this is a hard one to quantify because technically if you own a PC, Mac or Linux gaming system right now, then you already own a Steambox. Anyone can hook their computer up to their TV, PC Monitor or other output device and use Steams “Big Picture Mode” to kick back with a control pad and enjoy their favourite games in a more “console like” fashion.
Yet this isn’t what Steam seem to have in mind and its said that the hardware will be running the Linux OS and have its own customisable hardware that could offer a more dynamic alternative to the offerings from Microsoft and Sony, but its all a bit rumour filled at the moment, one thing we do know of course is that “something” is coming from Steam and I don’t think we’ll have long to wait.
It was only recently that xi3 Corporation detailed their Piston system, which you can see above, an extremely small form factor PC with a high price tag that ranges from $499 to $999, is this the next-gen solution? I don’t think so, its a niche at best and while this might put PC gaming in a format that sits under your TV, at least for those with no system building knowledge of their own, I don’t think it has staying power.
I would have thought you’d mention the Razer Edge to be honest. Considering that it won almost everything it could win at CES 2013. Its less powerfull than a PS4 or a computer but its portable and can be used a console or even as a normal PC/Tablet. Not that im getting one even if i could afford it. The price is pretty harsh but then again i dont see anything else offering that many options.
Xi3’s Piston is NOT the Steambox. Valve have distanced themselves from this assertion which was made by the media.
Neither Xi3 nor Valve have ever gone on record to say that this underpowered, overpriced system is the Steambox.
I agree with JMHJ about the Razer Edge