Valve’s legal team informed Dbrand early after the launch that the Companion Cube infringed Valve IP and demanded a takedown of the product and launch video; Valve declined licensing, and Dbrand honored the takedown and started refunds.

Dbrand frames the episode as a lesson on licensing, emphasizing Valve did nothing wrong and expressing remorse for the oversight.

All buyers are being refunded, with refunds expected to reach customers by the end of the week, and Dbrand publicly apologized for not seeking permission beforehand.

The product rapidly gained traction, becoming one of Dbrand’s fastest-selling items before the issue forced its removal.

Context on Steam Machine customization is provided, noting a magnetically swappable front plate and recalling past Dbrand controversies and related notes.

Dbrand invested substantial resources, including over a thousand hours of engineering and multiple design revisions with extensive tooling, in a bid to gauge interest via sign-ups and renders.

Even before launch, more than 15,000 people signed up and significant production work was underway, heightening disappointment once licensing concerns emerged.

Despite the takedown, Dbrand continues exploring Steam Machine case ideas, with a Typeform survey showing possible concepts and colors.

Dbrand plans to pivot to new skins and keep operating, despite the setback and the financial costs already incurred.

The episode serves as a cautionary tale about IP licensing and the risks of releasing fan-made hardware tied to a major franchise, underscoring the need for proper licensing.

The story contrasts permission versus forgiveness in IP matters while noting Valve’s Steam Machine program and the waitlist for interested buyers.

Refunds were issued on June 29, 2026, to all Companion Cube buyers, with standard and lower-priced versions priced at $130 and $99 respectively.