Valve has introduced a new reservations system for its Steam Controller, following the device's initial sell-out. The company hopes this will curb scalping and ensure fairer access. Those interested can reserve a controller starting Friday at 1PM ET, with orders filled in the same order as reservations. A $99 price tag remains, but eBay listings have been climbing well above that.

Valve notes the high interest was 'incredibly frustrating' for many customers during the initial sale. The new system aims to address this by prioritising legitimate buyers over resellers and scalpers. However, restrictions apply: your account must be in good standing and you must have made a previous purchase on Steam before April 27th.

While the new reservation queue is set to launch in the US and Canada next week, other regions will follow 'in the following weeks.' For now, those who already own a Steam Controller are barred from reserving another. Valve reassures customers they will begin fulfilling reservations soon but hasn't committed to any firm dates for when the Steam Machine or Frame will be available.

The company has faced similar challenges with previous releases like the Steam Deck and anticipates implementing a similar system in the future. As digital goods increasingly mingle with physical scarcity, it's clear Valve is taking proactive steps to ensure its products reach their intended audience fairly.