After months of rumors, Valve has officially revealed the price for its new PC console, the "Steam Machine." The 512GB version will start at $1049, with reservations now available on the Steam platform. A bundle including the Steam Controller is priced at $1128, which brings the controller's cost down to $79. Purchased separately, the Steam Controller will retail for $99.
In addition to the entry-level model, Valve is also launching a 2TB version for $1349, or $1428 when bundled with a controller. While this price point is significantly higher than mainstream consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X, Valve is including two replacement faceplates with the 2TB model to offer more cosmetic customization options.
The final price is higher than many gamers anticipated, as initial speculation had placed the Steam Machine in the $700 to $800 range. However, the rising cost of PC components over the last six months, especially a sharp increase in RAM prices, has driven the final retail price above expectations. For players who view the Steam Machine as a console alternative, the $1049 starting price is a steep barrier to entry. But when viewed as a mini-PC, its price is competitive against products with similar performance and form factors, positioning the Steam Machine differently from traditional consoles.
To avoid a repeat of the chaotic rush during the Steam Deck launch, Valve is implementing a random reservation queue system this time around. Players can select their desired model and register for the first wave of invites until June 25. The system will then randomly sort the queue and notify potential buyers via email if they can purchase the device or have been placed on a waitlist.
Valve stated that this system is primarily designed to combat bots and scalpers while preventing customers from having to constantly refresh the store page. However, the RAM shortage is not only affecting the price but also the initial supply volume. The actual launch inventory for the Steam Machine remains to be seen.
via： IGN