Analyst Rhys Elliott from Alinea Analytics believes that the new product is capable of not just shaking up the industry, but changing the perception of gaming. He notes that success depends on two key parameters — cost and real audience interest.
Elliott recalls that a significant portion of Steam users remain on older hardware and cannot switch to modern hardware due to the high price. According to him, this is why Steam Machine could be the answer to this audience's request.
Valve needs to set a price that is higher than that of current-generation consoles, while effectively promoting its advantages over traditional ones. It's easy to gain popularity among curious console gamers, not just among PC enthusiasts.
According to the analyst, in conditions of high price sensitivity, the device should cost less than $500. Otherwise, it will be perceived as an "expensive niche PC". He believes the ideal option is $400 with a controller: such a move would be a signal to console manufacturers who have raised prices.
Elliott believes that $400 will attract console owners, but emphasizes that it is important for Valve to correctly explain the purpose of the device, usage scenarios, and the reasons why the product is worth attention. Without this, demand will not form.
