After Years Of Battling Scammers, Valve Is Pulling Steam Gift Cards From Retailers In 2026

Payment options have been slimmed down across multiple platforms. In 2020, we saw XBOX Live Gold limit its annual options for the subscription then. And similarly on PlayStation, there have been a reduced number of gift cards. Its PlayStation Now service once offered prepaid cards in retailers before the firm decided to pull that as well.

In a similar situation, we now see Valve perform the same action for its gift cards. Introduced just over a decade ago, the Steam gift card will be going extinct later in 2026. Valve announced in a new FAQ that the main reason is due to the rampant battle with scammers in recent time. And to best protect its consumers, the decision to stop manufacturing the gift cards is the best option ultimately.

“We introduced Steam Gift Cards to retail stores back in 2012, and added the digital program in 2017. Unfortunately, scammers use gift cards from major brands like Steam to take advantage of people all over the world,” it reads. “As we have continued to put more and more restrictions in place, scammers have adapted. They continue to have an impact on Steam customers and other unsuspecting individuals. So we’ve made the difficult decision to end the Steam Gift Card program at retail stores.

“As Steam Gift Cards run out of stock at retail locations, we will not be restocking them. We expect all retailers to be out of stock by the end of 2026. Though we will no longer be selling physical gift cards, you will still have the ability to use your existing gift cards on Steam whenever you choose, subject to local laws. We also continue to offer Steam Digital Gift Cards, and are working to make this an even better experience.

“Guest checkout, which we added last year, is another way for family members and friends to gift Steam users with a digital card anytime.” The FAQ goes on to elaborate on further changes that are being made to Steam Wallet codes as well. But, redirecting funds to friends or other accounts will not be permitted according to the FAQ.

“No, your Steam wallet funds cannot be moved or gifted to another Steam account. You may request a refund for Steam Wallet funds within fourteen days of purchase if they were purchased on Steam and if you have not used any of those funds.” Digital gift cards will still be available and can even be gifted as well. You can view the website by heading here.

Are you surprised by this decision from Valve?

Source: Valve