transitioning to SteamOS has been a game changer for the Legion Go S. The operating system is designed for gaming, providing a seamless experience right out of the box. Users can log into their Steam accounts and start gaming without the hassle of navigating through a convoluted setup process. This ease of use is a significant advantage over Windows-based handhelds, which often require additional steps to access game libraries.
Limitations of SteamOS
However, it’s important to note that while SteamOS simplifies the gaming experience, it does come with limitations. Users may find themselves restricted to the Steam library, as accessing other game launchers can be cumbersome. For those who prefer a broader selection of games, this could be a drawback. Fortunately, Lenovo offers a Windows version of the Legion Go S for those who want more flexibility.
Performance Analysis
Equipped with the Z1 Extreme chip, the Legion Go S delivers impressive performance that rivals other handhelds on the market. In benchmark tests, it outperformed the Steam Deck significantly, showcasing its capabilities in demanding titles. For instance, in Cyberpunk 2077, the Legion Go S achieved an impressive 61 fps at 800p, while the Steam Deck struggled at 28 fps under similar conditions.
Gaming Experience
The performance translates well into real-world gaming scenarios. Titles like Monster Hunter Wilds run smoothly, with the Legion Go S maintaining a higher frame rate compared to its competitors. However, users should be mindful of the resolution settings, as pushing the device to its limits can lead to frame drops in more graphically intensive scenes. Overall, the gaming experience is enhanced by the powerful hardware and optimized software.
Battery Life Considerations
Battery life is always a concern with handheld gaming devices, and the Legion Go S is no exception. While it performs admirably in benchmark tests, real-world gaming can drain the battery quickly, especially when playing demanding titles at high settings. Users can expect around an hour and a half of gameplay under heavy load, which may be disappointing for those looking for extended gaming sessions. However, adjusting settings can help improve battery longevity.
Conclusion: Setting a New Standard
The Lenovo Legion Go S with SteamOS represents a significant leap forward in handheld gaming. By combining powerful hardware with a user-friendly operating system, Lenovo has created a device that not only competes with the likes of the Steam Deck but also sets a new standard for what portable gaming can be. While there are some limitations, particularly regarding game library access, the overall experience is compelling enough to make the Legion Go S a top choice for gamers on the go.
In conclusion, the Lenovo Legion Go S is not just another handheld; it’s a testament to what can be achieved when hardware and software are optimized for gaming. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, this device is worth considering for your portable gaming needs.