Dbrand cancels Companion Cube because it didn't actually ask Valve for permission
News Source
β’2026-06-29T11:59:45-04:00
π° What Happened
Dbrand has cancelled its Steam Machine Companion Cube accessory because it made the product without getting a license from Valve. The company announced it was refunding everyone who pre-ordered the Portal-themed accessory. Dbrand had announced the product back in November and started taking pre-orders the previous week. The company admitted it made the product 'without a license from Valve' and is now pulling it.
π The Backstory
The Companion Cube is a famous item from Valve's Portal video game series. It has a dedicated fan following. Dbrand's Steam Machine is a gaming PC designed to compete with consoles. The Companion Cube was meant to be an add-on accessory for it. This is not the first time a company has tried to sell unlicensed fan products based on popular games. Valve is known for protecting its intellectual property, including Portal and Half-Life.
π― Why It Matters
If you pre-ordered this accessory, check your refund. The case also shows how even big companies can get in trouble when they use popular game designs without asking permission first.
Dbrand has cancelled its Steam Machine Companion Cube accessory because it made the product without getting a license from Valve. The company announced it was refunding everyone who pre-ordered the Portal-themed accessory. Dbrand had announced the product back in November and started taking pre-orders the previous week. The company admitted it made the product 'without a license from Valve' and is now pulling it.
The Companion Cube is a famous item from Valve's Portal video game series. It has a dedicated fan following. Dbrand's Steam Machine is a gaming PC designed to compete with consoles. The Companion Cube was meant to be an add-on accessory for it. This is not the first time a company has tried to sell unlicensed fan products based on popular games. Valve is known for protecting its intellectual property, including Portal and Half-Life.
If you pre-ordered this accessory, check your refund. The case also shows how even big companies can get in trouble when they use popular game designs without asking permission first.