Valve launches Steam Controller reservation system after “incredibly frustrating” launch

Steam is adjusting how customers can purchase the Steam Controller. High demand right after its release caused many people to be frustrated and led to it being out of stock.

The new controller became available on May 4th, and Valve reported strong demand, though many people struggled to buy one before it quickly sold out. To make it easier for everyone to get a controller and to discourage scalpers, Valve is now implementing a reservation system.

Starting May 8th at 10 AM Pacific Time, you’ll be able to reserve a Steam Controller directly through Steam. Valve will be using a reservation system, similar to the one they used for the Steam Deck, to manage orders. You’ll be notified by email when your reservation is ready to ship, and emails will be sent out in the order reservations were made as more controllers become available.

Steam adds reservation queue to fight scalpers

Valve announced that the new reservation system will come with a few limits. Each person can only reserve one Steam Controller, and those who’ve already bought one can’t reserve another right now.

After you get an order confirmation email, you have 72 hours to finish buying your game on Steam. If you don’t, you’ll lose your place in line.

To reduce activity from resellers, the company has added requirements for reserving a controller. To place a reservation, users need a Steam account that’s in good standing and must have made at least one purchase on Steam before April 27, 2026.

Valve announced that how quickly they restock the Steam Deck will differ depending on where you are. People in the US and Canada should start receiving pre-ordered units next week, but those in the UK, Europe, and Australia will need to wait several more weeks for their orders to ship.

The Steam Controller immediately became popular online, selling out quickly after its release. Soon after, people began reselling it at higher prices on sites like eBay.

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2026-05-07 21:48