Summary

  • Default Game Profiles auto-tune TDP and FPS on battery for ROG Xbox Ally to save power.
  • Profiles adjust power up/down to hit FPS targets, balancing performance and battery.
  • The feature is in preview with select supported titles; join Xbox Insider to test it.

With Microsoft's new handheld console out in the wild, the easy part is over. Now the company has the daunting challenge of making its hardware and Windows 11 a decent competitor to Valve's grip on the handheld market. Given how people are already replacing Windows 11 on their ROG Xbox Allys, things don't look great from the start.

That doesn't mean the company has no tricks up its sleeves, though. We only just saw the general rollout of the Full Screen Experience (FSE), which aims to make gaming smoother on Windows 11. Now, the company is releasing Default Game Profiles so your favorite titles play at their best with no effort from you.

👁 Asus ROG Xbox Ally gaming handheld.
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Microsoft reveals Default Game Profiles for the Rog Xbox Ally

Over on the Xbox Wire, Microsoft reveals what Default Game Profiles mean for you. These will only kick in when you're on battery power, so you'll always get the full experience while on the mains. Once it's time to get up and go, Default Game Profiles grabs a hand-crafted selection of settings to help your game run its best.

Part of these settings includes recommended power usage (TDP) and an FPS target. It then keeps a close eye on how your game is running. If the FPS is lagging behind its set target, the system will automatically begin directing more power to the game to help it reach its goal. If the FPS exceeds the target, the profile will begin reeling in the power usage to save battery. You can turn this feature on or off via the Armoury Crate Command Center Game Bar widget.

Microsoft states that these games are currently supported by Default Game Profiles, albeit the list is by no means exhaustive:

  • Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
  • Call of Duty: Black Ops 7
  • Call of Duty: Warzone
  • DOOM Eternal
  • DOOM: The Dark Ages
  • Forza Horizon 5
  • Gears 5
  • Gears of War: Reloaded
  • Gears Tactics
  • Halo: The Master Chief Collection
  • Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
  • Minecraft
  • Sea of Thieves
  • Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4

The feature is still in preview, so you won't see it on your Rog Xbox Ally right away. If you want to help test it out, check out the Xbox Insider Program FAQ for information on how to sign up.