Alienware Steam Machines to release annually, "there will be no customization options"

Alienware will launch its first Steam Machines in September, and according to general manager Frank Azor, new machines will be released every year - and aren't upgradable.

Speaking with TrustedReviews via PCR, Azor said the machines will be released in a similar vein to consoles with the hardware locked. So, if consumers want to play games on this particular system at the newest setting with the latest technology, they will have to buy an entirely new system.

"Lifecycle wise, consoles update every five, six, seven years, we will be updating our Steam Machines every year," said Azor . “There will be no customization options – you can’t really update it. The platform will continue to evolve as the games become more resource intensive.

“If you actually want to customize your Alienware Steam Machine, maybe change your graphics card out or put in a new CPU, you would be better off with the standard Alienware X51. This particular product is restricted in its upgrade options.”

Other Steam Machine manufacturers were announced at CES 2014 early this month, so you will have plenty of options.

Thanks, MCV.