Valve doesn't want the success of its portable console (we already know it's a PC) to get out of hand. On paper, the reservation phase that began last summer suggests that Gabe Newell's men have finally found the key to having a hardware product in their catalog capable of tipping the balance towards the field of games. computer, following in the footsteps of what Nintendo has achieved with Switch since 2017. And one of the key elements for Steam deck mark an era happens to share in that success to the community, to the modder, to the handymen.
Valve releases Steam Deck blueprints
In a move that might come as surprising as it is so rare in the video game industry (and the hardware industry in particular), Valve has officially published all the CAD files that will allow any user to develop their own Steam Deck case and, consequently, turn their design into reality to boast of having an exclusive and unique model in their hands.
In the official message Valve makes it quite clear and shows the facilities it offers to its potential users, since it states that "for all handymen, modders, accessory manufacturers or people who just want to 3D print a Steam Deck to see how do you […] we have published [the] CAD files of the external casing for download«. If you are interested in tinkering with the machine (virtually) you have the link from which you can start your particular project here. In this way, when accessing the official site of the North Americans, you will be able to download the plans of the "external shell (surface topology) of Steam Deck" with STP, STL models and DWG reference drawings. All, licensed under Creative Commons.
Valve's house of casings?
It is evident that after this decision by Valve it is very clear that the console can be customized with covers of infinite colors and designs (as in the case of PS5) that we will not only be able to manufacture ourselves, but also buy within a future market that is already beginning to appear on the horizon, especially in view of next February 28, the moment in which the purchases will begin to be sent. first units for users who complete the reservation.
If you are one of the lucky ones who has been able to get hold of one of these Steam Decks within the first available shipments, you should keep an eye on your email inbox and Valve's notification in case they offer you the opportunity to close the purchase. You will have three days to complete the payment And, yes, you will not be able to change the model you chose unless you want to return to the end of the waiting list. This entire process will begin on the same day, February 25, starting at 19:00 p.m. in the afternoon (in Spain), taking advantage of the time difference with the West coast of the US, which is the reference that companies located there usually take for this type of process.
Good news for all the tinkerers, modders, accessory manufacturers, or folks who just want to 3D print a Steam Deck to see how it feels: We've published CAD files of the external shell for download: https://t.co/pSDhTfDL9n
- Steam Deck (@OnDeck) February 11, 2022