Virgil van Dijk Prefers PS Vita Over Steam Deck OLED and Switch 2 in 2026

In a surprising turn for the 2026 gaming market, Liverpool football star Virgil van Dijk has publicly signaled his preference for the legacy PlayStation Vita over modern hardware like the Steam Deck OLED and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. While the gaming industry continues to shift toward high-performance devices running SteamOS or next-generation mobile chipsets, the Dutch defender remains committed to Sony’s discontinued handheld console. At In Game News, we have been tracking how professional athletes integrate gaming into their downtime, and this revelation highlights a growing trend of nostalgia-driven hardware choices among high-profile figures.

The Shift in Handheld Preferences

The current market is dominated by the Steam Deck 2 and the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, both of which have been heavily featured in recent Nintendo Direct presentations and industry showcases. Despite the technological leap these devices offer, Van Dijk’s choice serves as a reminder that personal preference often outweighs raw processing power or modern software ecosystems. For many, the form factor and library of the PlayStation Vita provide a specific experience that current handhelds do not replicate.

When considering what handheld console does Virgil van Dijk prefer in 2026, the answer points directly to Sony's 2011 hardware. This preference is particularly notable given the widespread adoption of the Steam Deck OLED among professional athletes who travel frequently. Our coverage at our gaming hardware coverage suggests that while newer devices offer superior resolution and frame rates, the legacy appeal of the Vita remains strong.

Why Virgil van Dijk Prefers PS Vita Over Steam Deck

The question of why does Virgil van Dijk prefer PS Vita over Steam Deck has sparked debate within the community. While the Steam Deck provides access to a massive library via SteamOS, Van Dijk’s choice appears rooted in the unique design and tactile feel of the PlayStation Vita. The device, which was officially discontinued by Sony years ago, continues to hold a dedicated user base, even among those with the means to access the latest technology.

We have observed that is the PS Vita still popular with professional footballers in 2026? The answer is a qualified yes, at least within the context of private collections. Many athletes prefer the simplicity of a dedicated gaming device that does not require the updates, driver management, or complex configurations associated with modern PC-based handhelds. For a professional athlete with a demanding schedule, the "pick-up-and-play" nature of the Vita offers a level of convenience that remains unmatched.

Does Virgil van Dijk Play the Nintendo Switch 2?

Despite the buzz surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2, there is no indication that Van Dijk has transitioned to Nintendo's latest hardware. While the industry closely watches every Nintendo Direct for updates on the console's performance, the Liverpool captain seems content with his existing setup. For those asking does Virgil van Dijk play the Nintendo Switch 2, current reports confirm that his focus remains on his preferred PlayStation hardware.

This situation presents an interesting case study for hardware manufacturers. Even as companies push for higher specs and more complex operating systems, there is a segment of the market—including high-profile influencers and athletes—that values the specific design language of older consoles. You can read more about how legacy systems impact modern trends in our retro gaming news section.

Comparing Handheld Options in 2026

The following table outlines the key differences between the devices currently in the spotlight of the gaming community:

The Virgil van Dijk favorite gaming handheld 2026 choice underscores the fact that the gaming experience is deeply subjective. While the Steam Deck 2 and Nintendo Switch 2 represent the pinnacle of current mobile gaming, they are not the only options that satisfy the needs of high-profile users. As we continue to monitor these trends at In Game News, it is clear that the legacy of the PlayStation Vita is far from over in the eyes of its most dedicated fans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What handheld console does Virgil van Dijk prefer in 2026?

Virgil van Dijk has expressed a personal preference for the PlayStation Vita over contemporary hardware like the Steam Deck OLED and the Nintendo Switch 2.

Why does Virgil van Dijk prefer PS Vita over Steam Deck?

While the specific technical reasoning remains personal, the professional footballer maintains a preference for the legacy Sony handheld despite the availability of modern PC-based devices.

Is the PS Vita still popular with professional footballers in 2026?

The PlayStation Vita retains a niche following among certain high-profile users, as evidenced by Virgil van Dijk's continued use of the device in 2026.