Introducing the SuiPlay0X1: A New Contender in Handheld Gaming
This summer, the SuiPlay0X1 is set to launch, positioning itself as a competitor to the Steam Deck by incorporating cryptocurrency features. Our recent hands-on experience at Token2049 allowed us to explore the device’s noteworthy attributes. The device delivers a smooth gaming experience with titles like Elden Ring, maintaining high graphical fidelity and showcasing a vibrant display.
Performance and Design Insights
The SuiPlay0X1 is designed as a crypto-enhanced handheld console, aiming to not only support traditional PC gaming but also offer blockchain gaming experiences. During our time at Token2049 in Dubai, we had the opportunity to briefly test this portable console. As a dedicated gaming device, it boasts strong construction, impressive specifications, and a remarkable screen, but its standout feature is its integration with cryptocurrency.
Display Quality: A Key Feature
Upon handling the device, the quality of the display is immediately apparent. While many handheld devices now feature OLED screens, the SuiPlay0X1 comes equipped with a 7-inch LCD display that impresses with its vivid colors and sharpness, thanks to its bezel-less touchscreen design.
Smooth Gameplay Experience
While testing Elden Ring for a short duration, the console maintained a steady rate of 30 frames per second, providing a smooth experience without compromising on graphical quality. The device’s ability to handle the game at high settings allowed for striking color vibrancy and deep blacks, with minimal backlight bleed, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
Powerful Specifications
The SuiPlay0X1’s performance is bolstered by its robust specifications, which include an AMD Ryzen 7 7840U CPU, an AMD Ryzen 780M graphics card, and 512GB of SSD storage. Priced at $599, it is marketed as a high-end handheld PC, although pre-orders have already sold out. Some users may find the LCD display less appealing compared to the OLED screens offered by the Steam Deck at a lower price.
Screen Quality Defended
However, Adeniyi Abiodun, co-founder and CPO of Mysten Labs, the company behind the SuiPlay0X1 in collaboration with Playtron, defended the choice of LCD, stating it is among the highest-quality options available. Based on our experience, the screen certainly appeared impressive.
Ergonomics and Comfort Considerations
Despite its appealing features, the SuiPlay0X1 may not be as ergonomic as some of its competitors. Its relatively flat back could lead to discomfort during extended gaming sessions, particularly when compared to the more hand-friendly design of the Steam Deck. More in-depth testing will be needed to evaluate long-term usability.
Controls and Functionality
The console is equipped with a comprehensive array of controls, including dual joysticks, a d-pad, four triggers, and four buttons similar to those found on PlayStation controllers, along with basic function buttons for navigation. Overall, the controls felt high-quality, with the joysticks being particularly well-designed for a comfortable grip.
Innovative Operating System
A standout feature of the SuiPlay0X1 is its Linux-based Playtron operating system. Abiodun emphasized the need for a new gaming OS, stating that the future of gaming lies in more open systems rather than being confined to a single platform. The SuiPlay0X1 serves as a high-end example of what Playtron can achieve, with hopes that other developers will adopt the OS for their devices.
Game Compatibility and Features
PlaytronOS is specifically designed to support games from platforms like Steam, Epic Games, and GOG, as well as titles utilizing the Sui network. Abiodun highlighted this as a key differentiator, especially since the Steam Deck requires complex workarounds for non-Steam titles and has restrictions against crypto games.
Crypto Gaming Highlights
On its launch day, the SuiPlay0X1 will support seven cryptocurrency games, including titles like Xociety, Warped Universe, Panzerdogs, and ONE Fight Arena, all based on the Sui blockchain. The device simplifies the user experience by abstracting crypto elements, allowing users to log in using a traditional Web2 account. Upon logging in, gamers can seamlessly access crypto games through the SuiPlay0X1 Wallet, which is managed in the background.
Wallet Functionality and Blockchain Support
The SuiPlay0X1 Wallet operates on the Sui blockchain and is confirmed to support the SUI token, along with the newly introduced Game Dollar stablecoin. Additionally, Mysten Labs noted that games from different networks could also be played on the device if they are available in the compatible storefronts.
The Future of Crypto Gaming
The unique crypto gaming functionality is a significant selling point for the SuiPlay0X1. While there are handheld consoles optimized for popular gaming platforms, none have successfully integrated cryptocurrency features while delivering the necessary power for serious gaming. Other crypto games, such as the Avalanche shooter Off the Grid, will also be compatible due to their availability on the Epic Games Store, while titles like Axie Infinity, which are not on Epic, will not be playable at launch.
Market Potential and Industry Impact
The Solana Saga mobile phone is capable of running Android games and a limited number of Solana-connected titles, but it lacks the specifications needed for high-end PC games. In contrast, simpler devices like the BitBoy One and PSG1 cater to casual gaming and retro experiences, falling short of the performance found in PC-level handhelds. If the SuiPlay0X1 successfully delivers on its promised crypto integrations and achieves cross-chain compatibility, it may establish its own niche within the gaming industry. The real test will be whether mainstream gamers notice the device, particularly during a period of diminished momentum in the crypto gaming sector. We will learn more when the SuiPlay0X1 officially hits the market this summer.
