The "close to stock android" isn't worth much when compared to a nexus device, but on the other hand I have to add that this shield also has microSD and HDMI connectivity, which the nexus 7 lacks (source). The pen is something I initially dissed but actually does add a value (though probably just within the software that uses it).
I can think of some, but right now, I'm more interested in the tablet almost despite the shield name. And the main question is still the one I noted in my previous post: why a completely separate controller that is just an impossible sell at that price point? The audience for this (gamers) are probably already buried underneath all sorts of bluetooth controllers. Half the latency would be impressive, but I haven't heard much complaints about it to begin with. Then again, that may change once tests are performed (this sort of thing is usually nice until something better comes along that proves how flawed the original actually was).
And a more rhetorical question: any chance for an accessory that would connect that controller and the shield tablet? (that would seem to me the only saving grace for the controller, but I'm in no means any expert whatsoever).
They don't prevent you from connecting a Bluetooth controller to it. It will still accept the Bluetooth offerings, just like any other android product.
