Xbox Head Phil Spencer Welcomes Valve’s New Steam Hardware, notes Resemblance to Past Xbox Rumors
REDMOND, WA – March 22, 2024 – Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer has publicly endorsed Valve’s recently unveiled lineup of gaming hardware, including the Steam Machine and Steam Controller, signaling a positive response to increased competition and platform diversity within the PC gaming space. The announcement comes as Valve prepares to launch its new devices in 2026, building on the success of the Steam Deck handheld.
Spencer’s statement emphasizes the importance of player choice and open platforms, stating, “Gaming moves forward when players and developers have more ways to play and create, especially across open platforms. Expanding access across PC, console, and handheld devices reflects a future built on choice, core values that have guided Xbox’s vision from the start.” He further added, “As one of the largest publishers on Steam, we welcome new options for players to access games everywhere.”
adding a curious note to the conversation, Xbox senior social marketing manager Josh Stein observed a visual similarity between the new Steam Machine and previously circulated, ultimately inaccurate, leaked images of the Xbox Series S.This observation sparked discussion online regarding the design evolution of gaming consoles.
Valve’s new hardware also includes a VR-ready Steam Frame headset. Details on pricing for the entire lineup remain undisclosed.Beyond hardware, Valve is currently in development on a new MOBA game, “Deadlock,” which is undergoing closed alpha testing with no confirmed release date.
Readers can find comprehensive coverage of Valve’s new hardware announcements on GameSpot: https://www.gamespot.com/articles/valve-reveals-new-hardware-lineup-a-controller-compact-gaming-pc-and-vr-ready-headset/1100-6536148/ and updates on “Deadlock” here: https://www.gamespot.com/articles/valves-deadlock-has-a-super-secret-invite-only-alpha-different-from-the-known-invite-only-alpha/1100-6531294/.
