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AppWizard
June 11, 2026

Valve to discontinue physical Steam gift cards by the end of 2026 due to scammers — says nefarious actors continue to exploit them despite years of restrictions

Valve will discontinue the sale of physical Steam gift cards by the end of 2026, with retail stores expected to deplete existing inventory by the end of this year. Current holders of Steam gift cards can still redeem them at any time, following local laws. Users can still purchase and send digital gift cards through the Steam platform. Additionally, Valve is implementing a reservation-based system for its Steam Controller to prevent scalping, restricting reservations to eligible Steam accounts with a solid purchase history.
Valve opens Steam Controller reservations, but it's "limited to one" per person, so you better act fast
AppWizard
May 8, 2026

Valve opens Steam Controller reservations, but it’s “limited to one” per person, so you better act fast

Reservations for the Steam Controller are open, allowing gamers to join a waiting list. Valve will notify registrants via email when they can purchase the controller. Each customer is limited to one controller per transaction and must complete their order within 72 hours of notification. This new system was implemented due to high demand that caused the initial batch to sell out quickly. Previously, customers could buy two controllers, leading to scalping on reseller platforms.
Steam Controller stock sold out in minutes, but there is something you can do about it
AppWizard
May 5, 2026

Steam Controller stock sold out in minutes, but there is something you can do about it

Steam Controller stock sold out quickly after its release, with most regions reporting "out of stock" within half an hour. Scalpers are reselling the controllers on eBay at inflated prices, often using misleading listings that violate eBay's presale guidelines. Consumers can report these listings to eBay, which may lead to their removal. It is advised that buyers resist purchasing from scalpers and wait for standard-priced stock, as more shipments may be forthcoming and could resolve existing software issues with the controller.
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