Dbrand Reveals Steam Deck Companion Cube Case
▼ Summary
– Dbrand is creating a full Companion Cube enclosure for the Steam Machine, not just a skin, as confirmed by CEO Adam Ijaz.
– The company is currently registering interest and plans to launch the product in early 2026 after refining details over the next month.
– Pricing is not yet finalized due to the need for custom engineering and detailed finishing techniques to achieve the iconic weathering and panel wear.
– Dbrand may explore similar enclosure concepts for other hardware in the future, with possibilities like a GabeCube or microwave being considered as skins instead.
– The author speculates about potential future skins, such as one resembling Gordon Freeman’s face or referencing Half-Life 3, though these are not confirmed.
Many gamers likely expected Dbrand to release a simple weighted Companion Cube skin for Valve’s newly announced Steam Machine. However, the company is taking its Portal homage much further, developing a complete Companion Cube enclosure for the system. Dbrand CEO Adam Ijaz confirmed in an email that this is not merely a skin but a full protective shell designed to transform the console’s appearance.
Ijaz stated, “Even after accounting for the removable faceplate and air intake requirements, we’re confident it’s fully viable.” He noted that the team will refine details over the next month and is currently gauging consumer interest, with plans to launch the product in early 2026. Interested customers can join a mailing list on the Dbrand website to receive updates about the Companion Cube enclosure.
Take a look at the striking concept image of the Companion Cube Steam Machine enclosure below:
Detailing the development process, Ijaz explained that the enclosure requires significant custom engineering and finishing work. “Achieving the proper dimensional geometry, such as jutted-out bumper corners and accurate topography, is only part of the challenge,” he said. “The iconic weathering and panel wear effects will likely demand fine paint application and detailing techniques that go well beyond standard mass-production methods.” Final pricing will be determined once the company advances further into tooling and development.
When asked if Dbrand would create a similar enclosure for the Nintendo GameCube, a question posed more on impulse than expectation, Ijaz responded that it was “possible.” However, he noted that some concepts, like a “GabeCube” or a microwave, work better as skins rather than full enclosures. He added that Dbrand intends to explore more of those types of ideas as the Steam Machine hardware nears its Q1 launch.
Looking ahead, it’s fun to imagine what other themed accessories Dbrand might offer. Perhaps a skin that makes the upcoming Steam Frame resemble Gordon Freeman’s face, or one boldly displaying “HALF-LIFE 3 CONFIRMED” across the headset’s front glass or the new Steam Controller. These are just playful suggestions, but they highlight the creative potential for future collaborations and designs.
(Source: IGN)
