Valve, suddenly remembering that scalpers exist, now has a plan to help you get a Steam Machine since you likely missed out on the Steam Controller. Even if Valve’s PC/console hybrid costs a ton, it will likely be cheaper to get it directly than from an exorbitant eBay listing.
Redditors first spotted SteamTracking code on Steam’s website hinting that there may be four separate versions of the Steam Machine. These likely refer to the two storage configurations listed on Steam—512GB and 2TB SSD options. With four options in total, buyers may be able to purchase a Steam Machine with or without a Steam Controller.
The code scrapers also found mention of two Steam Frame VR headset models. That likely refers to the 256GB and 1TB storage options. Both systems support expanded storage through microSD cards, so there are options if you suddenly realize a quarter- or half-terabyte SSD isn’t nearly enough for modern gaming.
The original Reddit thread also noted that the code likely relates to a reservation system for the controller. This will likely be akin to the Steam Controller’s recently instituted reservation system. You’ll need an active Steam account to get in line to buy Valve’s new hardware. Plus, you can’t just make a dummy account. You need to have purchased something on Steam before April 27.
Currently, you need to set yourself up for an order and respond to an email within 72 hours to secure a Steam Controller. There’s a limit of only one per customer, and if you already ordered a controller, you can’t simply order another later. Valve will likely institute similar strict procedures for the Steam Machine.
The scalpers sit on the fringes like needle-eyed predators. They wait for any new hyped hardware to stumble by before snatching up all stock to resell for 200% more than its original cost. When Valve launched its buy page for the Steam Controller on its marketplace, the site suffered mass amounts of traffic that kept many from snagging a unit. Within less than an hour, buyers reported seeing the controller was out of stock. Resellers immediately offered “verified preorder” controllers for $200, $300, or more.
If you were lucky enough to purchase a Steam Controller for yourself, know that you’ll be able to connect up to four controllers to one console or one of the included 2.4GHz wired pucks that double as a charging station.
Valve has yet to set the price or launch date for the Steam Machine. At least it doesn’t seem much longer before the Half-Life maker offers the full details of its latest hardware. Considering the ongoing memory shortage and Valve’s comments that it will cost the same as an equivalent PC, expect you’ll need to stretch your wallet pretty wide to afford it.
