OUYA…First thing that came to mind was that awkward sound Luigi makes in Luigi’s Mansion when he opens up a chest. Now what comes to mind is a tiny console that looks like it could fit in the palm of my hand, but with a system that is larger than life. For those who do not know what OUYA is, it is Android-based that is customizable so the player could make their own games and make it public, much like the applications for mobile devices with the Android OS. It serves as a way for the individual creator of games to have a playground in which to work and create games in. It is a way for indie games to get their names out there without having to go through the steps of being made for a big name console like PlayStation or Xbox. Instead, OUYA just connects to any compatible television and the rest is history.

Two new features have been added to make OUYA stand out as having the most bang for your buck: four controller support and Plex support. With Plex support, as well as twitchtv, you will not be without your StarCraft and online media fix at the tips of your fingers. With the four controller support, FPS playing will rival that of the bigger consoles, but at a much cheaper price.

But what makes OUYA so interesting is the buzz it is getting lately, but more importantly the friends it is making. It has been announced that Namco Bandai and OUYA are in “active discussions” about a potential partnership to bring a different side of gaming into homes through use of the inexpensive tiny console. With a partner like Namco by its side, OUYA will have access to today’s popular games like Tekken and the timeless games like Pac-Man and Galaga.

There is no doubt that OUYA is trying to revolutionize the gaming industry by bringing the ability to create and distribute independent games quicker and easier than before. It is giving the player interested in game design a chance to make it happen at a low price of $99.

For more information on OUYA, visit their website. Keep your eyes peeled on Velocity Gamer for any OUYA news!