Steam's impressive catalogue of games for download could get additional music and video content as well. Reports suggest that Valve will be introducing pilot programs for the initiative before the end of the year.

Speaking to Tom's Games at GDC, Doug Lombardi (Valve's Vice-President of Marketing) said: "We're looking at more casual games and international games. And we're also looking at other types of content like video and music. We're definitely having those conversations and meetings, and we're reaching out to folks with other types of digital entertainment. I think before the end of the year, you'll probably see some pilot programs with other digital entertainment on Steam."

Digital download of HD video content is a potential battleground for next-gen machines as the console wars develop. Since December 2007, Microsoft's Xbox Live Marketplace has been offering HD films for rent in Europe. Additionally, PSN's Home looks set to provide the framework for a similar service (even though Home's Theatres will initially only offer trailers and game videos etc.).

With this in mind, it makes complete sense that Valve is making a move to cover this market with Steam, as digitally downloaded HD video content could end-up being a much more significant battle than HD discs (recently won by Sony's Blu-ray).