Xbox’s Phil Spencer Praises Valve’s New Steam Deck Hardware
▼ Summary
– Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer welcomes Valve’s new Steam Frame and Steam Machine devices, emphasizing that more gaming options benefit players and developers.
– Spencer stated that expanding access across devices aligns with Xbox’s vision of choice and noted Microsoft is a major publisher on Steam.
– A senior Xbox marketing manager observed that the new Steam Machine resembles leaked 2019 designs of the Xbox Series S, which were not real.
– Valve announced a Steam Controller, a cube-shaped Steam Machine for TV gaming, and a Steam Frame VR headset, all launching in 2026 with pricing unannounced.
– Valve is developing a new MOBA called Deadlock, which is in testing but has no release date or full details yet.
Microsoft Gaming’s CEO Phil Spencer has publicly endorsed Valve’s freshly unveiled gaming hardware lineup, expressing strong support for the new Steam Frame and Steam Machine products. Spencer emphasized that the gaming industry thrives when players and developers enjoy expanded options, particularly on open platforms that encourage widespread participation. He pointed out that increasing accessibility across PC, console, and handheld systems aligns perfectly with Xbox’s long-standing commitment to consumer choice. Spencer also noted that as a major publisher on Steam, Microsoft welcomes any innovation that lets gamers enjoy titles wherever they prefer.
Josh Stein, a senior social marketing manager at Xbox, observed that the design of the new Steam Machine looks strikingly similar to leaked images from 2019 that were falsely rumored to depict the Xbox Series S. On social media, Stein shared a lighthearted post comparing the two, captioning it with a nod to the cube-like aesthetic and the earlier speculation.
Valve’s latest announcements cover three distinct hardware categories: an updated Steam Controller, a compact cubic Steam Machine for playing PC games on television screens, and the Steam Frame, a virtual reality headset. These products build upon the momentum generated by the successful Steam Deck handheld, with a planned market release in 2026. Specific pricing details have not yet been disclosed.
In related news, Valve is also developing a completely new multiplayer online battle arena game, currently known as Deadlock. Although the project has entered a testing phase, the company has not shared a launch date or comprehensive information about the game.
(Source: Gamespot)
