In brief
Valve has revealed a new console called the Steam Machine, designed to combine the power of PC gaming with the convenience of a home console. Launching in early 2026, the device boasts high performance specifications, supports 4K resolution, and promises an optimized gaming experience. In addition, Valve is introducing a wireless VR headset, indicating its intent to expand its influence in gaming hardware—and potentially reshuffle the competitive landscape against established rivals.
Valve, the company behind PC gaming platform Steam, has revealed a new console to rival Nintendo, Xbox and PlayStation.
The Steam Machine is a home console designed to allow gamers to play PC games on their TV - though it can also be used as a computer.
It is a spiritual sequel to the 2014 device of the same name, which failed to break into a market dominated by the three big gaming giants.
Prices for those consoles, back then, started at $499 (£300) - but Valve's latest iteration is expected to cost a good deal more as it packs a far greater punch.
The Steam Machine will go on sale in early 2026, with pricing yet to be announced.
In a video announcement, the company described the device as a powerful gaming PC in a small but mighty package - with a decent amount of power inside a 6-inch cube.
Powered by its Linux-based SteamOS operating system and AMD graphics processors, the Steam Machine can support 4k resolution and 60 frames per second.
In an unusual move, Valve has also announced further hardware - its Steam Frame virtual reality (VR) headset, which is entirely wireless and runs SteamOS.
Industry analysts predict these new offerings could significantly impact the competitive dynamics between Valve and established console makers.
