Digital Foundry Direct Weekly DF Direct Weekly #240: Steam Machine - Pricing, Specs, VRAM, ARM Ambitions + More
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Nov 17, 2025 Valve's Steam Machine is causing quite a stir, with its pricing and specs still shrouded in mystery. The team debates its potential impact on Microsoft and the gaming landscape. They delve into the details of the Hawk Point 2 CPU and its relevance for gaming. Concerns arise about 8GB of VRAM and the choice of GPU. The conversation also covers challenges like anti-cheat solutions for Linux and the excitement around future Valve IP launches, possibly even Half-Life. Plus, a look at the innovative streaming-first Steam Frame hints at exciting possibilities!
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Steam Machine Targets Mainstream PC Upgrades
- Valve's Steam Machine targets mainstream PC users with a console-like, tidy experience rather than current-gen console parity.
- Pricing decisions will determine whether it expands Steam's addressable market or remains a niche upgrade path.
Plan For Midrange Pricing
- Expect Valve to price the Steam Machine above typical console levels and closer to mid-range PC hardware.
- Consider a $600+ ballpark for the box and $80–$100 for the new controller when planning purchases.
Valve Challenges Microsoft's Platform Position
- Valve's SteamOS hardware push threatens aspects of Microsoft's PC and Windows-based gaming business.
- Steam running Windows games without Windows challenges Windows license and platform dependencies.