THE BUZZ: At CES, peripherals maker Razer is showing off a new gaming tablet prototype dubbed “Project Fiona”.

The device houses a 10.1-inch multitouch screen, which on each side has a handle offering four action buttons and one analog stick each. Inside the machine is an Intel Core i7 Ivy Bridge processor, along with Dolby Home Theater v4 audio and built-in force feedback and motion tracking. Powered by Windows 8, Razer says they are hoping to launch the device in the second half of this year at a price point somewhere under $1000.

EGM’s TAKE: Though I’m not quite sure at this point what I think of the entire idea, it certainly is an interesting concept. One of the biggest downfalls of normal tablet-based gaming it the lack of any actual controls. With this Project Fiona prototype, that certainly would be taken care of.

Of course, one then has to ask—how exactly would you hold the device when playing touchscreen-only games? Would those controls on the sides get in the way?

What do you think of the Project Fiona idea? Do you think it would bring some much-needed advancement to the idea of tablet gaming, or is it a design that puts function over form?