Stalker 2 is not a good game in terms of performance on handhelds. The game struggles on handhelds but also on PCs. What makes things more annoying is the 3-5 minutes shader compilations even after initial launch.

Moreover, the Steam version on handhelds has recurring issues with controller detection, requiring workarounds such as using an Xbox controller.

Graphics Settings and Resolutions

1080p:

  • Unplayable at both medium and low settings, averaging around 26 FPS at medium.
  • Offers poor performance regardless of tweaks like FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution) or XESS (Xe Super Sampling).
stalker 2 1080p low benchmark

900p:

  • At medium settings with FSR balanced, performance sits at ~30 FPS when stationary but dips into the low 20s during gameplay.
  • Low settings with XESS balanced can reach ~33–34 FPS, but the experience remains inconsistent.
Stalker 2 rog ally x benchmark
stalker 2 900p benchmarks

720p:

  • Medium settings can achieve 33–35 FPS, but image quality suffers with FSR. XESS is recommended for better clarity.
  • Low settings provide the best performance, with ~37–38 FPS using FSR balanced.

Frame Gen Does Not Work

When it comes to AAA games the built-in frame-gen feature is known to help performance. However, this is not the case with Stalker 2.

Turning on frame-gen trigger input latency, input latency is a significant issue, making aiming and responsive gameplay difficult.

Compared to other titles like Black Myth: Wukong, Stalker 2‘s frame gen implementation feels sluggish, with noticeable delays in input.

So, I recommend you avoid frame gen until the latency issue is addressed. XESS balanced without frame gen offers the best compromise for clarity and performance.

So, What to Do?

Performance dips are severe in populated zones with NPCs, even at low settings. Expect FPS to drop into the teens during action-heavy sequences. The game’s survival mechanics are demanding, and low FPS makes it impossible to play.

If you still want to play Stalker 2 on handhelds like the ROG Ally X the best way is the Xbox Cloud Gaming.

Xbox Cloud Gaming offers a smoother experience but sacrifices visual fidelity.

Still Want to Play on ROG Ally X? Use These Settings

While Stalker 2 is playable on the Asus ROG Ally X, the experience is far from playable. But if your heart is set on playing Stalker 2 on ROG Ally X, the recommended approach is to use 720p resolution with low settings and XESS balanced, avoiding in-game frame generation due to input latency.

Use max VRAM allocation and max TDP on Ally X while playing Stalker 2.