3D-Print Custom Shells as Valve Has Released Steam Deck CAD Files

The Steam Deck is almost upon us, and as is the case with all new electronics, people will want to customize their own. Thankfully, Valve has now made that easier. The shell files for the Steam Deck are now available under a Creative Commons license, allowing players and companies to create skins and other accessories for the handheld console. 

All the computer-aided design (CAD) files have been released so people can create their own modifications for the Steam Deck. Those who do decide to develop physical modifications for the Deck will have to give proper attribution to Valve, not just “claim or imply” association with the company. They are not allowed to use the files and any potential modification for commercial purposes. 

All the relevant files can be found on GitLab, including the .stl and .stp, and Valve says they are “looking forward to seeing what the community creates.” A file has the email address players can contact for questions, feedback, requests, and anything else. 

The resources include a wireframe render of the Steam Deck, blueprint-looking CAD files that have the scale and design, and in-depth details of the specifics of the outer shell as well. The company has already stated those inclined can take apart the Steam Deck as they wish, but this will void the system’s warranty if it is damaged in the process. 

The Steam Deck is set to start shipping out to customers on February 28th, and early reviews have been very positive regarding the system. Currently, there are over 100 games that have been verified for the Steam Deck, including God of War and Horizon Zero Dawn. Given that no game from Steam’s catalog has been found that the Deck is unable to handle, this number is sure to keep growing. 

About Valve Software

Valve Corporation, also known as Valve Software, is an American video game developer, publisher, and digital distribution company based in Bellevue, Washington. Valve is best known for the software distribution platform Steam, along with gaming franchises such as Half-Life, Counter-Strike, Portal, Day of Defeat, Team Fortress, Left 4 Dead, and Dota.