Peripheral maker Dbrand has released a Companion Cube case for Valve's Steam Machine, an accessory that leans heavily into a joke from the 2007 game Portal. Despite its roots in a dated meme and its substantial size increase, the case has garnered grudging respect for its build quality and thoughtful design.
The Companion Cube case is a significant departure from the Steam Machine's compact form factor. When housing the console, the overall package becomes approximately 25% larger, potentially encroaching on screen visibility and making it less suited for minimalist setups. This increase in size is a point of contention for those who appreciate the Steam Machine's original small footprint.
Pricing and Availability
The case comes with a considerable price tag, retailing at $100 for the base model with an October shipping date. A more premium $130 option guarantees September shipping and includes additional features such as custom Aperture-inspired packaging, a Portal gun skin for a Steam Controller, and a unique red button base.
Design and Build Quality
Despite the criticisms of its size and price, the Companion Cube case is praised for its construction. It is made from a thick, premium plastic that offers a tactile, almost dusty feel, reminiscent of ruggedized walkie-talkies. The interior features rubberized rails that ensure the Steam Machine slides in smoothly for a precise fit. Installation involves removing a rear frame, with an Allen key conveniently stored within a small cavity on the same panel. Other design considerations include removable port covers for a clean aesthetic and reversible feet to adjust table clearance. IMAGE2
Thermal Performance
The case does not appear to negatively impact the Steam Machine's thermal performance. Dbrand has incorporated adequate airflow cutouts, and internal testing showed no meaningful increases in CPU, GPU, or RAM temperatures. The external hot spot, the rear fan grate, only saw a one-degree Celsius rise, from 40°C to 41°C, a negligible change that could be attributed to minor ambient temperature fluctuations.
Ultimately, the Dbrand Companion Cube case is positioned as a niche product for dedicated fans of the Portal series and the Steam Machine. While not a practical choice for everyone, it offers a testament to Dbrand's craftsmanship and a novel way for enthusiasts to combine two pieces of gaming history, albeit at a premium cost.