MSI’s gaming handheld gets a post-apocalyptic paint job

MSI's Claw gaming handheld is getting a follow-up and a Fallout-themed variant.

Shown off at Computex 2024, this limited edition version of the first-generation MSI Claw features a unique exterior design inspired by the world of Fallout.

According to the company, “the entire exterior design is inspired by the game's Vaults, the Pip-Boys worn by Vault dwellers, and robots, making it a dream item for Fallout fans and players worldwide.”

Aside from that new coat of paint, the specs here are the same as the standard MSI Claw. For those not keeping track, that means an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor 155H, a 7-inch IPS touch display with FHD resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, 16GB of dual-channel RAM, and a 53Wh battery.

Australian pricing and storage options are to be determined but the model is expected to make its way down under later in 2024.

What's more, this Fallout-themed variant wasn't the only gaming handheld that MSI had to show off at this year's Computex. It also showed off (but stopped short of demo-ing) a completely overhauled "2.0" version of its gaming handheld called the MSI Claw 8 AI Plus.

Billed as “the most advanced 8-inch gaming handheld" in the market, it seems clear that MSI isn’t giving up on its quest to carve out a corner of the handheld gaming PC world for itself anytime soon.

The new MSI Claw 8 AI Plus is all but picking a fight with ASUS’ refreshed ROG Ally X. Like that device, a larger battery is one of the key upgrades here. However, this isn't the only tweak that MSI has made to the formula.

The MSI Claw 8 AI Plus also features one of Intel's new "Lunar Lake" Ultra processors plus design tweaks inspired by user feedback to its predecessor. MSI says that it has taken time to improve everything from the feel of the buttons to the shape of the charger.

Much like its predecessor (and its post-apocalyptic counterpart), the MSI Claw 8 AI Plus will run on Windows 11 and come preloaded with MSI’s Center M Game Launcher and App Player. There's also an additional Thunderbolt 4 USB-C port in the mix and those who opt for an overhauled gaming handheld will also snag a free month of Xbox Games Pass.

The MSI Claw 8 AI Plus has yet to get any sort of official pricing and availability for Australia, but given how quickly its predecessor made its way from CES 2024 to store shelves it seems likely that the new model will follow suit.