Valve Starts Pre-Orders for New Steam Controller

Valve has reopened pre-orders for the new Steam Controller on May 8, 2026. The controller sold out quickly during the first sales round, leading to high demand. To ensure that the devices go to genuine users, the company has introduced new sales rules aimed at excluding resellers. These new rules are designed to guarantee direct access for end consumers.

Valve has emphasized that the controller is intended for players who wish to use it actively. This measure follows numerous complaints about scalpers affecting the availability of gaming hardware. The Steam Controller is equipped with a variety of features tailored to gamers' needs, including customizable button mappings and improved ergonomics. Feedback from the first sales round has prompted Valve to make some adjustments to optimize the user experience.

Pre-orders are now available through Valve's official website. Customers must register to place a pre-order. This is intended to ensure that only genuine players have the opportunity to purchase the controller. Additionally, Valve has announced that production of the controller will be increased in the coming months to meet demand. The company plans to ship the first orders within six weeks of the pre-order.

This could shorten the wait time for many players eager for the new controller. The decision to combine sales with new rules comes at a time when the gaming industry continues to struggle with supply shortages and high prices. Valve is committed to improving the availability of its products while protecting the interests of end consumers. The introduction of the new Steam Controller could also impact competition in the gaming accessory market. By focusing on the needs of players, Valve may seek to differentiate itself from other manufacturers offering similar products.

Community reactions to the new sales conditions are expected in the coming days. Valve has previously taken similar measures to regulate access to its products. Experiences from the first sales round of the Steam Controller have prompted the company to take proactive steps to improve the situation. The community is eagerly anticipating the implementation of this new sales strategy. Pre-orders are an important step for Valve to regain control over the distribution of its products. The company is committed to maintaining the integrity of the sales process and ensuring that the products reach the right users. The first pre-orders are expected to be delivered by the end of June 2026.