A few months ago, we reported on some rumors about PC gaming giant Valve releasing their own portable gaming console to compete with the Nintendo Switch, and it turns out they were indeed true!
Valve has officially revealed the Steam Deck, a new handheld device capable of playing your entire Steam library on the go, and it is set to release on December 2021. The Switch-like console comes in three different versions starting from $399 USD, with the more expensive versions containing more internal storage space on an SSD.
Here is a brief rundown on the different versions and what they come with:
Steam has also provided an overview of the Steam Deck and how you can go about purchasing one, which you can check out below:
■ About
Portability Meets Power
We partnered with AMD to create Steam Deck’s custom APU, optimized for handheld gaming. It is a Zen 2 + RDNA 2 powerhouse, delivering more than enough performance to run the latest AAA games in a very efficient power envelope.
Your Steam Library, Anywhere
Once you’ve logged into Steam Deck, your entire Steam Library shows up, just like any other PC. You’ll be able to find your collections and favorites – exactly where you left them.
Control with Comfort
The Steam Deck was built for extended play sessions—whether you’re using thumbsticks or trackpads—with full-size controls positioned perfectly within your reach. The rear of the device is sculpted to comfortably fit a wide range of hand sizes.
There’s a Dock, Too
The official dock props up your Steam Deck while connecting to external displays, wired networking, USB peripherals, and power. You can also use a powered USB-C hub, if you’ve got one lying around.
The official dock will be sold separately. More information coming soon.
■ Steam Deck Reservation FAQ
Why is there a reservation fee?
The main reason for reservations is to ensure an orderly and fair ordering process for customers when Steam Deck inventory becomes available. The additional fee gives us a clearer signal of intent to purchase, which gives us better data to balance supply chain, inventory, and regional distribution leading up to launch.
Why is my account not able to place a reservation until Sunday?
We are aware of potential unauthorized resellers, and as an additional safeguard to ensure a fair ordering process, we’ve added a requirement that the reserver has made a purchase on Steam prior to June 2021 for the first 48 hours of reservation availability.
How does the reservation system work?
When you submit a reservation, you will be put in a queue. Once inventory is available, you will be emailed in the order the reservations were made.
When will I be able to order?
We are aiming to start sending order invitations by December 2021. We will make every effort to convert all reservations to orders but we are not able to guarantee availability.
Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel your reservation on this page. If you cancel within 30 days, you will be refunded to whatever payment method you used. If you cancel after 30 days, your reservation fee will be refunded to your Steam Wallet.
What regions can I reserve Steam Deck from?
Customers in the United States, Canada, European Union, and the United Kingdom can reserve a Steam Deck. Information about expanded regional availability coming soon.
How many Steam Decks can I reserve?
One Steam Deck can be reserved and ordered per customer.
What happens to my reservation fee if I do not order my Steam Deck in time?
Your reservation fee will be refunded in full. If your refund occurs within 30 days of your initial reservation, you will be refunded to whatever payment method you used. If your refund occurs after 30 days of your initial reservation, you will be refunded to your Steam Wallet.
Are there any restrictions on users that can reserve the Steam Deck?
Your Steam account must be in a valid country. Additionally for the first 48 hours of reservation availability your account must be in good standing, and have made a purchase on Steam prior to June 2021.
Do I need a Steam account to use Steam Deck?
The default Steam Deck experience requires a Steam account (it’s free!). Games are purchased and downloaded using the Steam Store. That said, Steam Deck is a PC so you can install third party software and operating systems.
What if I’m not able to reserve right now and would like to purchase a Steam Deck in the future?
You may add Steam Deck to your wishlist and we will notify you when it is available for general purchase.
Is the reservation queue regional?
Yes, the reservation queue and expected order availability times are specific to each region.
Can I change which Steam Deck I purchase once I’m able to order?
Once you’re able to order, you can only purchase the Steam Deck model that you reserved.
When will I be charged in full for Steam Deck?
Once your reserved Steam Deck is available and you complete your purchase, you will be charged.
Does the reservation fee count towards my Steam Deck purchase price?
Yes.
And if you’re interested on reading up more on this console, you can go over to the official website.
What do you think of the Steam Deck? Will it prove to be a strong competitor to the Switch in the portable gaming market? Let us know in the comments!
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