Is this the future of PC gaming? Razer is debuting a prototype of a device it believes will reinvent, or rather, be the start of mobile gaming; the Razer Switchblade. The device is currently only a prototype, but it already looks incredibly intriguing and the company is well on its way to having a consumer ready product.

The Switchblade is a 7″ portable “gaming netbook” for lack of a better term. Not just an upgraded handheld console, the Switchblade has full  PC functionality plus promising an exceptional gaming experience.

Details were somewhat vague, with a general disclaimer of “subject to change”, but here is what we know.

The Switchblade was developed in close relationship with Intel and is based on an ”unreleased” Intel Atom processor (more details after we get a chance to talk with Intel), that will be able to sufficiently power 3D games, unfortunately  details on the graphics processor we not given, however our discussion with the devices lead project manager, seemed to hint at an possible Intel solution, though NVIDIA Ion graphics may be an equally likely solution

 Currently it features a 128GB 1.8″ SSD, wireless functions including Bluetooth, 802.11 G/N and likely 3G. The 7″ LCD is also multi-touch capable and Razer doesn’t hold gamers back with a proprietary OS, featuring a full version of Windows 7 Ultimate. It includes a single USB port, and mini HDMI connection capable of 1080P display allowing for easy conversion to a desktop environment.

One of the most impressive features of the Razer Switchblade is the programmable LCD keyboard, looking somewhat similar to the famed Optimus LCD keyboard, but unlike the expensive Optimus, Razer is utilizing a single LCD screen to display the key images, significantly cutting down on costs. This will interface directly with Razer’s software so users can create custom button layouts with gaming icons for any game.

The Switchblade is roughly 8″ wide, 6″ long and 1.5″ and its Aluminum housing should keep it relatively lightweight.