The small, compact $99 Ouya game console and its larger controller (pictures)

The Ouya is a $99 game console that runs Android and fits in the palm of your hand. The console houses a Tegra 3 CPU, so don't expect Xbox 360 or PS3 performance levels, but if you're into the indie gaming scene or are looking to build your own games (every Ouya is also a development kit), it's one of the cheapest conduits into that world available. Look for it on June 4.

Ouya packs in HDMI, Micro-USB, full USB, Ethernet, built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and 5.1 sound support.

Every Ouya includes a pretty well-designed Xbox-like controller.

The controller's even larger than the console itself. Great if (like me) you're running out of space in your entertainment center.

In order to access the dual AA battery required for each controller, removing its face plates is necessary.

Ouya's controller goes with less triggery triggers than I'm used to, but it feels well-calibrated.

Sure, it's cute and all that the face buttons spell out "Ouya" but now I have to retrain my Xbox-focused brain as to the placement of "A."

The Ouya wants you to know when it's powered on.

The four screws on top of the console should make it easy for would-be modders to do what they do best.

This is what greets you when turning Ouya on: a very streamlined and minimalist interface.

Ouya's digital game store will surface the more interesting and successful titles.

Oh indie games. You're so self-aware.

Ouya will see its fair share of original titles, but expect to see ports and lots of them.