Today NVIDIA has finally unveiled the full array of details on their next-gen pure Android gaming console we all know as Project SHIELD. The gaming device was revealed at CES and took many by surprise, but today NVIDIA’s released all the details we’ve been waiting for. If you’re a die-hard Android (or PC) gamer you’ll want to read on below.
We knew Project SHIELD was coming soon, and NVIDIA’s been hosting popular PC Monday and Android Thursday videos highlighting the Tegra 4 quad-core powerhouse gaming device, and those can be found at the links below. Today however, we can confirm the full specs that it will offer out of the box, and the price. NVIDIA SHIELD can be yours next month for just $349.
We knew it would rock a quad-core NVIDIA Tegra 4 processor and that 5th power-saving core, but the full array of details weren’t yet know. For $349 you’ll get a 5-inch 1280 x 720p HD display with anti-glare coatings for better outside visibility. The game console all-in-one will rock NVIDIA’s “world’s fastest mobile processor” and 2GB of RAM, be offered with 16GB of internal storage, and even has micro-SD for additional storage. Then of course it offers mini HDMI-out for streaming to the big screen, and micro-USB for charging and syncing.
SHIELD Games
SHIELD runs on vanilla, completely stock from Google, Android 4.1 Jelly Bean and will come out of the box pre-loaded with NVIDIA’s TegraZone for a suite of Tegra-optimized games that will make the experience top notch. As well as two free games for those who pre-order. You’ll get Sonic The Hedgehog 4 Episode II, and Expendable: Rearmed absolutely free.
Then of course running stock Android with a 5-inch display you can enjoy all the games and apps available on the Google Play Store, so more than 700,000 options. Google Music, Video & TV and more will all be fully available on SHIELD. As you all already know, it’s a 5-inch tablet that doubles as the most powerful Android game-console all built right into a comfortable game controller.
Then we’ll be learning more in the coming months about NVIDIA GRID and Geforce streaming, which will enable NVIDIA powered desktop PC’s to stream true console quality and above PC games right to SHIELD. Need for Speed and more all playable on SHIELD on the go, or from the couch. This will arrive as a beta in late June.
Accessories
As mentioned above, NVIDIA SHIELD will hit the streets officially for $349, shipping in June, but NVIDIA also has a few accessories they’ll also be offering. A dedicated hard carrying case will be available for $39.99 that will offer charging while in the case via micro-USB, then they’ll have some lid covers. The aluminum silver trim when the device is closed (as pictured below) will be customizable with a gloss black, and carbon fiber lid options starting at $19.99. We can expect some custom engraved gaming versions and more coming soon too.
When we first saw Project SHIELD back in January at CES NVIDIA promised good things ahead, and they are about to finally arrive. NVIDIA confirmed the design has taken on a few small improvements since our original SHIELD hands-on too. The finished product has improved joysticks that are spread a bit wider for easy access and a comfortable grip, textured tops for a better gaming experience, and more. The D-Pad it tight and not as squish as before, so you’ll get accurate and good response. Then they’ve improved the triggers for the best tactile response available on any Android gamepad.
Project SHIELD will begin shipping in June for $349 and will be available at NVIDIA’s online store, Newegg, Gamestop and Microcenter. Get excited for some top-tier Android and PC gaming on the go!
SOURCE: NVIDIA
$350!? I’m glad I got an Ouya instead.
yea, but OUYA doesn’t have the Play Store or a Tegra 4..Needs some hacks first
True, but with the yearly update cycle the Ouya will most likely have a Tegra 4 within 12 months for $99 plus you get the bonus of another controller.