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Valve has delayed its long-anticipated PC gaming Steam Machines and controller in an effort to refine the user experience ahead of release.
Originally slated for a late 2014 release, Steam Machines – small form-factor console-like desktop PCs designed for gaming – have already been detailed by some of the vendors selected to produce them.
Announcing the delay on the Steam Community website, Valve’s Eric Hope hinted that the extra time was being used to improve the dual touchpad-equipped Steam Controller, which will come bundled with every Machine.
“We’ve been getting emails from the Steam community asking us how our in-development Steam Machines are coming along,” Hope said.
“It’s great that you’re excited about it, and we know you appreciate it when we keep you in the loop on stuff like this, so we wanted to give you all a quick update.
“We’re now using wireless prototype controllers to conduct live playtests, with everyone from industry professionals to die-hard gamers to casual gamers.
“It’s generating a ton of useful feedback, and it means we’ll be able to make the controller a lot better. Of course, it’s also keeping us pretty busy making all those improvements.
"Realistically, we’re now looking at a release window of 2015, not 2014.
“Obviously we’re just as eager as you are to get a Steam Machine in your hands. But our number one priority is making sure that when you do, you’ll be getting the best gaming experience possible. We hope you’ll be patient with us while we get there.
“As always, we love getting feedback on the Steam Machine and Steam controller from the community. After all, you’re the people we want to be happiest when we release them.”
Hope didn’t state whether the delay would affect the free Linux-based SteamOS operating system – on which all of the Steam Machines will run.
