The good news is that Valve has now released official Windows drivers for the Steam Machine, reinforcing that it's still a PC at heart. If you want to install Windows instead of SteamOS, you can, giving you the freedom to do pretty much whatever you want with the Gabecube that you own.
As Valve puts it: "Steam Deck and Steam Machine are PCs, and other applications and OSes can be installed" — there is a catch, however, as Steam hardware still doesn't officially support dual-booting, which may or may not be a deal-breaker for some.
I don't even own a Steam Machine, but I would have liked that flexible OS option if I did. Still, despite this, it's great to see how open Valve is. Providing official Windows drivers is a nice touch, and it's something the company already does for the Steam Deck.
Personally, I wanted Steam Machine to enter the market and provide serious competition for the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Unfortunately, that seems to have been wishful thinking on my part, and again, that's through no fault of Valve's. Current market conditions have pushed memory prices to the point where companies are even facing lawsuits over allegations of price-fixing and intentionally restricting supply to keep prices high.
Don't worry, though. I'm sure things can't get much worse — except they can, as I'm sure we're all aware; the memory crisis isn't going anywhere, and we, the consumers, are having to pay the price. But let me know your thoughts on running Windows on Steam Machine by leaving a comment and taking part in our poll below:
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Steam Machine for 2026
Valve has released official Windows drivers for Steam Machine, allowing owners to install Microsoft's OS.
Steam's more-than-generous refund policy is under scrutiny from the developer behind Paddle Paddle Paddle, a game heavily inspired by the "Foddian" genre. These games are designed specifically to frustrate players and are often popular with content creators because of the reactions they generate. I actually own Paddle Paddle Paddle myself and have played it with a friend. It's a co-op game where you paddle a boat through increasingly frustrating obstacles as you make your way downstream.
After spotting a review that read, "GREAT GAME, finished within 1:40 hrs (refunded)," the developer took to X to criticize Steam's refund policy, writing:
"This should not be possible@Steam Would be cool if you could finally do something about your refund policy... Got dozens of reviews like that and 21% refund rate even though the Reviews are 90% very positive... Thats over 55,000 Refunds btw..."
Many reviews, including some that recommend the game, openly admit they completed it and then refunded it because they finished within the two-hour window. That does feel a little disingenuous, especially if they genuinely enjoyed the experience. Since the developer spoke out, however, some users have also started leaving negative reviews that appear to focus just as much on his comments as the game itself.
One user wrote:
"Not fun, Short, Sloppy. Beat it under 2 hours and would refund if I could but waited too long to play it, you should if you can"
Another added:
"The Dev keeps crying about his game getting refunded on X despite making "millions" out of a sloppy effort"
Having actually played the game myself and genuinely enjoying it, I decided to keep it, and I do think the developer should look at releasing the game on consoles like Xbox or Nintendo Switch. I will say, though, overall, I think Steam's refund policy is a good one, even if this situation highlights one of its weaknesses.
Personally, I don't think players should be able to complete an entire game and then immediately refund it. That said, I'm not entirely sure how Valve could solve that problem without creating new ones. One idea could be tying refunds to achievements, but that would simply encourage some developers to avoid adding achievements that mark the end of a game.
Perhaps Valve could instead adjust the refund window based on a game's typical completion time or even its price. For example, lower-priced games that can reasonably be completed in a short sitting could have a one-hour refund window instead of two. Even that isn't a perfect solution, though, and it's easy to see how developers could try to design around whatever rules Valve introduces.
Those are just my thoughts, though. I'd love to hear what you think, so let me know in the comments and be sure to take part in our poll above.
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Paddle Paddle Paddle promotional artwork featuring two players rowing through rough seas while dodging hazards in the challenging co-op game.
In case you didn't notice (I'm joking, because you definitely did), PC gaming has become a painfully expensive hobby. Amazon Prime Day is supposed to help offset that with massive discounts, but does it really count when it brings components back to near-MSRP levels? We take what we can get, I suppose.
Either way, it's difficult to recommend building your own PC from scratch right now. If you've never tried it, the anxiety of handling now-overinflated RAM will surely feel worse than ever — and that's one of the easiest parts to install. On the bright side, iBUYPOWER has some merciful discounts on pre-builts.
Never owned a gaming PC before? Start here. These are entry-level parts, but you still get 1TB of storage and enough upgradeable memory (RAM) to get you going. iBUYPOWER throws in a mouse and keyboard, as usual, so this is a great starter build!View Deal
Got some extra budget to spare? Doubling your storage memory puts you in the modern "sweet spot" of 32GB RAM, and AMD's Radeon 9060 XT with 16GB of VRAM will run modern AAA games more comfortably. For under $2,000, this is a steal.View Deal
If you're already well-versed in PC gaming and you'd rather lean on DLSS upscaling, then this RTX 5060 Ti build will be more attractive for an extra $50. As graphical demands increase, NVIDIA's tech will feel more like a cost-saving crutch.View Deal
And if we're going all-out, why not go for Intel's powerful 270K Plus CPU in a variation of the Trace X I reviewed earlier this year? The RTX 5070 Ti GPU is the perfect middle ground without burning money away, and you won't struggle to run any games. A monster.View Deal
A pre-built gaming PC is just easier
iBUYPOWER's RDY Trace X is an all-out rig with a fish tank vibe. (Image credit: Ben Wilson | Windows Central)
Yeah, I might get some pushback from die-hard gaming PC builders, but I don't have any qualms with a pre-built option. I've been there — installing a CPU for the first time, losing my mind about installing thermal paste correctly (just a pea-sized amount, guys), and stressed about RAM profiles alongside other BIOS options. You don't have to do any of it.
Installing and setting up Windows 11 is the same wherever you go, and iBUYPOWER's decision to ship graphics cards (GPUs) separately isn't as intimidating as it looks. They slot in just like an old-school game cartridge and hold in place with a few screws. That's really all there is to it, and each rig comes with clear instructions anyway. I'd know, I tested a Trace X PC earlier this year. Treat yourself, PC gaming is the best.
How long do these iBUYPOWER deals last?
The "4th of July Mega Sale" ends on July 6, 2026, and is already live. iBUYPOWER runs limited-time deals on coupons and extras throughout the event, but the pre-built gaming PCs should remain available while stocks last.
Are any iBUYPOWER deals in Amazon Prime Day?
iBUYPOWER has a dedicated store on Amazon, and lists a collection of its pre-built gaming PCs there, too. If you're an Amazon Prime member, it's worth checking listings on both storefronts to see which works best for you.
The Steam Machine is getting a fair amount of heat due to its $1,049 price, but no matter how you look at it, Valve's new device is a particularly powerful mini PC.
Here's the rub. Not everyone needs that much power or wants to pay that much, which is where the Windows mini PC market comes into play.
Amazon Prime Day has knocked prices down considerably on a bunch of our favorite mini PCs, and while they won't match the Steam Machine's discrete graphics, they're still fully capable of running a wide range of games AND Windows 11, no extra effort necessary. Just plug in an HDMI cord, hook it up to your TV, and start gaming.
Prime Day wraps up today, June 26, and most of these mini PC deals are expected to expire before the weekend. I'm in fact already seeing some retailers run out of stock. Translation? If you see something you can use, you should grab it before it's gone.
This is the best sub-$600 mini PC I could find that features a Ryzen 9 CPU and Radeon 780M integrated graphics. 16GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB M.2 SSD help sweeten the deal.
"The SER9 Pro is another all-round excellent mini PC from Beelink, now powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 H 255. The GPU is very good for an integrated one, capable of handling most games on medium to high settings at 1080p, though some really demanding games will struggle."
Those who prefer Intel can land this Core Ultra 9 185H CPU with integrated Arc graphics that closely match those of AMD's Radeon 780M. Plenty of RAM and storage are a great perk.
Extra RAM and storage plus a Ryzen 9 CPU make this mini PC particularly attractive, and the integrated Radeon 780M graphics do a decent job of running most modern games that aren't particularly demanding.
How do these discounted mini PCs compare to the Steam Machine's performance?
The Steam Machine boasts a respectable amount of gaming power thanks to a discrete AMD GPU with 8GB of VRAM. (Image credit: Valve)
The Steam Machine is causing a ruckus in the tech world, namely due to its price-to-performance ratio now that reviews have gone out into the wild. It's true that you can build a full-size gaming PC or buy a pre-built gaming PC for less money and with superior power, but what about a mini PC that's a closer match to the form factor?
Well, that's where the real genius of Valve's device comes into play. It is indeed capable of delivering quite a bit of gaming performance in a super compact form factor, something that most of the mini PCs on the market for a similar or lower price simply aren't capable of doing.
The Steam Machine's discrete custom AMD Radeon GPU with 8GB of VRAM is fairly close to a desktop-class AMD Radeon RX 7600 card, which the integrated graphics in most mini PCs can't touch.
Regardless, at $1,049, the Steam Machine isn't for everyone. There are plenty of PC users who just want a compact, capable PC that runs Windows 11 without breaking a sweat, while at the same time having capabilities to handle lighter games. That's where these great mini PCs excel.
The Beelink SER9 Pro is one of our favorite mini PCs on the market, and it's on sale during Prime Day. (Image credit: Windows Central / Zac Bowden)
The mini PCs I've highlighted in this roundup all have an integrated AMD Radeon 780M GPU or a comparable Intel Arc integrated GPU. I can't stress enough that these GPUs will not match the Steam Machine's gaming power.
However, the Radeon 780M will still do a bang-up job of gaming, and for a lot less money in a significantly smaller package, often with more RAM and storage.
Just how powerful is the integrated GPU? It will effortlessly run esports games like League of Legends, Counter-Strike 2, Valorant, and DOTA 2 at 1080p, hitting somewhere between 60 and 90 FPS with medium to high settings. Games like Fortnite, Minecraft, and Roblox are in the same boat.
I'd venture to say that the Radeon 780M is an indie game superstar, and those who prefer roguelikes, platformers, deck builders, puzzle games, and simulators will have no issues.
Those hoping to play demanding AAA titles like Cyberpunk 2077, Hogwarts Legacy, Baldur's Gate 3, and others will find that the Radeon 780M can get the job done at 1080p, albeit with lower frame rates and with AMD's FSR enabled. If you're going to mainly focus on AAA games, I'd recommend checking out pre-built desktop PCs with discrete graphics.
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Sim games are getting more mainstream, and I'm happy to see it. Euro Truck Simulator 2 is one of the most (surprisingly) addictive games I've played in recent memory, and Amazon Prime Day sales are making it easier for me to recommend, alongside its American Truck Simulator sibling. It's a PC-only title for now, but Xbox and PlayStation releases have been teased for a while.
So, if you wanted to drive a virtual truck around a representation of your home state or your favorite European country, what exactly do you need to get started? Well, you can play either game with a mouse and keyboard, but any kind of controller makes it a better experience. Here's what I recommend for a basic steering wheel setup, with optional extras and higher-end alternatives.
The absolute basics: A wheel and pedals
Thrustmaster already made an entry-level wheel (T128), but its TMX regularly undercuts it with deals like this. This comes with an accelerator and brake pedal, and enough buttons to handle common truck controls.
You'll rarely see coverage of racing wheels without the G29 mentioned, and it's for a good reason. Logitech makes great wheels, and while this one is built for PlayStation, it's totally compatible with trucking on Windows.
Now we're talking. If you don't need to hear my pitch on truck simulators because you're already in the know, then MOZA's bundle of its TSW truck wheel, direct drive base, desk clamp, and pedals is the ultimate option.
Most trucks in the game offer an automatic gearbox, but there's a real sense of satisfaction when you shift through gears yourself, even if this doesn't really cover the size of a real-world truck's gearbox. It's still fun.
"Travel across Europe as king of the road, a trucker who delivers important cargo across impressive distances! With dozens of cities to explore, your endurance, skill and speed will all be pushed to their limits."
Yes, any peripheral made for the Xbox with a USB connection generally offers even more features on a Windows PC. Steering wheels are simply a set of analog and digital inputs translated to game functions with a driver from the manufacturer's website. Most games on Xbox consoles allow you to customize button functions on racing wheels, but a PC will offer even more personalization.
Yes, Amazon's rivals are running competing events, including Best Buy's "Tech Fest", Newegg's "FantasTech Sale", and Walmart's "Deals & More", which all end on June 28, 2026. Each retailer can offer its own membership perks, such as My Best Buy Plus / Total and Walmart Plus, and it's important to remember that Amazon does not always offer the best deal during Prime Day. Windows Central will compare prices across retailers, so you can choose the best fit for you.
Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.
MOZA TSW Truck Wheel with Euro Truck Simulator 2 on PC
I never would have pictured myself as a virtual trucking fanatic, but somehow, here we are.
I recently got into playing Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, and I get it. I really do. There's a massive dedicated community around this Microsoft franchise, and even as a beginner I see why. The sky is the limit, and yes, pun intended.
You can quite happily get along and have a great time playing on PC, Xbox or PS5 with just a controller, but I guarantee the bug will catch and catch quickly. Before long you'll want to up the ante and make the experience more realistic. I'm not saying you'll build a full cockpit, not right away at least! But you'll probably be yearning for aflight stick, yoke, maybe even some rudder pedals.
If you're looking for a game to really sink some time into, this is one of the best decisions you could make, even if you've never thought it would be for you. While Amazon Prime Dayis going on, it is also a perfect time to jump in with both feet and get yourself some good hardware to get started with or upgrade an existing setup.
For those with an Xbox Series X or Series S console — the Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flight is the gateway to the best Flight Simulator experience. Turtle Beach has singlehandedly delivered a monumental leap in the quality of console gear. ~ Matt Brown, Former Senior Editor
"Compatible with Xbox consoles and Windows PC, the VelocityOne Flightstick is perfect for immersive simulations or action-packed space flights with eight high-precision axes. " ~ Ben Wilson, Senior Editor
Thrustmaster doesn't pretend that the T.Flight HOTAS One is a premium flight stick, as it carefully cuts back on any excessive features like built-in displays or unnecessary RGB, sticking instead to a no-frills shell and focusing on the responsive joystick and throttle combination. ~ Ben Wilson, Senior Editor
Honeycomb Aeronautical's award-winning Alpha Flight Controls is updated and compatible with Xbox (with the external Xbox hub accessory) and is one of the absolute best options for flight sim players when combined with the equally great Bravo Throttle Quadrant. ~ Zachary Boddy, Former Staff Writer
Part of a wider effort to simplify a yoke and throttle setup and, in turn, offer a more affordable price tag to help new players ease their way into an ultra-realistic simulation rig — you'll notice I never used the word "cheap" here, and that's for a good reason. ~ Ben Wilson, Senior Editor
The rudder can be hard to accurately control using a controller or twisting a flight stick, so these pedals from Logitech are a great addition to your setup. with self-centering, smooth action, and adjustable tension. Whether small planes or big jets, these rudder pedals will do the job fantastically well. View Deal
Flight stick FAQ
Should I buy a flight stick or a yoke?
This mostly depends on your knowledge of aircraft, as each control type varies in real life. Some small planes use a yoke, while some large airliners, notably the Airbus ones, will use a stick. It depends what you think you'll be more comfortable with, or how close to realism you're trying to get.
Do I need to buy rudder pedals?
Not necessarily. While it does offer a realistic experience and appeals to intermediate players and above, you can usually emulate these controls with flight sticks that allow twisting. Pedals are generally more useful for anyone buying a yoke, but they match up with traditional flight sticks, too. If you're a new player, don't worry about pedals.
Do all flight sticks work on Xbox and PS5?
No. While flight sticks and yokes made for consoles will generally work on PCs that meet MSFS' spec requirements, the same is not true for the opposite. Always check for explicit compatibility confirmation before buying any peripheral if that's your intended platform. Windows PC players don't have to worry as much.
Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.
The critically acclaimed Geekom A9 Max mini-PC is now on special offer for a 13% discount, plus an extra 10% when paired with this limited-time promo code, so you can shave its insane price to enjoy premium PC gaming on the go for less.
A white Geekom A9 Max mini-PC placed on a wooden desk above a black Razer Joro keyboard.
A fan-made Unreal Engine 5 project called Sprash combines Crash Bandicoot and Spyro into one playable experience, featuring upgraded visuals, co-op multiplayer, and classic Spyro levels.
Crash Bandicoot and Spyro face off in a split jungle and fantasy landscape crossover image with the Spyro + Crash logo centered.
Steam has more than 100,000 games it wants to sell you, but some of the platform's most popular listings aren't games at all. Here are five that I don't regret adding to my collection.
An image of a Windows 11 desktop with windows for Steam, Wallpaper Engine, and Aseprite overlaid.
An image of a Windows 11 desktop with windows for Steam, Wallpaper Engine, and Aseprite overlaid.
Maingear impressed us with its MG-1 pre-built gaming PC in 2025, and the company has now returned with an MG-1 MK.II model that addresses most of the complaints I had. Here's what you need to know before buying.
A Maingear MG-1 MK.II gaming PC with RGB lighting illuminates the interior. It features a GeForce RTX graphics card and vibrant cooling fans, creating a futuristic vibe.
A Maingear MG-1 MK.II gaming PC with RGB lighting illuminates the interior. It features a GeForce RTX graphics card and vibrant cooling fans, creating a futuristic vibe.
Valve takes another shot at a PC gaming controller that tempts players away from their consoles, and it convinced me to buy. So, was it worth the asking price?
Valve Steam Controller (2026) held in two hands against a magenta card background
It looks gigantic and unwieldy, but the new Steam Controller is quite comfortable.
A new controversial post from Valorant studio Riot Games has sparked an uproar in the game's community, fueling a misunderstanding about its anti-cheat.
Official promotional key art for Valorant, Riot Games' popular free-to-play PvP tactical shooter.
The latest update to Valorant's Vanguard anti-cheat system gives it the power to stop DMA firmware cards used for hacking from working.
Alienware's AW2726DM is an easy recommendation for anyone who needs a $349 QD-OLED gaming monitor. It does come with some concessions to meet that price, and I explain them here.
A widescreen monitor on a wooden desk displays the vibrant "Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty" menu, featuring neon lights and a futuristic cityscape.
The Alienware AW2726DM attached to a monitor arm on my gaming desk.
Pick up a ready-made desktop gaming PC from iBUYPOWER in the week leading up to Memorial Day with some time-limited discounts.
Close-up of iBUYPOWER RDY Trace X R01 pre-built gaming PC's internal cooling system with a digital display reading 41°C. Radiant lighting and sleek cables exude a high-tech, vibrant ambiance.
A long-awaited path tracing mod for Dark Souls 2 has been released publicly, and gives FromSoftware's ARPG a massive graphical glowup.
Official key art for Dark Souls 2: Scholar of the First Sin.
Dark Souls 2 is often thought of as the least appealing game in FromSoftware's trilogy visually, but this path tracing mod almost makes it look like a modern release.
Xbox Mode’s handling of dual monitor setups is raising concerns among PC gamers, with secondary displays left blank while the primary monitor runs the new console-style interface.
A glowing green Xbox logo shines prominently in the center against a blurred background of Xbox Mode promotional image.
Xbox Mode has officially started rolling out on Windows 11, but early feedback from users has been mixed. From rollout confusion and missing features to glitchy UI behavior and disappointing performance gains, fans are already questioning whether the new gaming-focused mode is ready for prime time.
Xbox Mode promo image showing multiple Windows 11 devices with a console-style UI and a controller, highlighting availability and Forza Horizon 6.
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