We wondered if Valve’s announcement about a significant hike in prices for both models of the Steam Deck OLED was going to bring some backlash yesterday. Well, it turns out that we’ve been served a slice of humble pie, as the portable behemoth is sold out yet again despite the heftier price tag. And that’s within twenty-four hours of the console going back on sale.
We’re surprised, to be sure, but we’re also suspicious that Valve might be taking a clever approach to its inventory management to ensure there’s enough demand for the console before it returns to sale again. We could be wrong, though, as this latest batch has clearly found enough takers, and fast.
It’s going to be an interesting few months ahead for Valve and its console as it navigates component shortages and their rising costs. However, there might be nothing to worry about if the Steam Deck continues to be as desirable as it currently seems to be among consumers.
For the moment, however, those among you who weren’t able to get their hands on one might have a long wait ahead until the next batch becomes available. And if you’re waiting for the Steam Machine, it might be an even more costly proposition, based on rumors.
