Lenovo Legion Go S: A new SteamOS handheld on the horizon?

If Valve’s SteamOS is powering this, handheld gaming enthusiasts, it’s time to get ready for Lenovo to shake up the market with the Legion Go S, which is a gaming PC. With Valve expanding support for third party hardware, Lenovo could be joining Asus as an alternative to Windows based handhelds. So here’s what we know about this exciting development so far.

SteamOS on the Legion Go S: A New Era of Gaming?

Recently, Evan Blass leaked images of the unannounced Lenovo Legion Go S on social media, which features black and white variants of the handheld device. Another black model, with a Steam button strongly suggesting SteamOS integration. The white model also lacks the Steam button, perhaps indicating a Windows based version of the same hardware.

If true, it would be Lenovo’s foray into SteamOS powered gaming devices, which could attract gamers tired of Windows’ poor performance on small screens.

Why SteamOS?

Driven by its optimized gaming performance and compatibility with the software layer which makes many Windows games run well on Linux, Valve’s SteamOS is gaining popularity as a favourite operating system for handheld gaming devices.

PC makers like Lenovo are likely attracted to SteamOS for several reasons:

Improved Performance: SteamOS is a gaming built OS that doesn’t have the bloat and inefficiency of Windows.

Consumer Demand: Windows just isn’t optimized for small, handheld screens, and gamers are increasingly frustrated.

Valve’s Support: However, Valve’s recent updates to its branding guidelines seem to imply a strong endorsement for third party SteamOS hardware.

Why Is the Legion Go S So Special?

While details are scarce, here’s what we can infer about the Lenovo Legion Go S:

Multiple Configurations: According to leaked images, Lenovo might be offering two versions, one with SteamOS and one with Windows.

Design Aesthetics: The sleek black and white designs are modern and appeal to be competing with Steam Deck and ROG Ally.

Potential CES 2025 Reveal: With CES 2025 just weeks away, Lenovo would be well placed to unveil the Legion Go S officially alongside other SteamOS ready devices.

Valve’s Growing SteamOS Ecosystem

Valve isn’t exactly new to the business of promoting SteamOS hardware. Its Steam Machines initiative crumbled a decade ago, but struggled to take off because there were so few Linux compatible games. But the landscape has changed completely since Proton and the success of the Steam Deck revealed that Linux was viable for gaming.

As Valve continues to push the ecosystem, its updated branding guidelines now feature “SteamOS Powered by SteamOS” certification. With Lenovo’s arrival into this space, SteamOS could finally be a mainstream gaming platform.

So, What Does This Mean for Gamers?

The Legion Go S would be a game changer for the handheld gaming market if the Legion Go S delivers on its promise. A SteamOS-powered Legion Go S would offer:

A Windows-Free Alternative: For gamers who want to get away from Windows’ handheld device limitations.

Enhanced Compatibility: Proton makes it likely that most Windows games will run fine on SteamOS.

Competitive Pricing: While Lenovo’s reputation for affordability could make this device a real contender against the Steam Deck and ROG Ally, it’s a curious choice for a company that once ruled the laptop world.

Conclusion: The Future of Handheld Gaming

Rumored Lenovo Legion Go S is one of the most exciting developments in handheld gaming so far. a built in OS in the hope that gamers would have a smoother, more streamlined experience and was further a chance for Lenovo to compete against those of Windows based competitors.

Now, with CES 2025 right around the corner, we may not have to wait too long to see this device in action. Make sure to check out Lenovo’s Legion Go S and the rapidly expanding SteamOS powered gaming!