Valve releases CAD files for Steam Machine exterior under Creative Commons license, enabling custom skins and 3D printing.

Valve has released CAD files for the Steam Machine's exterior under a Creative Commons 'Attribution-NonCommercial-Sharealike 4.0 International' license, enabling users to create custom skins and 3D print their designs.¹⁴

This move allows for personal modifications, but any wrapper, skin, or front plate made with these files cannot be sold legally. Valve emphasizes that users can 3D-print or create their own skins, including popular designs like the Companion Cube, without legal repercussions.

The release comes as Valve continues to fulfill Steam Machine reservations, which are expected to be completed by the end of this year. “We expect everyone in the reservation queue will have the option to purchase by the end of this year,” Valve stated.²³

However, users should be aware that any damage caused by modifications will not be covered by warranty, as noted by a company representative.

This initiative reflects Valve's commitment to user creativity while maintaining control over commercial use of its designs.

As the gaming community eagerly awaits their Steam Machines, the release of these CAD files opens up new avenues for personalization and creativity in gaming hardware.