Valve’s Steam Machines delayed until 2015

Valve has delayed the launch of its Steam Machines and controller until 2015.

The firm had previously announced its new consoles would be released this year, but has said due to improvements it needs to make to the hardware and controller, it is looking at launching its assault on the living room next year instead.

The unique Steam Machine controller uses touchpads instead of traditional analogue sticks to control player movement. The gamepad also originally featured a central touchscreen, but Valve has since ditched this in favour of physical buttons.

It is currently unclear how the delay will affect partner companies, some of which had been set to launch their Steam Machine systems this year.

“We’re now using wireless prototype controllers to conduct live playtests, with everyone from industry professionals to die-hard gamers to casual gamers,” read a statement.

“It’s generating a ton of useful feedback, and it means we’ll be able to make the controller a lot better. Of course, it’s also keeping us pretty busy making all those improvements. Realistically, we’re now looking at a release window of 2015, not 2014.

“Obviously we’re just as eager as you are to get a Steam Machine in your hands. But our number one priority is making sure that when you do, you’ll be getting the best gaming experience possible. We hope you’ll be patient with us while we get there.”