Ubisoft Co-founder Death & Steam Machine Pricing | FOX on Games - Video Game News & Industry Analysis

June 28, 2026 - 03:30

The gaming world is reeling from the sudden loss of Claude Guillemot, co-founder of Ubisoft, who died in a tragic plane crash earlier this week. Guillemot, along with his brothers, built the French company from a small agricultural software distributor into a global powerhouse behind franchises like Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, and Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six. Industry leaders and fans have expressed shock and grief, remembering Guillemot as a visionary who helped shape modern interactive entertainment. Ubisoft released a brief statement asking for privacy as the family mourns, while tributes have poured in from developers and publishers worldwide.

In other news, Valve has finally confirmed the pricing for its upcoming Steam Machine hardware, and it is not cheap. The company announced that the premium tier of the device, designed to bring the Steam library into living rooms, will start at a significant price point. While the base model will offer a more accessible entry, the high-end version is positioned as a direct competitor to dedicated gaming PCs and consoles. Valve emphasized that the cost reflects the custom hardware and the promise of a seamless, high-performance experience. Analysts are divided on whether the price will attract a broad audience or remain a niche product for dedicated Steam users. The Steam Machine is expected to launch later this year.