Valve's Steam Machines are set to be a more practical alternative for those who want a dedicated gaming PC that can sit under their TV. The machines will feature a 6-inch cube design, with a host of input/output options and the ability to expand storage via microSD cards. They'll also come pre-paired with up to four wireless controllers.
The announcement comes as Steam's market share continues to grow, with around 75 percent control over the gaming industry. Valve is positioning its new machines as a way for players to enjoy their favorite games on their big screen without having to use a separate PC or console.
While the design of the Steam Machine may resemble that of a traditional console, it will not be branded as such and instead marketed as a dedicated PC for gaming. The lack of customization options has sparked debate about whether these machines could be seen as consoles in disguise.
However, many believe that this could be a game-changer for gamers who value convenience above all else. With the ability to plug-in, pick up a controller, and enjoy their favorite games on their big screen, Valve's Steam Machines could provide a more streamlined experience than traditional PCs or consoles.
In terms of hardware, the machines will feature a semi-custom AMD desktop class CPU and GPU, with two internal storage capacities ranging from 512-GB to 2-TB SSDs that can be expanded via microSD cards. This suggests that while the machine may not offer extensive customization options, Valve is still catering to the needs of gamers who want flexibility in their hardware.
Valve's goal seems to be creating a more accessible and convenient gaming experience that straddles the line between traditional PCs and consoles.
The announcement comes as Steam's market share continues to grow, with around 75 percent control over the gaming industry. Valve is positioning its new machines as a way for players to enjoy their favorite games on their big screen without having to use a separate PC or console.
While the design of the Steam Machine may resemble that of a traditional console, it will not be branded as such and instead marketed as a dedicated PC for gaming. The lack of customization options has sparked debate about whether these machines could be seen as consoles in disguise.
However, many believe that this could be a game-changer for gamers who value convenience above all else. With the ability to plug-in, pick up a controller, and enjoy their favorite games on their big screen, Valve's Steam Machines could provide a more streamlined experience than traditional PCs or consoles.
In terms of hardware, the machines will feature a semi-custom AMD desktop class CPU and GPU, with two internal storage capacities ranging from 512-GB to 2-TB SSDs that can be expanded via microSD cards. This suggests that while the machine may not offer extensive customization options, Valve is still catering to the needs of gamers who want flexibility in their hardware.
Valve's goal seems to be creating a more accessible and convenient gaming experience that straddles the line between traditional PCs and consoles.