Valve is facing mounting pressure to clarify how customers will buy its upcoming Steam Machine console after the launch of the new Steam Controller descended into server crashes, rapid sell-outs and scalping across multiple markets, including Australia.

The A$149 Steam Controller sold out within hours locally this week after Australian pre-orders opened at 3AM AEST, mirroring scenes in the US and Europe where Valve’s storefront reportedly buckled under heavy demand.

Some overseas regions sold out in less than 30 minutes, while scalpers quickly listed controllers online at inflated prices.

The chaotic rollout has intensified concerns around the Steam Machine launch, which still lacks a confirmed release date or ordering process amid ongoing component shortages and rising memory costs.

Unlike the original Steam Deck launch, which used a reservation queue system to stagger purchases and reduce scalping, Valve initially offered the Steam Controller through a traditional first-come, first-served online sale.

The result was widespread checkout failures, overloaded servers and customers losing orders despite having products in their shopping carts.

Valve has now responded by introducing a reservation queue for future Steam Controller orders in the US, Canada, UK, EU and Australia. Buyers will reserve a place in line, receive an invitation email once stock becomes available, and have 72 hours to complete their purchase.

The move is widely seen as a test run for the Steam Machine launch.

Adding to speculation, reports suggest Valve recently imported roughly 50 tonnes of Steam Machine hardware into the US – estimated to equal around 20,000 consoles – potentially signalling limited initial supply.

Valve this week moved closer to enabling HDMI 2.1 support for the Steam Machine after progress emerged in AMD’s Linux driver development, potentially paving the way for features including 4K 120Hz gaming, HDR and variable refresh rates.

Leaks suggest the Steam Machine could retail between approximately $920 and $1,000 AUD, placing it above the PlayStation 5 in price.