Valve’s long‑awaited Steam Machine, now priced at $789 for the base model and $949 with extra storage, has ignited a firestorm among PC gamers. the announcement comes amid soaring component costs driven by AI data‑center demand and tariffs, making the console’s price higher than the handheld Steam Deck.

Price Shock: $789 Base, $949 Plus Storage

According to the source, the Steam Machine’s base model will cost $789, while the version with increased storage will fetch a staggering $949. This places the console well above the current price of the Steam Deck, a fact that has rattled the community.

Component Inflation: AI, Tariffs, and Supply Crunch

The source attributes the cost surge to AI data‑center demand, tariffs , and other market forces that have driven PC component prices sky‑high. Valve’s announcement, made after these pressures had already taken hold, has therefore been criticized as untimely.

Gamers Question Viability: “Will It Even Come Out?”

Reddit users have voiced their concerns, with one user asking, “I’m really wondering if it’ll even come out at this point.” Another sarrcastically noted that the console is priced at $1 ,000+ for a device only slightly more powerful than 8th‑gen platforms, targeting a demographic that already owns massive Steam libraries on more capable hardware.

Community Reaction and Future Outlook

The source reports that a newsletter has been launched to provide focused coverage and analysis of pricing, PC component market forces, and community reaction. If the current price becomes the norm, the broader PC market could see significant price hikes. The rollout of a controller and its impact on the Steam Machine’s timeline remain uncertain.