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Steam Machine files revealed by Valve, opening the door to cool custom skins

The GabeCube is real.

An image of a PC screen with the Steam logo plastered all over it.

Dilara Irem Sancar/Anadolu via Getty Images

Published: Thursday, 30 July 2026 at 2:42 pm

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Valve has released the CAD design files for the Steam Machine, giving players a world of possibility to tinker with its external shell.

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If they follow the instructions, Steam Machine owners will now be able to produce front plates and other accessories.

In the README document as part of the files, Valve is actively encouraging players to get creative: "Feel free to use these to make your own front plates, or whatever else you want to create!"

The message continues with: "Your Steam Machine is yours, and you have the right to do with it what you want."

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According to Digital Foundry, the files have been released under a Creative Commons, specifically an "Attribution-NonCommercial-Sharealike 4.0 International" license which allows sharing and adapting work.

This means that although players will be able to customise exterior shells, they will not be able to sell any front plates or accessories legally.

The file release comes after the hefty price of the Steam Machine was announced, which ranges from £879 to a whopping £1,208 depending on storage space and the add-on of a Steam Controller.

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Despite its price tag, the way Valve is actively encouraging customisation is compelling, and it’s only a matter of time before we see a community built around creating unique skins.

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Authors

Belle LawGaming Content Creator

Belle Law is Radio Times's Gaming Content Creator, covering everything from retro classics and AAA titans to independent titles.

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