Valve Gives Away 3D Files For Gaming Console For Free, Encouraging Customization
Valve’s handheld gaming console, the Steam Deck, is scheduled for a February 25 release. With around two weeks to go, the firm posted an update on Saturday announcing that the console’s CAD files would be made available to access for free.
An STP model, STL model, and drawings are included for all the necessary reference points, and these can be downloaded under a Creative Commons license.
This will benefit modders, accessory manufacturers, or just a curious gamer, as it’ll allow for them to 3D-print their own iteration of the Steam Deck’s external shell and get a feel for it.
Eurogamer notes that Valve’s decision to release the files and encourage creativity with a cheery “we’re looking forward to seeing what the community creates!” suggests that the firm is not only approving but also championing third-party builders making accessories for the new console.
A contrasting example of Sony is given, where the company cracked down on third-party PS5 console covers to ensure that gamers can only get official ones. Here, it seems that Valve isn’t too concerned about competition from others and instead appears excited to see the customization of the new Steam Deck.
The Steam Deck’s CAD files can be found and downloaded on GitHub, alongside a request to showcase “interesting creations” to the firm at [email protected].
