SteamOS Gamer: The Magazine for Steam & Valve Hardware

Welcome to SteamOS Gamer, the definitive print and digital magazine built exclusively for the Steam platform, Valve hardware (plus supported Lenovo Legion Go S etc), and the SteamOS ecosystem. We're not focused on the usual PC hard drive clutter, but instead the quality, support and reliability we know Valve and Steam can deliver. (Fanboying Valve..? For sure!)

Every issue brings you exclusive features, hardware reviews, SteamOS optimisation guides, and curated Steam Store spotlights created for passionate players and fans alike.

60-page, A5-sized magazine printed on premium glossy paper - collectible magazines sized to match the compact nature of the Steam Deck and Valve's small-form-factor devices.

Pre-Order Issue 1 Today (Launching 2026)

Pre-orders are officially live!

Yes, we’re operating on a bit of "Valve Time" here and taking our time, but only because we're obsessing over every single page. True quality takes time, and we promise the final product will be well worth the anticipation. Like Valve, we might not be in a rush - but your pre-order shouldn't wait. Secure your copy today so you don't miss out when our first issue lands.

Inside SteamOS Gamer magazine Issue 1:

• Half-Life: Valve's Iconic Debut
  A definitive deep dive into the evolution of gaming's greatest sci-fi saga. We trace Half-Life's incredible progression and impact. From the original trip to Black Mesa to the revolutionary Half-Life 2, the episodic cliffhangers, and the groundbreaking VR world of Half-Life: Alyx - exploring how Gordon Freeman's journey continues to shape Valve's design philosophy today.
• 2026 Hardware Dawn
  Have Valve learned from previous attempts at entering the PC or console market? Finally now we can deep dive into Valve's massive living room and VR push, profiling the new Steam Machine and Steam Frame VR.
• New Steam Controller
  Hands-on impressions of Valve’s latest input innovation.
• Curated Steam Store Spotlights
  With thousands of games dropping on Steam, we do the digging for you. We profile the absolute best indie games of 2026 that deserve a spot in your library right now.
• EmuDeck, Installing Non-Steam Games & SteamOS Apps
  Turn your handheld into an emulation machine. We dive into setting up EmuDeck for retro perfection and showcase the essential SteamOS games/apps you need to install.
• ProtoArc Deck Keyboards Reviewed
  Can a folding keyboard truly unlock desktop-mode productivity on the move? We put ProtoArc's deck-friendly peripherals to the test.
• The Steam Deck Essential Library
  From sprawling open worlds to hidden gems, we break down the definitive, must-own games that showcase the true power of portable play.
• SteamOS Power-User Guide
  Expert tips to master Proton compatibility, unlock desktop mode, and boost battery life. We'll be giving you tips to get the most out of your Steam hardware so it can be used for both work and play!
  
• Plus hardware reviews, retro retrospectives, and much more!

ISSUE 1 - SHIPPING DATE 2026, PRE-ORDER CUSTOMERS WILL RECEIVE EMAIL UPDATES

Readers who subscribe for Print Issues also get the Digital Download version included free in their subscription.

Ongoing Subscriptions & Direct Debit payment plans

Visit the Ongoing Subscriptions Plan page if you prefer to pay on a rolling issue-by-issue basis without having to remember to renew. Payments are automatically taken each time a new issue is ready and charged to your saved card.

EU / International Readers (outside of the United Kingdom)

EU customers are charged IOSS / EU taxes at checkout, as a result you will not receive customs or import charges on your order. International customers outside of the EU may be charged import tax from your own government via your postal service when the order is delivered, this will depend on the specific import rules of your region. It can take a long time to receive your order depending on where you live, please check Royal Mail's international delivery aims below before ordering:

www.royalmail.com/sending/international/international-economy