Valve's upcoming VR headset may be on the horizon after a lengthy six-year wait.
Valve
Rumors regarding Valve's new wireless VR headset, codenamed Deckard, began to emerge in 2022, with only a few details surfacing since then. As reported by Wccftech today, Valve insider Gabe Follower shared a substantial amount of new information, revealing a possible price of $1,200 and a projected launch date in 2025.
The full message states:
"Multiple sources have confirmed that Valve is targeting a release for a new standalone, wireless VR headset (codename Deckard) by late 2025. The estimated price for the complete package is around $1200, which will include certain “in-house” games (or demos) that are already completed. Valve aims to provide the best user experience while avoiding cost-cutting measures. Even at this price point, the headset will be sold at a loss. A few months ago, leaked controller designs (codename Roy) were spotted in a SteamVR update. It will run on a modified version of SteamOS from the Steam Deck, tailored for virtual reality. One of the main features is the capability to play flat-screen games available on the Steam Deck in VR on a large screen without needing a PC. Initial closed-door presentations may commence soon."
Similar to the Valve Index headset launched in 2019, the expected $1,200 price for the Deckard is quite steep. The Index's slogan was “fidelity first,” and it appears the company will adopt a comparable strategy again, targeting a high-end offering for VR fans.
Follower references “in-house” games and demos, which is logical. Although VR remains a niche field, the global success of Half-Life: Alyx significantly boosted the Index's sales and kept it in conversation, even among those not purchasing it. It wouldn't be surprising if Valve has another groundbreaking launch title lined up for this new headset, intended to push the technology to its limits and persuade more consumers to explore VR.
Images of the recently leaked controllers are included as well – they appear quite different from the Index controllers but bear a striking resemblance to Meta’s Quest 3 controllers. Patent drawings of the headset do not reveal much, apart from supporting the rumors that it will indeed be wireless.
Most interestingly, the plan to use a modified version of SteamOS, allowing users to play Steam Deck games on a large VR screen, stands out. This feature could significantly boost sales since it ensures customers will always have something to use the headset for, even during slower periods for VR games.
Follower believes presentations could occur soon, and if Valve truly intends to unveil this product by the end of the year, an official announcement could be imminent.
Willow Roberts has been a Computing Writer at Digital Trends for a year and has been writing for approximately a decade. She has a...
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Valve's upcoming VR headset may be on the horizon after a lengthy six-year wait.
Additional details about the speculated wireless VR headset from Valve are beginning to emerge, and it could potentially be launched this year.