Ouya Game Console Review - HTG

The Ouya supports both wired Ethernet and wireless Wi-Fi b/g/n connectivity. A cooling fan is integrated into the design, although most heat dissipation occurs passively.

The cooling vents are discreetly positioned on the underside of the unit, remaining largely unseen during normal operation.

External Features

From the front of the console, the only immediately visible element is the power button, which is flush with the top surface and centrally located.

Each Ouya package includes one controller, with additional controllers available for purchase at $49 apiece. Having established the console’s hardware components, a more detailed examination of the user experience – including the controller, setup process, and game access – will now be undertaken.

Evaluating the Ouya Controller

Recent discussions surrounding the next-generation Xbox and PlayStation controllers demonstrate the importance gamers place on their input devices. How does the controller included with the Ouya console compare to those from more established manufacturers?

Early iterations of the Ouya controller, specifically those provided to developers and Kickstarter backers, faced criticism regarding sticky buttons and noticeable input lag. However, the retail version addressed the button stickiness, and a subsequent software update resolved the latency issues.

Comfort and Build Quality

While the Ouya controller doesn't quite match the ergonomic comfort of the Xbox 360 controller or the PlayStation DualShock, it surpasses many initial expectations. The controller possesses a substantial weight with batteries installed.

The matte aluminum faceplates, concealing the battery compartments, offer a pleasant tactile experience. Furthermore, the buttons provide a crisp and responsive feel during operation.

The analog sticks feature a considerable range of motion. This can initially create the impression of slower responsiveness, but it is a characteristic easily adapted to with use.

A primary concern noted by testers was the perceived cheapness and hollowness of the trigger and bumper buttons. They lack the solid, firm feel found in higher-end controllers.

Unique Features: The Touchpad

Beyond the standard buttons, directional pad, analog sticks, and triggers, the Ouya controller incorporates a touchpad, similar to those found on laptops. Activating the touchpad displays a cursor on the screen.

Despite its inclusion, practical applications for the touchpad remain limited. During extensive testing, its primary function proved to be simply verifying its operational status. The Ouya’s focus on traditional controller input makes the touchpad feel somewhat superfluous.

Third-Party Controller Compatibility

Users dissatisfied with the stock controller, or those preferring the familiarity of existing controllers like those for the Xbox 360 or PlayStation, have viable alternatives. The Ouya supports a range of third-party controllers.

Although not officially documented, compatibility extends to numerous devices. A comprehensive list of confirmed working controllers can be found in the post, Controllers That Work With OUYA, on the OuyaForum.

It’s important to note that some games may exhibit compatibility issues with third-party controllers. However, developers are actively updating their games to broaden controller support, reducing the number of affected titles.

Many developers now indicate third-party controller support within their game’s store listing, often including icon overlays and descriptions to clarify compatibility.

Setup and Connectivity

Wired Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 controllers are the simplest to connect. They require only a USB connection to the Ouya console.

For multiple controller support, a USB hub is necessary to accommodate all connections.

Wireless third-party controllers can be easily integrated using an Xbox 360 USB controller receiver – authentic or aftermarket versions function equally well. The receiver automatically provisions support for up to four controllers.

While the stock controller is functional, the convenience and comfort of existing Xbox 360 controllers make them a preferable option. Investing in additional Ouya controllers at $150 for a set of three is less appealing.

Initial Configuration and System Setup

The initial setup process for the Ouya console presents a curious blend of simplicity and frustration. A core principle behind the Ouya experience is minimizing obstacles between players and their games. However, the initial setup demonstrates some notable shortcomings.

The included setup instructions are surprisingly minimal, consisting of only a single 4"x4" sheet directing users to simply "plug it in." Notably absent are instructions for inserting batteries into the controller. While seemingly minor, this oversight clashes with the console’s stated goal of a seamless gaming experience.

Controller Battery Installation

Accessing the battery compartments requires gently prying off the face plates on either side of the controller buttons and control sticks. Batteries can then be inserted. Although not overly complex, the process felt akin to an archaeological dig, requiring careful exploration of the new controller.

Once the batteries are installed, connecting the Ouya is straightforward. Connect the HDMI cable to your television, and either a network cable or prepare for Wi-Fi setup. Finally, press the power button located on top of the console to initiate startup.

Controller Pairing and System Updates

Pairing the controller is achieved by pressing and holding the dedicated Ouya button situated between the directional pad and the right thumbstick. Following controller pairing, the system automatically checks for updates. An Ethernet connection initiates updates immediately, while Wi-Fi prompts for network configuration.

Early reports highlighted significant Wi-Fi connectivity issues with the Ouya. The official and third-party forums were filled with user complaints regarding Wi-Fi instability. Fortunately, updates have addressed this problem. Wi-Fi setup is now as simple as selecting the desired network and entering the password.

Upon updating and rebooting, the system briefly displays stock Android Jellybean GUI elements before transitioning to the Ouya interface. Users are then prompted to create a new account or log in to an existing one.

Account Creation and Payment Information

Creating an account is a straightforward process, though it would be more convenient to complete this step on the Ouya website. Users must select a username, provide an email address, and create and confirm a password. The next step involves entering credit card details or a valid Ouya gift card as a payment method.

After completing these steps, which are simple but tedious due to the controller-based input, the main Ouya interface appears.

Essential Initial Settings

Before launching any games, it’s recommended to visit the "Manage" menu. This section contains options for Account, Controllers, Network, Notifications, and System settings.

Within the "Manage" menu, navigate to Account and then Parental Controls. Activating a PIN restriction on purchases is highly recommended.

Even without children, enabling the PIN provides an extra layer of security against accidental or unwanted purchases. The payment prompting mechanisms vary between games, and a PIN adds a crucial safeguard.

For households with children, the content filter can be activated within the same menu. Filtering options include age-based ratings of 9+, 12+, and 17+. While overtly mature content wasn't encountered during testing, some games contain suggestive humor or mild visual content.

Evaluating the User Interface Experience

In the early days of gaming, systems lacked graphical user interfaces; inserting a cartridge initiated gameplay, with any GUI being integral to the specific game. However, the dashboard experience is now a crucial aspect of modern gaming, and the Ouya presents a somewhat inconsistent experience in this regard.

Following the initial system setup—selecting a username and pairing the controller by pressing the central power button—users are presented with the main dashboard screen.

The dashboard’s GUI is characterized by its clarity and ease of navigation. While Android operates beneath the surface, users generally remain within the Ouya GUI, only needing to access deeper settings for advanced configuration. Selecting "Play" allows access to games "discovered" through the Discover panel, as illustrated in the screenshot.

Navigating the Discover Panel

The initial sections of the Discover screen are straightforward: Featured, Trending Now, and various Genres. Beyond these, the categorization becomes less intuitive, featuring entries like "Rose + Time Dev Sophie Houlden's Playlist" and "Play Like Bawb," which appear to contain unrelated game collections.

Other categories, such as "Sandbox" and "Escape Artists: New from Sandbox," are more logical, representing new and approved games from independent developers, respectively. However, the meaning of many categories remains unclear.

Despite attempts at a unique aesthetic, these less-obvious categories could benefit from clearer descriptions to enhance usability. They seem to prioritize a sense of mystery over practical usefulness.

Selecting a game from any category provides detailed information:

Each listing displays the developer’s name, content rating, download size, upload/update date, and a game description. Clicking the download button initiates the download process, adding the game to the "Play" section of the dashboard. Locating and downloading games, even with the unconventional sub-categories, is a simple process.

Game Discovery and the "Free-to-Play" Model

Despite its ease of use, the Ouya’s game discovery interface has faced criticism. A key marketing point is that all games are free to play, requiring developers to offer a free component—such as a free trial, in-app purchases, or a limited version—before charging users.

While conceptually appealing, this system presents practical challenges. The Ouya store lacks a standardized method for indicating the specific free-to-play arrangement. Some developers have proactively clarified their pricing models in game descriptions (e.g., "First four levels free" or "Saving requires a $1.99 upgrade") in response to user feedback.

However, this practice is not widespread. At the time of review, only one title in the "Trending Now" category provided pricing information, while the remaining 30 lacked such details. The actual prices for these games range from free to $14.99.

Ouya’s philosophy centers on frictionless gaming: download, enjoy, and pay if desired to unlock full features. However, the lack of upfront pricing information can deter users who prefer to know the cost before investing time in a game. Most other digital game stores, including Xbox Live Arcade and Google Play, clearly display game prices.

Unexpected purchase prompts can be disruptive, particularly during gameplay. Enabling the parental lock PIN is therefore recommended. This provides an opportunity to review the purchase details before authorizing a transaction, preventing accidental spending.

This model may benefit developers by leveraging player investment, but it raises concerns about transparency. Users should be able to assess the cost of a game before committing to a trial, knowing the price of full access. Addressing this issue should be a priority for Ouya.

Currently, an updated list of game prices is maintained by the community on the OuyaForum. While it’s somewhat inconvenient that users must rely on a third-party resource for this information, it provides a workaround.

Evaluating the Gaming Experience on the Ouya

Beyond assessing the hardware construction, controller quality, and other technical aspects, the core of any game console lies in the games themselves.

Critical Reception of the Ouya

Reviews of the Ouya system are diverse, ranging from praise for its unique and enjoyable titles to criticism labeling it a weak competitor unable to match modern consoles.

It’s important to acknowledge that the Ouya doesn’t, and won’t, rival the PS4 or Xbox One. A comparison to these powerful next-generation consoles is both inaccurate and unreasonable.

Individuals purchasing the Ouya with the expectation of a budget-friendly alternative to Sony or Microsoft’s offerings may be disappointed. The Ouya was conceived with a different purpose and build.

The Ouya as a Mobile Gaming Extension

Despite some perceptions, the Ouya largely functions as a tablet with additional ports and mobile games. However, this isn’t necessarily a drawback.

Many enjoyable mobile games, previously confined to smaller screens on Android phones and iPads, could benefit from being played on a television with dedicated controllers. Simple, enjoyable games have a significant market, as evidenced by the success of casual titles like Wii Sports and Mario Kart.

The Lack of a Defining Game

The primary issue with the Ouya’s game library isn't the simplicity of the games themselves, but the absence of a standout, must-have title.

There isn't a game comparable to Halo, Super Smash Bros., or even Wii Sports that is driving sales and attracting players. If potential buyers ask, "What can I actually play on it?" the answer – "ports from other systems and experimental sandbox games" – isn’t particularly compelling.

Graphical Capabilities and Performance

The Ouya is capable of handling games with impressive graphics and cinematic content. Its internal components are comparable to high-end Android tablets, allowing it to run a variety of games available on the Google Play Store.

For instance, games like Shadowgun demonstrate the console’s graphical potential. However, the library also contains a large number of games with retro graphics or those ported from Flash.