- Steam Machine Looks Imminent as Users Spot Bundle References Through Steam Database
- Valve’s Steam Controller is now sold by pre-order to fend off resellers
- Steam Machine can also be sold through a pre-order queue, as the package references are in a pre-order system code.
Gamers are still anticipating the Steam Machine, after delays forced Valve to adjust its original early 2026 slate, but a new development means it may be on the horizon.
As reported by Notebookcheck, four references to Steam Machine packages (specifically 1629460, 1629458, 1629447, and 1629446) were detected in the Steam database in a system code for pre-order, suggesting that Valve has four console-style PC models ready for release.
Valve’s Steam Controller was sold out in several regions within minutes of its release, particularly due to resellers. This effectively forced the company to introduce a reservation queuing system for the accessory, limiting reservations to one unit per user.
Like the Steam Deck, accounts must be in good standing and have made at least one purchase by April 27, 2026, ultimately making it easier for genuine buyers to get their hands on it.
It looks like Valve isn’t taking any chances and is doing the same thing with the Steam Machine, but this time, before launch. Most importantly, though, it’s a very strong sign that the release date and price will finally be announced, along with the opening of pre-orders.
We’ve seen the same signs of Valve’s Steam Controller imports and quiet changes to Steam’s database happening right before its release, and that’s now happening with the Steam Machine, so it’s safe to assume Valve has figured out what to do about the mini PC’s price.
It’s worth noting that the four Steam Machine bundles referenced are likely to be different models based on storage options, such as 256GB, 512GB, or 2TB (two of which are already confirmed) or bundles, rather than models with different CPUs or GPUs.
The only major concern at this stage is whether Valve has enough units to go around, and depending on the impact of the RAM crisis (memory shortages and high prices), including resellers looking to work harder despite the pre-order system, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the Steam Machine sell out within hours.
Fortunately, the speculation stages are coming to an end and the long-awaited system is almost here; It just needs to be reasonably priced.
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