The Vergecast Handheld gaming is the future — again
13 snips
Nov 6, 2023 
In a lively discussion, gaming journalists Chris Plante and Russ Frushtick dive into the resurgence of handheld gaming. They dissect how devices like the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck are reshaping industry dynamics. The duo explores the balance between casual and immersive gaming experiences, along with the role of cloud gaming in this evolving landscape. They also tackle the competition between major handhelds and speculate on future innovations, revealing exciting possibilities for the future of portable gaming.
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Handheld Gaming Market
- The Nintendo Switch's success proved handheld gaming's viability, prompting companies like Valve to enter the market.
- The lines between traditional and handheld gaming are blurring, with games designed for PC and consoles now playable on handhelds.
Vita's HDMI-Out
- Chris Plante recalls a PlayStation Vita press event showcasing an HDMI-out port, suggesting a vision of cross-platform play.
- This early concept, later scrapped, highlights the long-standing desire to bridge the gap between handheld and TV gaming.
Handheld Decline
- Despite early enthusiasm, handheld consoles like the DS and PSP saw a decline.
- Nintendo's focus on unique, lower-spec games contributed to the DS's success, while higher-end handhelds struggled.