Valve Steam Machine is expected to cost like a PC

Source: ValveAlongside the launch of the new Steam Frame VR, Valve introduced a console-style product to make it easier to access Steam games. The Steam Machine is a cube-shaped device that lets you play PC games on your TV. It supports 4K gaming at 60 frames per second using FSR technology and runs on AMD hardware. It is also designed to support cloud gaming and connect with devices, like Valve's own Steam Deck.

However, do not expect the console-like device to have a console-like price. Linus Sebastian of Linus Tech Tips said in a recent episode of the WAN Show that executives from Valve told him the device won't have a "console price," which is around US$500 or roughly CA$705. "Nobody said anything, but the energy of the room wasn't great," Linus said.

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Valve Steam Frame VR headset can run games natively

Source: Valve

While Valve's new Steam Frame VR headset is primarily a streaming virtual reality headset, it can also run games natively in standalone mode. The headset launches in 2026 for an undisclosed price.

You can consider it a SteamOS PC, powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, with 16GB LPDDR5X memory and 256GB or 1TB UFS storage, with microSD card support. It also comes with an onboard 21.6Wh battery, allowing you to play with or without a wired connection.

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Valve introduces new Steam Controller

Source: Valve

While it's possible to use the new Steam Machine with a traditional Bluetooth controller, Valve introduced a new Steam Controller. The controller integrates the different control methods you get on a Steam Deck, including sticks, grip buttons, triggers, face buttons, and bumpers. There are also trackpads for mouse controls and gyro controls.

You can use the Steam Controller wired or through Bluetooth. The charging dongle acts as a wireless transmitter for faster potential connection. You can individually customize input for each game, with profiles that are shareable. The accessory isn't limited to use with the Steam Machine. It will also work with the Steam Deck and Steam Frame VR. Valve has yet to announce the price for the controller.

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Report: 'Half-Life 3' is being playtested in its entirety

Image: Valve

If the rumours are to be believed, Half-Life 3 might be coming soon. Leaker Tyler McVicker reported that the game, which is supposedly codenamed HLX, is supposedly playable from start to finish and is being extensively playtested.

Some of the leaked info claims that HLX isn't expected to be a virtual reality-based game like Half-Life: Alyx. The game will reportedly have procedural generation details but not related to terrain or roguelike elements. Instead, it will influence parts like doors, props, physics, NPCs, and enemy types, like with the Left 4 Dead Director. Valve has yet to confirm that the game is in the works. But hopefully, we hear something soon.

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