Lenovo Legion Go 2: The Next SteamOS Handheld Revealed
▼ Summary
– Lenovo announced it will begin selling a SteamOS version of its Legion Go 2 handheld gaming device in June 2026, starting at $1,199.
– This follows Lenovo’s previous Legion Go S, making it the second company after Valve to release a handheld with SteamOS.
– The SteamOS version is expected to offer a performance boost over the Windows version of the same device, which launched in October 2025.
– The Legion Go 2 is a premium device featuring a unique variable-refresh-rate OLED screen and detachable, wireless controllers that double as a mouse.
– Despite its high price and potential future competition, the device is noted for its versatility and advanced features like tablet functionality.
The Lenovo Legion Go 2 is set to receive a significant software upgrade, with the company announcing a dedicated SteamOS version for its flagship handheld gaming device. This move follows Lenovo’s earlier experiment with the Legion Go S, marking a continued commitment to offering gamers an alternative to the Windows operating system commonly found on competing devices. The SteamOS variant is scheduled to launch in June, carrying a starting price of $1,199, while maintaining the same hardware specifications as the existing Windows model.
This announcement means there will be a considerable gap between the initial release of the Windows version in late October and the arrival of the SteamOS option. By the time it debuts, the hardware will be several months old, potentially facing competition from next-generation chipsets. However, the shift to SteamOS itself can deliver a meaningful performance improvement in many games, leveraging an operating system built from the ground up for gaming efficiency.
Beyond the software, the Legion Go 2 stands out for its premium hardware features. It currently holds the distinction of being the only handheld on the market equipped with a variable-refresh-rate OLED screen, which provides stunning visual clarity and smooth motion. Its design philosophy emphasizes versatility, featuring detachable controllers reminiscent of a Nintendo Switch, a robust integrated kickstand, and the unique ability to function as a standalone tablet. One controller even incorporates a built-in FPS mouse mode, complete with a magnetic puck for smooth tracking on flat surfaces.
This design cements its reputation as a highly adaptable device. While some may find its weight and the additional mouse buttons on the grips to be slightly cumbersome during extended play sessions, its multifunctional nature is undeniable. For enthusiasts eager to experience a SteamOS-like environment on the current hardware, the community-driven Bazzite operating system offers a fully functional preview, with support for all the device’s features, including the detachable controllers and customizable RGB lighting.
(Source: The Verge)
