A visual escape is sometimes enough to revive the hope of an entire community. That’s exactly what happened with the alleged startup video for the Steam Machine, Valve’s new hybrid PC console. Posted on X/Twitter by Brad Lynch, known for his precise revelations about the Valve universe, this short sequence immediately made the rounds on specialized forums.
In the video, a square containing a light blue dot appears on the screen. It slowly grows, rotating like a gear, before transforming into the Steam logo. The sleek, almost retro design did not fail to awaken a collective memory among players: the emblematic interface of the Nintendo Gamecube.
A splash screen that reignites Gamecube nostalgia
The comparison was quick to crop up in comments on Reddit, particularly in the GamingLeaksAndRumours subreddit, where the video was reposted. Between GIFs and memories, the reactions have multiplied. One player wrote with emotion: “I miss booting up the Gamecube.”
Another saw it as a more subtle reference to the Valve universe, declaring: “Am I crazy or does this look like a companion cube?” – an obvious nod to Portal. This dual aesthetic reading suggests that the animation was designed to appeal to both Nintendo fans and those of the Steam universe.
The lingering shadow of Half-Life 3
As is often the case with Valve, every detail becomes a pretext for rumor. One user immediately linked the video to another cult anticipation: “The Half-Life subreddit will interpret this as a sign that Half-Life 3 is coming soon.” This is not the first time that a leak around a Valve product has reignited speculation around the most fantasy game in gaming history. Even without official basis, hope continues to fuel discussions. Moreover, another user, more ironic, simply blurted out: “It’s confirmed. The machine will turn on.”
Valve is staying silent…for now
For now, Valve has not confirmed the existence of the video, nor the official release date of the Steam Machine. The lack of communication further fuels the excitement. Remember that this machine is supposed to act as a compact gaming PC, capable of easily connecting to a television.
Between nostalgic homage, carefully calculated tease and strategic silence, Valve still manages to captivate the global video game sphere. A simple start-up video is enough to revive memories… and fantasies.