A $1,059 starting price

The 256GB Steam Frame costs $1,059 with controllers included, and the 1TB version runs $1,299. Valve expects the number to spark arguments, same as the Steam Machine.

“Valve has unveiled pricing for its new VR headset, and like the Steam Machine, it's bound to be controversial.”

Accessories cost extra

A charger for the 21.6Wh battery is $29, though any high-power USB-C brick works. Replacement gaskets and cushions run $49, and an ergonomic kit with straps is $59.

Lenses and cameras later

Zenni Optical will sell prescription lenses for the headset and Arcturus is building an RGB camera. Neither company has said what those will cost.

You have to enter a lottery

Sign up by September 17th at 10 AM PT, then Valve randomizes the order. Emails that day tell you if you made the reservation list or the waitlist, with purchase emails starting the 18th.

130 verified standalone games

Since review units went out, the verified standalone library grew to 130 titles. Gamepad mode for 2D games lands in the dashboard, alongside better multi-link streaming and sharper visuals.

Alyx runs, but ships late

Eye tracking and foveated rendering let Valve port Half-Life: Alyx without cutting assets, after a year of Vulkan and SteamVR work. Buyers get a voucher, but the game misses launch day.

“foveated rendering and eye tracking turned out to be a silver bullet”