Future Tech - Part 17 - Sega Next Gen Console Update, things are looking up indeed.
Not to long ago, I wrote about a new console that could potentially put Sega back on top of the gaming market, knocking the 2 giants Sony and Microsoft of their pedestal.(You can Read that post HERE)
After I messaged the chap who is in charge of the design, components and software, he gave me a few bits of details he will allow me to share with you.
My first question was about the technical specs of the system as the main Spartan Console Site doesn't give us much info about all the specs, but does highlight some pretty impressive numbers on what is available. This was his reply...
''Things are very vague right now with the technical specs because we may change it. We're trying to accommodate a high spec machine at a decent price. There will be a post soon that contains more info on this. ''
So i am looking forward to what the final specs are, if they are anything like i imagined in my previous post, it will kill both Sony's and Microsoft's next console, so keep an eye out for that update by signing up to there Newsletter HERE.
I also asked about the case, Microsoft designed the 360 case before they finalised the components, resulting in a 3rd of all 360's failing with the red ring of death. (you can read about this Microsoft blunder here) i wondered if he designed the case before the components were chosen. This was his reply...
''The case was designed around the components. On top of that we still have a good amount of space in the case to bump up the hardware if need be. A lot of people seem to compare this to a steambox. This isn't a modular piece of hardware, we had a custom board created with components fixed to the motherboard. The only part that can be changed is the hard drive.''
This is great news, While the Xbox one is still suffering with heat problems and the PS4 shutting itself down if that gets to hot. The Spartan Console will be able to sustain a steady temperature, meaning you can game for longer and the console will last longer too.
Recently an update was issued on the Spartan site showcasing the prototype console and pad, all fully functional. While we are waiting for better quality pics and a video, there are a couple of pics and a list of what ports the prototype has and what we can expect to see on the final version.
So on the front, there are a pair of USB 3.0 ports (naturally). On the back there is another pair of USB 3.0 ports, along with a USB type C / thunderbolt port which is capable of 10Gb/s+ with compatible devices, 1 HDMI, 1 Display port (FINALLY, a console with a freeking Display Port) and an RJ45 socket/Ethernet.
They have a very roomy chassis so they will be putting in an optical drive, hopefully a Blu-ray that isn't shit like the PS4.
The controller in there original concept art looked similar to the Microsoft one, but those of you who had a genesis know them pads had 6 buttons on the face, not 4, and they are looking to revamp the face so its an updated version of the pads of old.
Image Source
At present the operating system is a modified Linux one which is open source. However, if Sega agree to the design proposal, that open source will become a closed one that Sega will control.
This update isn't what I was hoping for as I wanted juicy details about the components so I could compare to others, this would help in stemming any BS naysayers are saying. Yes there are not many details, but don't forget, the prototype isn't complete yet and the design work from the sound of things is still an ongoing process. Take a look at Microshaft, they spent 3 years designing the Xbox One, so just be patient.
When I receive any more details from the big man in charge, I will be sure to let you all know. Maybe, just Maybe, I may be able to swindle a console out of him for some Alpha testing, bring you all a video and full written review. Now that would be very cool indeed. (I can wish can't I?)
Thanks for Reading.
Stu @TechMojo
Look amazing ^_^ upped
cheers buddy.