In an age of powerful consoles, hybrid systems, monster gaming PCs, and handhelds that let you take your library anywhere, you’d think there wouldn’t be room for anything else. Turns out you’d be wrong. Sitting in my inbox was an email about a new platform called the QuarterCade, and it immediately got my attention.
The QuarterCade isn’t aiming to compete with the PlayStation 5 or a high-end PC. Instead, it’s being pitched as a compact gaming PC/console hybrid that caters to players who don’t need cutting-edge power. It’s designed for 720p to 1080p gaming, has a smaller footprint than most consoles, and honestly reminds me of a mini-PC that you could toss in a backpack or slide onto a crowded desk.
From what’s been shown so far, the QuarterCade runs on Linux and supports SteamOS, which means you’ll be able to log into your Steam account and access your library. In that sense, it feels like a stationary Steam Deck, not portable, but with the same flexibility of an open ecosystem. It also supports USB and Bluetooth controllers, modding, and custom graphics settings, so you aren’t locked into a walled garden.
The Indiegogo campaign goes live on October 3rd, with pricing starting at $349.99. That’s a bold move in a market where affordable PCs and consoles are tough to come by. The pitch is simple: no online subscription fees, no proprietary accessories, just an inexpensive way to dive into modern titles, indie gems, or even classic emulation without straining your wallet.
Specs haven’t been revealed yet, which does raise some questions. For $349.99, people will want to know exactly what hardware they’re getting before committing. Still, the idea has promise: a cheap, flexible machine that prioritizes gaming freedom and long-term usability.
Of course, I can’t help but remember other “disruptive” platforms like the Ouya, which left a sour taste for a lot of gamers. The QuarterCade will have to prove it isn’t another flash in the pan. But if it delivers on what’s being teased, it could carve out a nice space for budget-conscious players, travelers, and emulation fans who just want big gaming in a small package.
For more information on the QuarterCade, check out the Indiegogo page.
