A brand new video game console, the OUYA, has now landed in the hands of several software developers. This innovative piece of gaming hardware is being prepped to run Android 4.0 developed video games and applications, as well as feature content that runs on a free-to-play model. Each OUYA console already comes packaged as a dev kit, which means anyone can develop software for the console. The OUYA’s open design and familiar controller layout are features that are meant to showcase the console’s accessibility and simple design. Finished products of the OUYA are expected to land in gamer’s living rooms in March 2013.
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1. The OUYA is an Android-based (ICS) Console
The software that the OUYA runs itself on is Android 4.0 (ICS). The first batch of video games and applications available on the console will also be based on the Android 4.0 operating system. TWITCH.TV is one of the first compatible Android apps that will work on the OUYA.
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2. The Console Will be Easy to Hack Into
The OUYA is being designed as a device that is easy to root by anyone. Anyone who has access to everyday hardware tools can open the console through its simple use of screws. Hardware hackers can then proceed to create their own peripherals, which can be connected easily through the OUYA’s USB or Bluetooth ports. Would-be developers are also free to upgrade the console if they so choose.
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3. The Console Will Only Come at the Low Cost of $99
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4. The Controller Features a Touchpad
The OUYA controller will help games that were originally developed for mobile devices make a smooth transition to the TV screen through the touchpad. The touchpad will reportedly be smaller than the Wii U’s touchpad. It may measure somewhere between 3.5 and 4 inches. The controller also comes with a D-pad, trigger buttons, analog sticks, and color coded buttons with the letters “OUYA” attached to each one.
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5. The OUYA Console’s Funding Has Reached into the Millions
The pledged goal of $950,000 has already been met, but now $8,596,474 has now been put into the further development of the console. Currently, the OUYA has received financial funding through Kickstarter from 63,416 backers.
6. OUYA Development Kits Have Already Been Sent out to Interested Developers
http://youtu.be/psCoR4zmIpEPlenty of video game developers who are set to work with the OUYA have already been sent development kits. Videos have surfaced online of developers unboxing the console, which shows them showcasing its hardware and user interface.
7. Minecraft May be Available on the Console
Plenty of AAA-developers may be on board with the system, including Mojang, the creators of the smash-hit video game Minecraft. Mojang offered their sentiments towards the console through OUYA’s Kickstarter page:
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If OUYA delivers on the promise of being the first true open gaming platform that gives indie developers access to the living room gaming market, yes that is a great idea. We will follow the development of OUYA and see how it resonates with gamers. I could see all current Mojang games go on the platform if there’s a demand for it.
8. The OUYA’s design Was Done by Yves Behar
The console’s sleek and dynamic hardware design comes courtesy of Yves Behar, the designer behind products such as the Jawbone Jambox, Peel, and more.
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9. 2 Different Versions of the Console are Available
A standard edition of the console will be sent to financial backers who pledge $99 or more. A limited edition rich brown brushed metal finish version of the console will be given to financial backers who pledge $140.
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10. The OUYA is Pronounced a Certain Way
The OUYA is correctly pronounced “OOO-yah.”