Yep, it’s really just a special controller for the Ableton Live software – I’m guessing if he wants a Launchpad he’s at least had a look at it before. As said, you do get a really cut-down version with it that’s enough to get started. You can pay to upgrade to a better version later.
It’s not hugely resource hungry, just needs:
Intel® Mac with Mac OS X 10.7 or later, or PC with Windows 7/8/10; multicore processor; 4 GB RAM; 1024×768 display; Broadband internet connection for installation; 3GB free disk space
Which any Windows or Mac computer from the last 4 or 5 years should manage fine.