Steam Machine: http://store.steampowered.com/livingroom/SteamMachines/ Controller Patent: http://www.google.com/patents/US20110105231 Interesting. Pros: A wide variety of hardware for the box that gives a balance between price, consumer choice, and certain set hardwares that are likely to be developing for. Cons: Some people may still be turned off by the options presented for a 'console'. Linux still has some hurdles to overcome such as DirectX and support from larger companies such as Blizzard/Ubisoft/etc. I don't think I will be getting a box anytime soon since I have my own PC gaming rig but I'll be using the OS for sure (even sooner if they would port over CS:GO) and the sooner we as gamers can get support for rendering non DirectX the better.
The goal is to push more developers to OpenGL which is cross platform capable rather than try to emulate or somehow bring DirectX to Linux. DX is good, and a bit easier to develop for, but the way Microsoft handles it for the consumer I would be very happy to see it go.
As long as we can get only the OS i'm fine, i don't think i need the hardware for now, unless it's a piece of art as well.
Last Annoucement: http://store.steampowered.com/livingroom/SteamController/ Frank opinion ~ I think the controller looks like a piece of shit. Rather hook up a Xbox/PS4 controller to my machine instead along side a mouse.
Have they said you wouldn't be able to hook them up? As long as it's a USB interface they all seem to behave similarly.
Mayhaps this will assuage your fears of using the steam controller? I for one am looking forward to using it when it comes out.
