It is true.
I can use this machine using the interior power switch and I intend to put it through its paces until it goes back. But yes, sadly, it looks like something may have jarred loose or gotten damaged in transit.
Downloading a couple of games now anyway, since nothing will change between now and Friday.
It's a very quiet machine. All the peripherals are working. It occurred to me that I need some really good wireless headphones since the ones I have are wired.