Yesterday, Valve's Big Picture mode for Steam went into Beta, available to all users. It introduces an interface for the Steam distribution and networking service designed for a controller, on a large screen. It provides a console-like experience for a previously PC-centric service. It even further develops the “living room gaming experience” by introducing elements such as the “Daisywheel” keyboard replacement that allows for a controller to type at modest speeds with a radial menu.

The new mode further materializes the notion of the long rumored "Steam Box," a mythical future console built on Steam's expansive digitally-distributed library. Last week, they posted a job opening for an Industrial Designer, citing in the description a frustration with the lack of innovation in computer hardware. Kotaku reports that Valve is not content with the closed nature of the 360 and PS3, where hardware innovation is limited, and patching requires certification.

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Last week, the indie console Ouya’s Kickstarter campaign ended with 63,416 backers contributing $8,596,475. Double Fine’s famously successful Kickstarter made $3,336,372 with 87,142. Both projects exceeded their funding goals by more than 800%. Their consumers’ voices have been heard, loudly, and the demand for these products is certain.

I want Ouya, and I don’t. I’ve backed it twice, withdrawing my support hours later each time. It hints at a variety of functions that appeal to me, but it doesn’t deliver the full package.

Valve just announced a new big-picture mode that allows you to operate Steam without a keyboard or mouse — basically it’s Steam for the home theater PC (HTPC).

I have a dream device. It’s a Steam-based console, built small, cheaply, with enough power to handle modern games, and includes a TV-friendly interface. It also plays movies. It uses a controller. It’s a gaming HTPC. Valve would likely never release such a device, but with the new mode, there is some hope for the dream...

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