Valve Releases New Steam Machine

By Christopher Landa

Announced on Nov. 12, 2025, a new device will be joining the Steam lineup later this year. A computer hidden within a square interior, the Steam Machine is video game company Valve’s foray into the home console market. 

Optimized for gaming, the Steam Machine is a compact personal computer designed to compete with consoles like Xbox and PlayStation. Initial reactions were mixed but hopeful, as crossing the boundary between computer performance and console portability is a large jump. 

Its connection to the SteamOS is an asset many are attracted to; not only does this allow for games purchased on separate platforms to be shared between various devices, but it also allows access to different accounts for an even greater spread of game options. The connection to the SteamOS also means that the applications included in the device are engineered to maximize gaming performance.

The Steam Machine offers more flexibility than other consoles, as the Steam system is compatible with almost any controller. However, the Steam Machine’s new controller is also nothing to scoff at, with the software it offers making it suitable for all kinds of play. 

A concern for many gamers looking to purchase the Steam Machine is price. Early estimates for pricing range from anywhere between $500 to $1,000, but with the rising hardware component costs, prices are expected to hover around the higher end of that estimate. 

Others are also concerned about the cost-effectiveness of this machine. Entry to mid-level personal computers, while still costing more than the Steam Machine, offer more customization and potential for improvement than the home console. A final worry some have is game compatibility, as extensive anti-cheats that some games have may make them unplayable on the Steam Machine.

A new competitor in the home console market, Valve’s Steam Machine seeks to shake up the scene with new features and components, and while some hold mixed opinions, the device is sure to make a splash.