I think it plays a part
It might be cool for some people, but those multiple colours don't really come across as "high tech"
Design + Color play a big role with perceptions and market perceptions. Apple learned this as well.
There is a time and place for colour, don't get me wrong; but it seems to have its place with portables (I don't know why) whereas home systems seem to be best as darker or lighter strong solid colours that fit with home theatre sets
Look at how Sony handled their consoles; limited editions but they were strong solid colours. The PS2 was one brilliantly displayed machine. Even the Q...
Compare these contrasts and shades of the PS2 consoles and the design of the Q with this:
I understand it seems quite ridiculous, in a "who cares what colour it is?" or "its just plastic!" type of way, but think about the deep gut level reaction you have. Place yourself in the shoes of an average consumer, or a good majority of people. People who would be interested in the most popular games. On one hand, colour doesn't matter.
But even between the same packaging style, you can have a different gut level reaction between this:
and this
and even this!