Standalone XR Headset ‘Deckard’ Expected to Launch This Year for $1,200, According to Leaks

Valve is working on an exciting new virtual reality (VR) headset called ‘Deckard.’ The buzz around this device began back in January 2021 when data miners found references to it in the code. Recently, an insider known as ‘Gabe Follower’ has claimed that Valve plans to release the standalone, wireless VR headset by the end of 2025, with a price tag of around $1,200.

According to Gabe Follower, who shares updates on their YouTube channel, multiple sources have confirmed this information. They stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter) that Valve is determined to launch the Deckard headset soon and noted that the price will be quite high. Along with the headset, Gabe Follower mentioned that Valve will provide games or demos that are ready and specifically designed for this new device.

Interestingly, the $1,200 price might indicate that Valve could be selling the headset at a loss to make it more appealing to consumers. The Deckard is expected to run on a version of SteamOS, which is the same system found in the Steam Deck, Valve’s portable gaming device. This connection means that one of the major features of Deckard will allow users to play existing flat-screen games available on the Steam Deck, but in a virtual reality setting without needing a PC.

Gabe Follower also hinted that Valve may soon begin behind-closed-door presentations of this new headset. While it is always wise to be cautious about leaks and rumors, Gabe Follower has previously proved to be accurate with predictions about Valve projects, such as information regarding games like Counter-Strike and Half-Life, as well as Valve’s upcoming PC shooter called Deadlock.

In November 2024, further hints about Valve’s VR intentions surfaced when some 3D models were found hidden in an update for SteamVR, showcasing a new VR motion controller codenamed ‘Roy.’ The design of Roy differs from standard VR controllers, adopting a gamepad-style button layout. This adjustment could potentially enhance the experience of playing traditional games in a virtual environment, offering a more familiar input experience similar to that on the Steam Deck.

The rumors about the Deckard headset suggest that it may come packed with advanced features such as the ability to stream games from a PC wirelessly, eye-tracking technology, and augmented reality (AR) capabilities. These features could position Deckard as a serious competitor against other high-end headsets like the Meta Quest and Apple Vision Pro.

In summary, the excitement around Valve’s upcoming Deckard VR headset is growing as new information emerges. With a planned release by late 2025 and a hefty price of $1,200, the device is creating a lot of discussion in the gaming community. It remains to be seen how successful it will be, especially with its unique features and capabilities that aim to blur the lines between virtual and augmented reality. As the development continues, many are eager to see what Valve will unveil in the coming years.