The Steam Machine, a console/PC hybrid from Valve, has finally arrived on the scene, and with it comes sticker shock that’s making even the most hardened gamers wince. The entry-level 512GB model will set you back a whopping $1,049, while the 2TB version will cost a cool $1,349. It’s enough to make you wonder if gaming has officially joined the ranks of luxury hobbies like padel and water polo.
The Steam Machine is an ambitious project that aims to bridge the gap between console and PC gaming, but its price tag may be a barrier for some enthusiasts who were hoping for a more affordable option. Valve is clearly targeting the high-end market with this device, which features sleek design and impressive specs. However, at this price point, it’s hard not to think about the countless other options available in the gaming world.
Meanwhile, Ubisoft continues to struggle with layoffs and studio closures. The latest round of cuts has seen 93 workers let go from the company’s San Francisco office, bringing the total number of job losses to over 200 in recent months. This news comes on top of the closures of studios in Winnipeg and Belgrade, which will undoubtedly send shockwaves through the gaming community.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option than the Steam Machine, you might be interested in the Nex Playground, a controller-free device that’s finally available outside the US. The Nex Playground is reminiscent of the Xbox Kinect and offers a unique gaming experience without the need for pricey hardware.
In other news, Grand Theft Auto VI has been priced at $79.99, which is a welcome relief to gamers who were expecting a triple-figure price tag. However, it’s worth noting that physical editions will come with download codes instead of discs, so you’ll be getting an empty box along with your game.
The sales figures for Kingdom Come: Deliverance II are also worth noting, with the open-world RPG selling over 6 million units worldwide in just 16 months. This is a testament to the enduring popularity of this franchise and demonstrates that there’s still life left in the traditional RPG market.
Finally, Microsoft has raised the price of Xbox consoles once again due to the ongoing components crisis caused by AI-obsessed companies like… well, itself. The cheapest Xbox console will now cost $499, which is a hefty price tag for even the most die-hard gamers. It’s hard not to feel a sense of irony here, given Microsoft’s attempts to position itself as a champion of affordable gaming.
As we look to the future of VR and XR, one thing is clear: innovation and experimentation will continue to drive the industry forward. The Steam Machine may be pricey, but it represents an exciting new direction for console/PC hybrids. Meanwhile, the Nex Playground offers a unique take on gaming that’s worth exploring. As always, we’ll be keeping a close eye on these developments and bringing you all the latest news from the world of VR and XR.
Source: Game Developer XR — 2026-06-26