Amazon is no longer willing to sit on the side-lines when it comes to the gaming industry. Understanding the importance of getting involved with gaming and make a stand on the console market (perhaps inspired by Valve’s own SteamOS and Steam Machine ambitions?), the company is openly trying to establish itself as a gaming contributor. The first signs have already appeared, with some images revealing the general design of the Amazon Bluetooth Wireless controller. It’s no beauty, that’s for sure, but it looks functional enough, and it clearly going to be a mix between gaming and media playback. Thus, it’s most likely to compete more with the Xbox One and less with the PS4.
It’s unclear as to when the controller will be launched. Amazon is also preparing to introduce a hybrid console/set-up box which will run on Android, and which will be aimed both at gaming, as well as TV entertainment, having access to Netflix or Hulu. The media playback buttons on the controller testify for this approach. Amazon also included two Xbox-like sticks on its controller. At a first glance, it looks pretty cheap, and all indications suggest that Amazon’s approach on the gaming market will be a budget-oriented one. Amazon’s desire to invest and expand into the gaming market was made evident last month, when the company acquired the Double Helix studio. The studio is known for developing 2008’s Silent Hill: Homecoming and last year’s Killer Instinct. Amazon officials stated that this acquisition is “part of our ongoing commitment to build innovative games for customers”.
So what do you think? Yay or nay? Does a budget console designed for entry-level gaming and home entertainment fit in the gaming industry? Can Amazon provide real competition for Nintendo, Sony, Valve or Microsoft? Sound off in the comments below.