This is debatable if it belongs here, but since these will be running Bazzite they’re basically emulation focused Steam Machines. I think these have enough overlap with the Deck to be worth discussing here.
For those who don’t know:
-
Emudeck provides a series of tools to make setting up emulation on the Steam Deck easy. Includes installing emulators, setting up control schemes, installing CRT shaders, and adding emulated titles to Steam so that you can run them like native steam games.
-
Bazzite is a SteamOS alternative. Biggest difference is that it’s based on Fedora linux instead of Arch linux. Otherwise it provides a similar experience to SteamOS, with a steam based game mode, decky extension support, and many other similarities. It’s main advantages are that it works on non-Deck hardware, supports permanently installing non-flatpak linux software, and lets you use different linux desktops besides KDE.
I’m definitely interested in a modern Steam Machine and I wish them luck. But it’s tough to manage the logistics of crowdfunded hardware if you’re inexperienced and I’ve been burned before. Hopefully they can handle it.
They’re basically Steam Machines tailored more towards retro enthusiasts.
Styled to look like a Sega DreamCast
Priced from around £300.00 to £500.00