Valve Rolls Out Fair-Play Reservations for Steam Controller Restock

Valve has revamped the Steam Controller restock with a one-per-user reservation system and eligibility rules (one controller per user; accounts must have at least one prior purchase before April 27, 2026) to curb scalpers and bots. Reservations open May 8 at 10:00 a.m. Pacific, are processed in a transparent queue, and include a 72-hour purchase window once your reservation is secured. If you don’t complete the purchase in time, the reservation moves to the next person in line. A phased rollout will start in the U.S. and Canada before expanding to the UK, Europe and Australia, aiming for fair stock distribution and a smoother buying experience. Valve’s approach could become a blueprint for future high-demand hardware launches.