Gaming prototypes often vanish into storage—or pop up years later in unexpected places. One such device just made headlines: a Steam Deck prototype surfaced and sold on eBay for $2,000 after being spotted by an eagle-eyed fan.
The unit, labeled “engineering sample 34”, was spotted by Reddit user Gary_the_mememachine, who shared images of the prototype and its listing. Unlike the sleek, finalized Steam Deck we know today, this version featured several key design differences and signs of heavy use.
A Steam Deck engineering prototype was just sold on eBay today for $3000 😭
byu/Gary_the_mememachine inSteamDeck
Unique Design – and Flaws
Visually, the prototype closely resembles the final Steam Deck but with some clear distinctions. The touchpads are round instead of the square ones found on the commercial model. Two of the face buttons are colored blue rather than the standard black, and the button shapes appear to vary slightly.
Notably, the back of the device carries a plate identifying it as “engineering sample 34,” a clear marker that this was an internal unit used during Valve’s development process.
However, the prototype wasn’t in pristine condition. The listing notes scuffs, a loose touchpad, and a lack of an operating system. These flaws may have impacted its value — originally listed for $3,000, the seller ultimately accepted an offer of $2,000.
Steam Deck Joins Prototype Hall of Fame
Prototype gaming hardware changing hands is nothing new. Just recently, a Nintendo GameCube prototype from Space World 2000 surfaced on eBay with a jaw-dropping $100,000 asking price. These rare finds give fans and collectors a glimpse behind the curtain of console development, and the Steam Deck prototype is no exception.
Despite its condition, the prototype’s uniqueness and historical value make it a significant collectible. For fans of Valve or handheld gaming hardware, it’s a remarkable piece of tech history.
The sale of this Steam Deck prototype is another example of how gaming history can resurface in the most unexpected ways. With development hardware rarely seen outside company walls, these prototypes offer insight into how our favorite devices evolved.
Whether you’re a collector, a gamer, or just fascinated by tech history, this eBay sale proves that even a scuffed-up prototype can command serious attention—and cash.