Winhanced, a console-like design-focused frontend for Windows handhelds, is available now in Early Access.
Windows handhelds are something of a commodity in the retro handheld space. Not too long ago, the only options gamers had were things like the Win600 from Anbernic or one of the many GPD Win handhelds.
This is no longer the case. The ROG Ally, MSI Claw, and even the Steam Deck can all run Windows as their main OS. Much more, however, these are some of the strongest handhelds available on the market today.
Retro handhelds are usually specifically dedicated to retro consoles — it’s in the name. When stronger devices hit the scene, the usual expectation was that it would make newer retro consoles easier to play.
But with devices like the ROG Ally, the question of retro playability is truncated by their ability to play full PC games with little sacrifice. At that point, retro console emulation becomes a nice add-on as opposed to a standout feature.
Enhanced with Winhanced
Winhanced aims to make that more well-known and prominent. With the ability to load games from multiple different storefronts, it can present your games in a way that seems reminiscent of how digital titles would appear on a home console.
Winhanced also gives those familiar with SteamOS a chance to experience a similar design, albeit on Windows.
The Steam Deck has gained massive popularity over the past few years, but other companies like ROG and MSI have been ushering in new ways to play games by directly offering Windows on their devices. As most gamers use Windows on their home PCs and understand the basics of how to download, install, and play their games, naturally these consoles gain traction with the crowd not willing to venture into Valve’s Linux-based SteamOS.
Winhanced is available to download now directly from their site. To join, you’ll need to become a member of their Discord server as well, but that seems like a decent trade-off for a new frontend specifically tuned for Windows handhelds.
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