Valve is "messing up" all launches in my opinion if I go by your definition. They always are out of stock pretty fast.
Look at the Steam Deck. To this day you have to check every day (at least in Germany) if there is any stock now.
replyFor the scalpers part; I know a lot of people who would pull out a stack of money for anything Valve/Steam branded. I personally needed a new controller and when I saw the release date I set multiple alarms because at some point you just know how fast they’ll be sold out.
In my (german) memory, I could buy my steam deck quite problem free. The supply issues only really started end of last year/start of this year, due to the global RAM shortages. Before that, I can't recall there being availability issues. (at least in germany)
reply> Like what is the point, what fun is there in playing this game…
replyI got to ask What made you want to live this kind of life?
He said, "There ain't no rest for the wicked
Money don't grow on trees I got bills to pay, I got mouths to feed There ain't nothing in this world for free
I know I can't slow down, I can't hold back Though you know, I wish I could Oh no, there ain't no rest for the wicked Until we close our eyes for good"
Cage The Elephant - "Ain't No Rest For The Wicked"