Essential Tips and Tricks to Navigate Your ASUS ROG Ally
Key Notes
- Master Armoury Crate for better game organization.
- Use controller buttons for Windows navigation.
- Capture your gameplay seamlessly with built-in functions.
Unlocking the Full Potential of Your ASUS ROG Ally Handheld Gaming PC
The ASUS ROG Ally merges portability with powerful gaming features, running on Windows 11, which is both an advantage and a challenge for users. With unique navigational hurdles due to its lack of traditional controls, understanding how to utilize this device effectively is crucial for an optimal gaming experience.
Step 1: Add Games and Apps to Armoury Crate
Step 1: Manually Add Your Favorite Games and Applications
Armoury Crate is your central hub for managing all installed games. To manually add a game or application, tap the Add button in the top right corner. Locate your desired game from the list and press the A button.
Productivity apps like Microsoft Word or web browsers can also be added, expanding your options for quick access from Armoury Crate.
Pro Tip: When removing applications, remember this only clears them from Armoury Crate, not your device.
Step 2: Navigate Windows Using Controller Buttons
Step 2: Efficient Windows Navigation with Controller Buttons
Using the ROG Ally’s touch screen can be cumbersome for navigating Windows. Instead, utilize the controller buttons as mouse substitutes:
- Move the cursor with the right joystick
- Left-click using the right shoulder button
- Right-click with the right trigger
- Press A for Enter actions
- Use B for Escape
Step 3: Utilize Hotkey Shortcuts Effectively
Step 3: Harness Hotkey Shortcuts for Quick Actions
Make the most of the ROG Ally’s Macro buttons by using pre-defined prefix shortcuts:
- Macro + D-pad Up: Opens keyboard
- Macro + D-pad Down: Launches Task Manager
- Macro + D-pad Left: Displays desktop
- Macro + D-pad Right: Opens Task Viewer
- Macro + A: Takes a screenshot
- Macro + B: Opens Windows Notification Center
- Macro + X: Switches to Projection Mode
- Macro + Y: Starts recording gameplay
Step 4: Customize Controller Button Mappings
Step 4: Personalize Your Controller Button Mapping
To remap control functions, navigate to Armoury Crate -> Settings -> Control Mode -> Configure. Choose between Gamepad or Desktop Mode, then select and redefine any button to suit your gameplay preferences.
Step 5: Calibrate Triggers and Analog Sticks
Step 5: Fine-Tune Triggers, Sticks, and Vibration Feedback
Under Armoury Crate, you can calibrate triggers and analog sticks. Select Calibrate to adjust sensitivity parameters, and fine-tune vibration intensity under the Vibration tab.
Step 6: Access Ctrl + Alt + Delete Seamlessly
Step 6: Quickly Access Task Management via Macro
Hold the Command Center button to activate the Ctrl + Alt + Delete screen, allowing you to manage applications, log out, or shut down swiftly without leaving Armoury Crate.
Step 7: Quick Access to the On-Screen Keyboard
Step 7: Enable On-Screen Keyboard for Text Input
If the on-screen keyboard doesn’t appear automatically, you can force it to launch by pressing the Command Center button followed by the keyboard icon. Alternatively, use the back Macro button plus the D-pad Up button for quick access.
Step 8: Capture Screenshots and Record Gameplay
Step 8: Capture Moments Instantly
To take a screenshot, hold either Macro button and tap the A button. For screen recording, hold the Macro button and press Y. Your captures can be found in Home Folder -> Videos -> Captures.
Step 9: Tether Your Ally for Online Gaming
Step 9: Utilize Mobile Data for Game Access
To game on-the-go, tether your ROG Ally to your smartphone’s mobile network. Enable your phone’s hotspot feature and connect through Wi-Fi settings on the Ally to enjoy seamless online gameplay.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on your mobile data usage if you’re gaming extensively.
Summary
The ASUS ROG Ally offers a robust handheld gaming experience, merging conventional gameplay with Windows functionality. By mastering Armoury Crate and controller features, you can significantly elevate your gaming sessions and overall productivity.
Conclusion
The ASUS ROG Ally, while streamlined for gaming, requires a bit of effort to navigate effectively. Adopting these techniques not only eases frustration during usage but enhances your overall gaming experience and workflow. Embrace the flexibility of this device for optimum performance!
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I play Steam games on the ASUS ROG Ally?
Yes, you can easily access and play Steam games on the ROG Ally using the Steam application, similar to how you’d use any other Windows-based PC.
Does the ROG Ally support game streaming services?
Absolutely! You can use various game streaming services compatible with Windows, such as NVIDIA GeForce NOW and Xbox Cloud Gaming, on the ROG Ally.