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IN BRIEF
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Every year, CES serves as a spectacular showcase for the latest and greatest in technology, and 2025 is no exception. This year, the gaming world witnessed an exciting blend of innovation and head-scratchers, with new devices and concepts designed to revolutionize how we play. From groundbreaking hardware to questionable ideas that might leave us wondering, the diversity of gaming innovations presented at the event is nothing short of captivating. Let’s dive into the standout creations and the not-so-great flops that defined CES 2025.
The annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is known for its groundbreaking technology reveals, and the year 2025 was no exception. This year’s event not only highlighted incredible advancements in gaming but also showcased some questionable innovations that left many scratching their heads. From exciting new devices that promise to elevate the gaming experience to perplexing products that might do more harm than good, here’s a look at the best and worst gaming innovations presented at CES 2025.
Favorite: MCON Magsafe Phone Controller
One of the standout products of the event was the MCON Magsafe phone controller. With the rapid advancement of mobile technology, it’s about time we elevate our gaming on smartphones beyond casual titles like Candy Crush. This innovative controller, which uses MagSafe technology, transforms your phone into a gaming powerhouse, similar to handheld consoles like the Nintendo DS.
Developed by young visionary Josh King, the MCON controller connects effortlessly to the phone, eliminating the hassle of removing cases, making it a breeze to use. With a full suite of controls, the magnetic connection is solid, and the design is not only functional but also user-friendly. For those interested, a Kickstarter campaign is already underway, allowing eager customers to secure their very own controller starting at $99.
Least Favorite: Razer Project Ava AI Esports Coach
On the flip side, Razer unveiled Project Ava, an AI esports coach designed to assist gamers during play. However, this innovation has sparked controversy. The concept of an AI-backseater may sound appealing, but it risks frustrating players more than helping them. By interrupting gameplay with unsolicited advice—often over the in-game audio—it might dilute the core gaming experience.
For gamers who enjoy the challenge and learning curve of a game, relying on an AI for tips can undermine that satisfaction, reducing the thrill of personal achievement. This approach raises valid concerns about whether it’s truly enhancing the experience or simply providing distractions. Maybe it’s best to leave gameplay coaching to human interactions rather than a misguided AI.
Favorite: Lenovo Legion Go S Brings SteamOS Outside the Steam Deck
Another thrilling revelation was the Lenovo Legion Go S. Promising to be the first handheld gaming device to come equipped with SteamOS—the operating system that many gamers love—it aims to revolutionize portable gaming beyond the existing limitations of handhelds today. With a starting price of $500, it offers notable performance improvements over its predecessor, the Steam Deck, while maintaining the familiar, user-friendly interface Steam fans adore.
The Legion Go S not only aims for enhanced specs but also strives to introduce a seamless gaming experience, finally delivering a worthy competitor without the awkwardness of running on Windows. Its release in May is highly anticipated, and it could pave the way for more devices leveraging SteamOS in the future.
Least Favorite: The PUBG Ally Brings the Dead Internet Theory to Games
Nvidia’s latest collaboration with PUBG developer Krafton raised eyebrows by introducing co-playable characters—bots you can command during multiplayer sessions. While intriguing as a concept, integrating bots in multiplayer games comes with a host of challenges and questions. Will these bots possess the same game awareness as human players? How do we ensure fair competition when AI could outshine less skilled players?
The fun of multiplayer shooters often lies in the unpredictability of human opponents, so if half the players are bots, the competitive spirit might diminish. Instead of upholding the glory of beating real individuals, it might turn into a hollow victory if it feels like you’re battling an undetermined algorithm.
Favorite: The Razer Project Arielle Has Sold Me on Heated and Cooling Gaming Chairs
While gaming chairs have become incredibly popular, the Razer Project Arielle adds a twist—heating and cooling features to create a comfortable gaming environment. Initially thought to be a gimmick, the integrated climate control provides direct comfort to your back and neck, making it an oasis amid the bustling CES floor.
After experiencing the immediacy of temperature regulation, it’s hard to imagine going back to standard chairs. With temperatures in Las Vegas notoriously unpredictable, Razer’s chair could prove to be a game-changer for long gaming sessions. Let’s hope Razer brings this innovative concept to market.
Least Favorite: Nvidia RTX Neural Faces is an AI Yassification Filter
In another baffling revelation, Nvidia presented the RTX Neural Faces, an AI tool designed to enhance NPC realism in games. However, the application has faced backlash as it appears to distort artists’ original designs, transforming characters into versions that verge on caricatures rather than maintaining their intended aesthetic.
The idea behind enhancing NPC visuals with AI technology sounds helpful, yet the results can often feel off and unaligned with the game’s universe. Ultimately, this product raises concerns regarding artistic integrity and whether AI should be allowed to interfere in creative processes that should remain human-centric.
Favorite: Acer Nitro Blaze 11
Lastly, the impressive Acer Nitro Blaze 11 caught everyone’s attention at CES. This device boasts a colossal 11-inch, 2560 by 1600 display that supports up to 120 frames per second, making it a formidable giant in the gaming handheld sector. The inclusion of detachable controllers adds versatility to the gaming experience while still remaining lightweight enough for portability.
This new handheld showcases the potential for balancing performance and convenience in gaming. Although it may not be the most practical choice for everyone, it invites gamers to reminisce about their younger years, where size and power were synonymous with excitement.
Comparison of Gaming Innovations at CES 2025
| Gaming Innovation | Category |
| MCON Magsafe Phone Controller | Exciting Peripheral |
| Razer Project Ava AI Coach | Disappointing AI Tool |
| Lenovo Legion Go S | Innovative Handheld |
| PUBG Ally Bot Integration | Uncertain Multiplayer Feature |
| Razer Project Arielle Chair | Comfort Enhancement |
| Nvidia RTX Neural Faces | Controversial AI Feature |
| Acer Nitro Blaze 11 | Large-Scale Handheld |
FAQ on CES 2025: The Best and Worst Gaming Innovations Showcased This Year
What were some of the favorite gaming innovations at CES 2025? The standout innovations included the MCON Magsafe phone controller, Lenovo Legion Go S featuring SteamOS, and Razer’s Project Arielle for heated and cooling gaming chairs.
What is the MCON Magsafe phone controller? This innovative controller designed by YouTuber Josh King allows for a seamless connection to mobile devices, transforming smartphones into handheld gaming consoles.
What makes the Lenovo Legion Go S unique? It is the first handheld gaming device outside of Valve to utilize SteamOS, enabling smoother game settings and enhanced performance.
Which innovation was least favored at CES 2025? The least favorite was Razer’s Project Ava AI esports coach, which was criticized for potentially being distracting and redundant during gameplay.
What is the function of Razer’s Project Ava AI? It aims to provide real-time gameplay suggestions by analyzing the player’s actions, which can detract from the gaming experience.
How did Razer’s Project Arielle perform at CES 2025? This gaming chair, which features built-in heating and cooling technology, was well-received for its comfort and effective temperature control.
What concerns were raised about the AI integration in gaming? The introduction of bots, such as in the PUBG Ally, raises questions about gameplay balance and whether winning feels rewarding when assisted by AI.
What did attendees think about Nvidia’s RTX Neural Faces feature? Many viewed it as an unnecessary “yassification” filter that compromises the artistic intentions of game developers.
Are there any other notable innovations mentioned? Yes, other notable mentions include the Acer Nitro Blaze 11, praised for its large, high-resolution display and impressive gameplay capabilities.
