The gaming console wars just got weird...

The gaming console wars just got weird...

November 14, 2025 3 min
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🤖 AI Summary

Overview

Valve has unveiled the new Steam Machine, a hybrid gaming console and Linux PC powered by SteamOS, which is based on Arch Linux. This device aims to bridge the gap between gaming and productivity, offering a unique alternative to traditional consoles and gaming PCs.

Notable Quotes

- For the first time in history, a gaming console ships with a package manager.

- Finally, every gamer will be able to say, 'I use Arch, by the way.'

- This thing may not be for gamers who want to push things to their absolute max potential.

🎮 The Steam Machine: A Gaming Console Meets Linux PC

- The Steam Machine is a hybrid device that allows users to seamlessly switch between gaming and a full Linux desktop environment.

- Powered by SteamOS, a Linux-based operating system built on Arch Linux with KDE Plasma as the desktop environment.

- Offers flexibility to play AAA games, run Windows games via the Proton compatibility layer, and access non-Steam apps and game stores.

🖥️ Hardware and Performance

- Features a semi-custom AMD chip (4.8 GHz), 16 GB of RAM, 8 GB of VRAM, and a GPU capable of running 4K games at 60fps.

- While powerful enough for most games, it may struggle with resource-intensive tasks like VR gaming or running future titles like GTA 6.

- Hardware is fixed, limiting upgrade options compared to traditional PCs.

💻 Productivity and Customization

- Users can switch to desktop mode to use the device as a fully functional Linux PC, making it suitable for remote work or general computing.

- The Arch Linux foundation appeals to tech-savvy users, but the SteamOS flavor may not satisfy developers seeking full system control.

💰 Pricing and Accessibility

- Valve hints at an affordable price point, likely under $1,000, with speculation around $500-$700 being an incredible value.

- Positioned as an accessible option for gamers who want a versatile device without breaking the bank.

⚠️ Limitations and Drawbacks

- Fixed hardware limits future-proofing and upgrade potential.

- Not suitable for tasks like training AI models or other resource-heavy computing needs.

- May not cater to hardcore gamers seeking the absolute peak of performance.

AI-generated content may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon as a sole source of truth.

📋 Video Description

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Valve just dropped the Steam Machine - a console-like gaming pc that runs Arch under the hood. In today's video, we'll break down the details and ask if 2026 will finally be the year of the Linux desktop.

#coding #linux #steam #steamos #valve

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🔗 Resources
- https://store.steampowered.com/sale/steammachine

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🔖 Topics Covered
- Valve Announce the Steam Machine
- What is SteamOS
- Proton Compatibility Layer
- Will it run GTA6?