Valve launches reservation system to fix sold-out Steam Controller shortage
▼ Summary
– Valve announced a reservation programme for the Steam Controller beginning 8th May, allowing users to secure a place in line for when stock returns.
– Strict limitations on the reservation programme include one controller per user, ineligibility for previous buyers, and a 72-hour purchase window after receiving the order email.
– Reservations will be fulfilled next week in the US and Canada, and in following weeks in the UK, Europe, and Australia.
– Valve implemented these measures to limit reseller activity after the initial launch on 4th May caused frustration due to high demand and scalping.
– A review of the new Steam Controller (rechargeable, more input options, sturdier design) found it a solid upgrade but noted it may not be the best choice for most at £85 compared to traditional controllers.
A reservation system is now live for Valve’s premium-priced (£85) Steam Controller, following a rapid sellout that left many would-be buyers empty-handed. The program opens today, 8th May, at 10am Pacific Time (6pm UK time), allowing customers to secure a spot in the order queue for when the controller is restocked. Valve has not provided a specific timeline for replenishment, noting in a Steam update that inventory availability will vary by region.
To combat scalpers who previously snapped up stock and resold it at inflated prices on eBay, the reservation program includes strict eligibility requirements. These measures, which critics argue should have been in place from the start, include: a limit of one Steam Controller per user; exclusion for anyone who already purchased a controller through Steam; a 72-hour window to complete the purchase after receiving the order email; a Steam account in “good standing” ; and a requirement that the account made a purchase before 27th April 2026.
Valve acknowledged the frustration surrounding the initial launch on 4th May. “While we were happy to see such a high level of interest, the experience for a lot of you trying to buy it was incredibly frustrating,” the company stated. “We plan to continue replenishing stock as we get more in, but in the meantime wanted to share changes we’re making to improve the purchase experience and to limit reseller activity. Beginning May 8th at 10am Pacific, we’re opening a reservation queue for Steam Controller. Once you reserve, your place in line will be saved. When we go back in stock, order emails will be sent in the same order that reservations were made.”
Reservations will begin being fulfilled next week in the US and Canada, with the UK, Europe, and Australia following in the subsequent weeks.
Our testing of the new Steam Controller found it to be “better in almost every way” than the original 2015 model. It now features a rechargeable battery, expanded input options, improved sticks and buttons, and a more durable overall design. The signature touchpad controls for mouse-like input return, though the new placement didn’t fully convince our reviewer. “It’s a rock-solid upgrade,” wrote Matt. “But for everyone else, at £85, it’s unlikely to be the best choice compared to traditional controllers.”
(Source: Eurogamer.net)
