Valve May Release a Steam Machine Without Memory or Storage

Analysts and insiders are increasingly discussing how Valve plans to bring its Steam Machine gaming system to market. Against the backdrop of persistent shortages and high component prices, particularly for RAM and SSD storage, a non-standard move is being debated.

According to some sources (Moore's Law is Dead), one option could be the release of a so-called barebones version of the device. Such a kit is expected to include the console itself with a processor and graphics chip, but without RAM, storage, and even without the proprietary controller. The goal is to offer a final price of around $400 (approximately 31,000 rubles), which is significantly lower than a fully-ready system.

This strategy, if implemented, would solve several problems at once: firstly, it would allow Valve to maintain its target price without being dependent on market fluctuations in memory costs, and secondly, it would make the device accessible to those willing to install the components themselves. Users could source these last components from their old devices.

Rumors suggest the company may present three models: a basic 'empty' version, an option with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, and a full-fledged kit with 2TB of storage and a controller. This would reportedly target several price segments at once. Interestingly, even the $400 base version, according to expert estimates, could offer performance higher than that of the Xbox Series S console, creating a unique proposition at the cross between a console and a PC.

If such a strategy is adopted, it could change the approach to pricing gaming systems, shifting the focus to flexibility and upgradeability for users.