Introducing the Not-So-Secret Cube: Valve’s Steam Machine
In a twist that seems ripped straight from a sci-fi novel, the gaming world has been hit with the joyous news of Valve’s latest entry into the ‘console-like’ universe: the Steam Machine. Yes, folks, it’s a box—and not just any box—a six-inch cube infused with more horsepower than a herd of stampeding horses. If only this device could also do the dishes, it would certainly be the MVP of the household!
This chubby little cube is designed to bring all the glory of PC gaming to the living room. Because who wouldn’t want to play PC games on a screen that’s much larger than a smartphone but can’t really fit into a backpack? Perfect for lazy gamers who wish to remain on their couches while battling epic quests!
Phil Spencer’s Warm Fuzzies
Phil Spencer, the benevolent overlord of all things gaming at Microsoft, couldn’t help but throw some virtual confetti over Valve’s big announcement. “Gaming moves forward when players and developers have more ways to play and create,” he tweeted, probably while sipping on a pumpkin spice latte. It seems Spencer firmly believes in the gospel of choice, a principle that drives the Xbox-verse.
Not so coincidentally, rumors are buzzing that Microsoft has its own hybrid console brewing in the lab, which will be lasagna-like in its ability to play games from various platforms—Steam included! Maybe it will even come with a side of garlic bread. Who knows?
A Valve of Communication
Speaking of Steam, Valve’s Kaci Aitchison Boyle was quick to assure that the inspiration for the Steam Machine sprang from their vast experience with PC gaming. “We typically just work back from our own experiences,” she claimed, probably from an ergonomic gaming chair while munching on organic kale. Pioneers, truly!
Though some might wonder if that kale is getting to their heads, because one cannot deny the echo of console competition reverberating through the air. Surely, this isn’t merely chance! However, Valve is intent on sticking to its own game plan—something that sounds a bit akin to the ‘If You Build It, They Will Come’ philosophy, albeit with a lot more code and slight chances of freezing screens.
The Xbox and Steam Love Fest
Though there’s a lot going on behind the scenes, one thing is clear: the Xbox folks are embracing the fresh air of digital choices. Recently, Xbox’s president Sarah Bond hinted that the next console might borrow some ideas from the recently released Asus ROG Xbox Ally handhelds. And maybe some ideas from coffee shops while they’re at it?
As if a public service announcement, Spencer openly stated this desire to have more digital storefronts on Xbox consoles. After all, why limit gamers to a single source of loot when they could browse to their heart’s content? Walled gardens are for plants, not gamers, after all!
In Summary: Cube or Not to Cube
As the grand unveiling approaches early next year, the gaming community holds its collective breath. For some, the debate will be whether this cube will sit majestically under their TV or become just another electronic dust collector. Exciting times are ahead, but don’t forget to unplug to actually interact with reality once in a while—those laundry piles won’t fold themselves!
