Last month, Valve announced a new game-focused operating system (SteamOS), a plan to put PC-like devices under the television (Steam Machines), and a new controller more capable of handling genres previously relegated to mouse and keyboard control (Steam Controller). The first images of the Steam Machine prototype have been shown, and the device looks remarkably like a console.

The Seattle Times has the images, which also include a table covered in Steam Controller prototypes. While these prototypes will help guide Valve in this process (a beta test will begin later this year), the intent is to allow PC manufacturers to create their own customizable boxes at different price points.

The SteamOS will be based on Linux and run compatible games in the library. It will also stream from PC or Mac running Steam via home WiFi.

Valve is building all of this to be modded and customized, but details are still sparse. You can check out previous coverage on SteamOS, Steam Machines, and the Steam Controller.

[Source: Seattle Times]

Our Take

It’s not surprising that the Steam Machine prototype looks like a console. If Valve is hoping to woo console gamers to the platform, putting that segment of the market at ease with familiar aesthetics will help. Moving into the living room is about more than just being where they are, it’s putting that consumer group in the frame of mind in which the Steam Machine is considered a direct competitor.