Valve cracks down on Steam Controller scalpers, introduces reservation system

Following its original announcement last year, Valve launched the new Steam Controller as the first of its latest hardware products earlier this week. However, the release wasn't the smoothest experience, with store issues and stocks running out almost instantly, barring many users from grabbing a controller.

It looks like scalpers may have had a hand in causing at least some of these issues, as Valve has now announced some new measures to let legitimate customers grab a Steam Controller before the next restock happens.

"Steam Controller launched on May 4th, and while we were happy to see such a high level of interest, the experience for a lot of you trying to buy it was incredibly frustrating," says Valve. "We plan to continue replenishing stock as we get more in, but in the meantime wanted to share changes we're making to improve the purchase experience and to limit reseller activity."

Starting May 8 at 10 am PT, a reservation queue will open up for the new Steam Controller. Once a Steam user reserves a spot, order emails will be sent to them in the order that reservations came through.

However, there are several requirements and limits to this system. First off, the Steam account needs to be one that has made a purchase prior to April 27, 2026. It must also be an account that's in good standing.

Next, Steam Controller reservations will be limited to one per customer, and once a user gets the order email, they only have 72 hours to make the purchase. Those who managed to grab any controllers in the original wave are not eligible for reserving another controller, for now.

Valve confirmed that new stock will be coming to the US and Canada next week, followed by the UK, EU, and Australia in the coming weeks. These will be sent out using the new reservation system. Considering the popularity of these products, Valve may want to look into introducing a similar system when they release the Steam Machine and Steam Frame as well.