Valve is making some subtle but significant preparations on Steam, as indicated by recent updates to its Steam Deck product page on the Steam store. According to SteamDB, the company has begun updating backend package information for the Steam Deck, a move widely interpreted as a precursor to officially opening pre-orders for the highly anticipated virtual reality headset.
Product Bundles Take Shape
While official details remain under wraps, the updated information suggests at least two distinct base versions of the Steam Deck will be available. These initial offerings are expected to include the headset itself and controllers. Beyond these standard packages, Valve appears poised to offer additional bundles catering to different user needs. One potential bundle includes an extra battery pack, crucial for extended VR sessions. Another, more comprehensive option, is rumored to feature what’s being called the “Goopy Kit.” This ergonomic accessory package is understood to comprise items like controller wrist straps, a top headband for improved comfort and stability, and an extended facial interface or light blocker.
Anticipation Builds for Launch Date
The exact launch date for the Steam Deck continues to be a subject of speculation among enthusiasts and industry watchers. Current estimates place the potential pre-order window anywhere from September 7th to September 14th. These predictions are largely based on Valve’s historical patterns, particularly the way product page information was handled during the launch of the Steam Machine. It is important to note, however, that these dates are speculative and not official confirmations from Valve.
Reservation System Possible
Adding to the pre-launch buzz, there are indications that the Steam Deck might adopt a reservation system, similar to the one previously used for the Steam Machine. This would mean users would need to place a reservation before they could proceed with a purchase. Valve has yet to officially confirm this mechanism, leaving many eager potential buyers waiting for concrete announcements.
The ongoing updates to the Steam store backend signal Valve’s determined push towards making the Steam Deck available to consumers. As more information surfaces and official announcements are made, the VR community will be keenly watching for the final details regarding pricing, specific bundle contents, and the official pre-order and release dates.
