Razer Cortex Lets You Stream PC Games to any Android Microconsole

Razer has joined the likes of game-streaming champions Nvidia and Valve by unveiling the Razer Cortex: Stream, an update to its game-launcher Cortex software that will allow users to stream games from their PCs to the living room. The software, which is based on a new proprietary streaming technology, is due to launch in beta later this year.

Unlike Nvidia's streaming technology, which only works with Nvidia GPUs, and Valve's, which only works between two PCs running Steam, Razer claims the Cortex: Stream software will work with any Android-based microconsole. However, the software will not be free, priced at $39.99 (€34,99) from the Razer Store.

Those without an existing Android-based microconsole have the option of picking up Razer's new Razer Forge TV, a sleek black box that's set to retail for $99.99 (€99.00). The Razer Forge TV is based on the Snapdragon 805 chipset, and features an ARM-based 2.5 GHz quad-core Krait 450 CPU, and Adreno 420 GPU, 2GB of RAM, and 16GB of storage. Other features include Bluetooth 4.1, AC wireless, Gigabit Ethernet, and a HDMI 1.4 output.

Accompanying the console are two new peripherals. The $79.99 (€79.99) Razer Serval is a Bluetooth 3.0 controller with optional wired mode in the style of the Xbox 360 pad, while the $129.99 (€129.99) Razer Turret is a gaming mouse and keyboard designed to be used on your lap. Razer claims the Turret will last up to four months on a single charge, with the bundled 3500 DPI laser mouse going for up to 40-hours on a single charge.

The Razer Forge TV and Razer Serval are both due for release in Q1 of this year, with the Razer Turret following in Q2. Those wishing to save a few bucks can pick up the Forge TV and Serval in a bundle for $149.99 (€149.99), which also includes the Cortex streaming software for free. Similarly, those who pick up a Turret will be treated to free streaming software.