Steam
News, coverage and analysis tracking Steam across the outlets.
Latest coverage
Steam Hardware Survey finally shows AMD GPUs properly, and the results are unexpected
The latest Steam Hardware Survey for June 2024 now accurately reflects AMD GPU usage, showing a significant increase in AMD's overall market share to 19.1%. While AMD's Radeon RX 9070 XT is the most popular AMD card, Nvidia continues to dominate the top positions with its GeForce RTX series, particularly the RTX 3060.
'Great job, scammers': Valve is officially done with Steam physical gift cards thanks to fraudsters — and it could be the start of a frustrating trend
Valve is discontinuing its physical Steam gift cards due to widespread fraud and scams. Scammers have adapted to exploit the system, leading Valve to make the difficult decision to cease restocking physical cards once current inventory runs out. This move has frustrated users who will now primarily rely on digital gift cards.
Valve confirms it won't restock Steam Gift Cards
Valve has confirmed it will no longer restock physical Steam Gift Cards at retail locations, with current stock expected to run out by the end of 2026. The decision comes as scammers have increasingly exploited gift cards as a method for fraudulent activities, a problem Valve has been unable to fully mitigate despite various countermeasures.
Valve Discontinuing Physical Steam Gift Cards Because of Scammers
Valve is discontinuing the sale of physical Steam gift cards after 14 years due to persistent issues with scammers. Despite efforts to combat fraud, the company found it impossible to keep up with fraudulent schemes. Physical gift cards will cease production, and existing stock will be depleted by the end of 2026, with Valve exclusively offering digital gift cards through its storefront moving forward.
Danger Zone
Valve is discontinuing physical Steam gift cards due to their misuse by scammers. The company cited instances where scammers used these cards to defraud individuals, such as tricking them into believing they needed to purchase gift cards to bail out relatives.
Physical Steam Gift Cards Are Being Killed Off Due To Rampant Scammers
Valve is discontinuing the distribution of physical Steam gift cards due to rampant scams, with retailers expected to run out of stock by 2026. The company has attempted various anti-scam measures but found them ineffective. Digital gift cards will continue to be available, and existing physical cards will remain valid.
Physical Steam gift cards are being ended by Valve because scammers keep using them to trick people
Valve is discontinuing physical Steam gift cards due to their frequent use by scammers to defraud individuals. Despite various implemented restrictions and warnings, scammers have continued to adapt, leading Valve to make the decision to end the retail gift card program. Physical gift cards currently in stock are expected to sell out by the end of 2026, after which digital gift cards will be the only option.
Valve to no longer offer physical gift cards due to scammers
Valve is discontinuing physical Steam gift cards due to ongoing issues with scammers who exploit them. While current stock will be sold off, Valve will not be restocking retailers and expects them to be out of stock by the end of 2026. Digital Steam gift cards will remain available.
With a lot of events and announcements this week - Valve make it easier to follow
Valve has launched a new Steam Summer Showcase page to help users track the numerous gaming events and announcements occurring during the Summer Game Fest period. The article lists several upcoming showcases, including The Mix Summer Game Showcase, Black Voices in Gaming, Latin American Games Showcase, Summer Game Fest, PC Gaming Show, and more, highlighting the dense schedule of reveals.
Ludeo Opens Indie Dev Program Offering Instant Playable Game Discovery, Creator Grants, and Up to $10K for Top Campaigns
Ludeo has launched its Indie Program, an initiative designed to help independent game developers leverage creator content for instant game discovery. The program allows players to jump directly into playable gameplay moments from creator clips without downloads. Indie developers can apply until June 15, with top campaigns eligible for up to $50,000 in creator marketing support.
New Windows 11 update will actually make your PC faster
A new Windows 11 update, KB5089573, is designed to improve PC performance by optimizing application launches and core system experiences. Microsoft is implementing 'Low Latency Profiles' to boost CPU frequency during app opens, potentially making them up to 40% faster. The update also includes reliability improvements and aims to bring Windows 11 performance closer to that of SteamOS.
How To Play Non-Steam Games With A Steam Controller On PC
This guide explains how to use a Steam Controller with games not purchased through Steam on PC. It details adding non-Steam executables to your library and using tools like UWPhook for Universal Windows Platform (UWP) applications, enabling Steam Input and the Steam Overlay for a unified gaming experience.
Weekend PC Download Deals: Steam Deckbuilders Fest
Steam is hosting a Deckbuilders Fest, offering special download deals on PC. This event allows players to assemble their decks and engage in gaming this weekend.
How to reserve a Steam Controller
Valve has opened reservations for the Steam Controller, allowing Steam users to secure one of the upcoming input devices. Further details on pricing and availability are expected soon.
Steam Controller (2026) – 15 Important Things to Know Before Buying
Valve's new Steam Controller is set to launch on May 4th, offering significant improvements over its 2015 predecessor. Key features include responsive TMR sticks, dual trackpads, Grip Sense gyro, and extensive customization via the Steam Input Configurator. Priced at $99, it is designed primarily for Steam users and is not compatible with existing consoles.
The Steam Controller Is Already Being Scalped For Triple The Price
Valve's new Steam Controller sold out immediately upon release, leading to scalpers reselling the device for triple its retail price of $99 on platforms like eBay. Valve has acknowledged the high demand and is working to increase stock, but potential buyers are advised to act quickly to avoid inflated prices. The controller is designed for use with the entire Steam library across various platforms including PC, Steam Deck, and Steam Machine.
Steam Controller "ran out faster than we anticipated", says Valve as it pledges more stock
Valve has acknowledged that the Steam Controller sold out much faster than anticipated, leading to stock shortages. The company stated on X that they are working to replenish inventory and will provide an update on the expected timeline soon. The controller, priced at £85, was designed to work across the Steam ecosystem and was announced alongside the Steam Machine.
Valve’s New Steam Controller is Available Now
Valve's new Steam Controller is now available for purchase at $99, though availability may vary by region. Early reviews praise its utility, particularly the trackpads and grip-enabled gyros, and its seamless connectivity with PC and Steam devices. The controller is optimized for the Steam library and Steam Machine, but does not feature replaceable sticks or compatibility with other launchers or consoles.
Issues and Activism
An independent developer claims that Steam is blocking their game due to an intellectual property infringement claim, despite the IP belonging to the developer themselves. This situation highlights ongoing issues with IP disputes on digital storefronts.
Steam Controller Release Date Announced
Valve announced the Steam Controller will be released on May 4th for $99, featuring advanced motion controls, trackpads, and customizable inputs. The controller is designed to work with Valve's entire Steam ecosystem, including PC, Steam Deck, and Steam Machine, offering broad compatibility through Bluetooth, USB, and a proprietary wireless connection.