Valve’s Steam Machine is sort of here, but really not yet, as the console-like PC device isn’t yet available to buy and hasn’t shipped to anyone as of now. But that will start to change on June 25, when Valve begins sending out emails to some people who have pre-registered and letting them buy a Steam Machine. Others will be put on a waiting list. It’s a bit messy and totally random, too. Here’s how it works.
From now until February 25 at 10 a.m. PST, you can go add yourself to the Steam Machine registration list. First, log in to Steam with your account. You’ll need a Steam account, by the way. Then simply pick which version of the $1,000+ device you want, accept the terms and conditions, and then hit the “Join the list” button. Here are the four bundles available:
Steam Machine 512GB: $1,049 USD
Bundle: Steam Machine 512GB + Steam Controller: $1,128 USD
Steam Machine 2TB: $1,349 USD
Bundle: Steam Machine 2TB + Steam Controller: $1,428 USD (Includes two faceplates: red fabric and solid walnut)
After you’ve done all that and been added to the list, you’ll get an automated email from Valve. This isn’t the email that will let you buy the Steam Machine, just one confirming you’re on the list. At this point you can still leave the list or, if you decide you want to spend more or less, pick a different bundle. Just make sure you’re on the list before June 25 at 10 a.m. PST.
On Thursday at 10 a.m. PST, Valve will stop letting people sign up for the registration list. It will then do a one-time randomization of the entire list. Then, it becomes a complete game of luck that you have no control over. Sorry.
Valve will then start moving down said list and sending emails out to people who signed up. Some people will get to buy a Steam Machine. Others will be put on a waiting list and, eventually, one day in the future, get a chance to buy a Steam Machine of their very own. If you miss the June 25 cutoff, you can still sign up for a chance to get the device, but you’ll be put on the waiting list automatically.
Due to the various RAM shortages affecting every tech company, Valve likely hasn’t made a lot of these devices. And despite the $1,000+ price tag, a lot of people want one. Do the math on that, and it becomes clear that between the randomization, the one-per-household limit, and the email system, the odds that you’ll have a chance to buy a Steam Machine this month are stacked against you.
Oh, and make sure that your Steam account is in good standing and that you’ve purchased something on Steam prior to April 27. If not, you won’t be able to buy a Steam Machine. What a sad ending to this whole ordeal. Anyway, good luck out there, friends. I’m rooting for you!
