### EmuDeck Machines: A New Chapter in Retro and PC Gaming Fusion
If you’re among the Steam Deck crowd or have a passion for retro gaming, you’ve likely heard of “EmuDeck.” Renowned for its intuitive software suite that makes running emulators on the Steam Deck effortless, EmuDeck has become a staple for those wishing to revisit the charm of classic titles. Now, the EmuDeck team is making a significant move into hardware with the launch of the **EmuDeck Machines**—a fresh range of retro emulation systems that also function as gaming PCs.
### What Are EmuDeck Machines?
The EmuDeck Machines are essentially compact gaming rigs crafted to deliver a seamless, console-like experience for both nostalgic and contemporary gaming. The initiative is led by DragoonDorise, one of the developers behind the original EmuDeck software. These machines come pre-loaded with EmuDeck software, making it incredibly convenient to enjoy your beloved retro games from the coziness of your sofa. Beyond retro gaming, the EmuDeck Machines support modern PC titles through Steam and other well-known PC launchers, powered by the Linux-based, gaming-centric **Bazzite OS**.
This idea echoes Valve’s Steam Machines, which sought to bring PC gaming into the living space yet ultimately struggled to find success. However, the EmuDeck Machines adopt a more community-driven approach, prioritizing user-friendliness and affordability over direct competition with mainstream consoles.
### Two Configurations to Choose From
The EmuDeck Machines will be offered in two configurations, catering to various gamer preferences:
1. **EM1 Model**: Retailing for $365 for early supporters, the EM1 features an Intel N97 processor with 8GB of RAM. This model is tailored for retro gaming and can smoothly operate emulators for systems up to the PS2/Wii generation. It also manages less resource-intensive modern games like *Hades* at 60 fps.
2. **EM2 Model**: For those seeking enhanced performance, the EM2 is available for $676 and boasts an overclocked Radeon 760M GPU along with 16GB of RAM. This configuration can handle more intense games such as *Cyberpunk 2077* and *Returnal*, in addition to emulators for PS3 and Xbox 360. DragoonDorise has also mentioned the potential for an optional Docking Station that would deliver “Radeon 7600” graphics power to the EM2, boosting its capabilities.
Both models come equipped with 512 GB of storage, which can be expanded via external USB hard drives. Additionally, each machine includes a Gamesir wireless controller, allowing users to start gaming right away. The design of the EmuDeck Machines draws clear inspiration from the Sega Dreamcast, featuring a compact 8.6-inch square chassis with four USB ports positioned where the Dreamcast’s controller ports would typically be.
### A Word of Caution
While the EmuDeck Machines seem promising, it’s wise to proceed with some caution. Currently, the hardware remains in the prototype phase, with an ambitious production timeline aiming for shipping by December. DragoonDorise has acknowledged that this initiative is more of a passion project than a commercial one, indicating a profit of only about $50 per unit sold. This might lead to challenges in scaling production or handling unforeseen technical hurdles.
Furthermore, the project is relying on IndieGogo for funding, a platform often associated with a “buyer beware” philosophy. While DragoonDorise has a background in managing an online store and appears dedicated to providing a quality product, prospective backers should remain aware of the inherent risks in crowdfunding endeavors.
### The Bigger Picture
Despite the challenges, the EmuDeck Machines symbolize an exciting advancement in retro gaming and its convergence with PC gaming. For supporters of the EmuDeck software, DragoonDorise assures that the hardware focus will not compromise ongoing software enhancements. In fact, functionalities like CloudSync, ROM Library, and the EmuDecky plugin were integrated into the EmuDeck software with the EmuDeck Machines in consideration, and these features are now accessible to all EmuDeck users.
At the time of writing, the EmuDeck Machines project has already garnered nearly $13,000 in pledges within its first 24 hours. While it’s evident that DragoonDorise isn’t primarily motivated by profit, the community’s enthusiasm indicates a genuine demand for such a product.
### Conclusion
The EmuDeck Machines represent an ambitious effort to connect the worlds of retro gaming and modern PC gaming, all while providing a user-friendly, console-like encounter. Although the project remains in its nascent stages and carries certain risks,
