On Oct 12, 2022, Valve launched an up to date model of its well-liked handheld gaming PC, the Steam Deck, with an improved OLED display screen, longer battery life, and different enhancements over the unique.
Based on a current PC Gamer report, many had been apprehensive that Valve would face related stock shortages with the OLED mannequin because it did when the unique Steam Deck launched in February 2022. Nonetheless, Valve appears to have ready adequately for the OLED launch day this time round.
When the unique Steam Deck turned accessible for preorder, inventory bought out inside hours. New orders had been positioned on an intensive reservation listing, with clients ready months to obtain their units. Valve underestimated the demand, leading to irritating delays for keen clients.
Fortuitously, that has not been the case with the Steam Deck OLED. The estimated supply dates for the brand new $549 and $649 fashions nonetheless present solely a 3-5 enterprise day wait. The provision suggests Valve stockpiled models forward of launch to fulfill demand. The cheaper $399 unique Steam Deck remains to be available for quick supply.
Valve spokesperson Jay Shaw mentioned the corporate hoped to keep away from the earlier provide points. “We’re confidently hoping that every little thing holds up nicely and folks aren’t slipping into reservations for months and months out,” Shaw informed the media earlier this month.
That preparation appears to have paid off on launch day. Other than minor hiccups with fee processing and an OLED delay in Taiwan, most consumers have reported a clean buying expertise with fast supply estimates.
Valve nonetheless advises they don’t seem to be able to announce a full sequel to the Steam Deck but. For now, the OLED mannequin offers the perfect Steam Deck expertise accessible with its attractive show and refined design.
Photograph by Rafael Guajardo.
