Upgrading a PC to Intel's recently announced 10th generation "Comet Lake" processors requires the purchase of a new motherboard with the latest socket, LGA 1200. This makes it more costly than if Intel had used the same socket as Coffee Lake. To soften the blow, MSI is offering to deposit up to $50 into your Steam Wallet if you upgrade from an eligible motherboard to one of its Z490 boards for enthusiasts.

MSI calls this a "trade-in" (via Guru3D), but you don't actually have to send in your old motherboard. A few images will suffice. Specifically, you will need a copy of the invoice (or screenshot) proving that you purchased a Z490 motherboard, a photo of the serial number sticker on the new motherboard, and a snapshot of the new motherboard and the old motherboard side by side. Registration is also required.

As you can see, there are a few hoops to jump through, but for the most part it's easy. However, if you plan to keep using (or give someone else) your old system, it is tricky because you have to disassemble it to take pictures. Still, if the motherboard you purchased is eligible, it may be worth paying the full credit.

The amount of the Steam credit depends on the Z490 motherboard you purchased; $50 is the full amount, but some models will only give you $40, $30, $15, or even $10 (MPG Z490 Gaming Plus). In any case, if you are going to dismantle the system, I can see making an effort to collect even $10. Otherwise, I'll pass (although I'd like to take a picture of the board inside the case and see if that floats your boat).

MSI is generously offering older motherboards as part of this promotion, including those based on Intel's Z390, Z370, Z270, and Z170 chipsets. While this promotion is almost exclusively for own-brand products, some Asus Z390 and Z370 motherboards are also included. Gigabyte and ASRock are not included, however. I see.

MSI has provided step-by-step instructions (PDF) to make the process as easy as possible; MSI says it will take up to 14 business days to confirm eligibility after the process is complete, after which the Steam code will be emailed. The promotion will run from May 20 through June 15, 2020, or while supplies last.