I kinda feel like Valve might be over extending a bit if their plan is to see how these initial devices are received and then reveal the "SteamBox." The money could be put into the SteamBox itself instead of multiple devices. However, at the same time, they might have worked several deals with different computer developers that would allow you have several options for a console-like Steam PC. Guess we will know soon enough.
I'm with you on this one. Plus, if the "SteamBox" is anywhere around the $500, you might as well build your own PC that can not only run games fairly well, but also do some moderate digital media work.
Yes, the Xi3 was revealed last year, but the Piston model that is being produced in conjunction with Valve is more than likely the "SteamBox." It's the same-size, construction by the same developers, just going to be catered exclusively to the Steam-market of games. Plus, it was just revealed today. Hopefully, as CES goes on will get more details, preferably from Valve themselves.
I was kinda afraid of this - the "high-end" Xi3 could easily be built for around 500 bucks instead of "$999." I understand it's basically shrunk-down technology, but still. This makes me believe SteamBox could be around $699 or less when revealed. The cards are in Valve's hands now to see if they can tap into the Steam user's wants to get one of these. If it's not comparable to a next-gen console in price/performance, then it's not going to be worth at ...
Yeah I could totally see that being a viable route for Valve as well. The only concern is that the Steam Linux-based OS is catered for HDTV gaming in Big Picture mode, therefore, possibly having limited use outside of being a gaming PC. However, because of this it could make the OS and even computers designed for it's use MUCH less expensive because of the lack of bloatware. Good question though - will Valve do software sales AND PC sales of the OS? Or by the end of the year, will it whit...