Xbox chief Phil Spencer has welcomed Valve’s newly announced Steam Machine, praising it as a positive step for open-platform gaming rather than a competitive threat.
Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer has publicly congratulated Valve on the reveal of its new Steam Machine.
The upcoming console brings full Steam library access to the TV with a traditional console-style form factor and controller – and has already generated major excitement among PC and console players alike.
Posting on X, Spencer praised Valve’s new direction and emphasised the importance of openness across platforms.
He wrote: “Gaming moves forward when players and developers have more ways to play and create, especially across open platforms.
“As one of the largest publishers on Steam, we welcome new options for players to access games everywhere. Congrats on [the] launch.”
Spencer’s comments reflect Microsoft’s broader shift toward platform-agnostic publishing, with major Xbox titles – including Minecraft, Call of Duty, and Diablo – consistently ranking among Steam’s top sellers.
Valve’s new hardware – which will release in 2026 – push extends beyond the Steam Machine itself.
The company also introduced the Steam Frame, a new VR headset for immersive play, and a new Steam Controller – featuring improved haptics, modular thumbsticks, and upgraded precision.
Together, the trio forms Valve’s most ambitious hardware ecosystem since the release of the original Steam Deck in 2022.
With Valve now offering options across handheld, desktop, and living-room setups – and Xbox leaning deeper into cross-platform publishing – the two companies appear more aligned than ever.
Steam Machine: Xbox boss Phil Spencer congratulates Valve on their new console
