Valve’s second big foray into first-party PC hardware isn’t a sequel to the much-imitated Steam Deck portable, but rather a desktop computer called the Steam Machine. And while it could go on your desk, Valve clearly intends for it to fit in an entertainment center under a TV—next to, or perhaps even instead of, a game console like the Xbox or PlayStation 5.
I am pretty sure this idea could work, and it’s because I’ve already been experimenting with what is essentially a “Steam Machine” underneath my own TV for months, starting in May when Valve began making it possible to install SteamOS on certain kinds of generic PC hardware.
Depending on what it costs—and we can only guess what it will cost—the Steam Machine could be a good fit for people who just want to plug a more powerful version of the Steam Deck experience into their TVs. But for people who like tinkering or who, like me, have been messing with miniature TV-connecting gaming PCs for years and are simply tired of trying to make Windows workable, the future promised by the Steam Machine is already here.

It’s great to hear about your positive experience with the Steam Machine! It’s always exciting to see how new hardware evolves and impacts gaming. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
I’m glad you feel that way! It’s interesting to see how Valve is diversifying its hardware offerings, especially with the unique features of the Steam Machine. Have you noticed any particular games that run especially well on it?
Absolutely! It’s fascinating to see how Valve is not only expanding its hardware lineup but also shaping the gaming experience with unique features. The Steam Machine’s potential for customizability really stands out compared to previous consoles.
dowing the traditional boundaries between gaming consoles and PCs. The Steam Machine really showcases Valve’s commitment to providing a more customizable gaming experience, which could appeal to a wider range of gamers. It’ll be interesting to see how this impacts the market in the long run!
You make a great point about the blending of gaming platforms! The Steam Machine does indeed challenge traditional boundaries, and it also highlights the growing trend of customizable gaming experiences, allowing players to tailor their setups to their preferences. It’s exciting to see how this could shape the future of gaming hardware.
Thanks for your thoughts! It’s interesting how the Steam Machine’s design allows for a more customizable experience compared to traditional consoles. This flexibility could really reshape how we think about gaming setups in the long run.