Valve's anticipated new Steam Controller has finally received its official unveiling. The controller will go on sale on May 4th at 8:00 PM Finnish time, and its price has been confirmed at 99 euros.
The new device is designed to work seamlessly with the entire Steam ecosystem, offering support for traditional PC computers, Steam Deck, and Steam Machine devices.
The controller's most significant technical innovation is its magnetic joysticks utilizing TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance) technology. These sticks consume less power and offer a more precise response than traditional Hall sensors. The technology also effectively combats the stick drift issue that plagues many game controllers.
In terms of control, Valve has combined the familiar touchpads from the first Steam Controller with a more traditional controller layout. The device features two precise touchpads, enabling gameplay for games requiring mouse control, such as strategy and simulation games.
Precision is further enhanced by gyroscope support, which can be activated simply by resting a finger on the sticks or the new grip sensor. Additionally, the back of the controller features four programmable extra buttons.
Wireless connectivity is implemented with a "Steam Controller Puck" transmitter, which provides a low-latency 2.4 GHz connection. The Puck also doubles as a magnetic charging dock, to which the controller effortlessly attaches for charging.
Valve promises over 35 hours of battery life on a single charge. The device's serviceability is noteworthy: the controller's battery is easily replaceable by the user without tools or glue. Opening the controller is simple by unscrewing it.
On the software side, the new Steam Controller directly utilizes community profiles created for the Steam Deck. Since the number of buttons and surfaces on the controller perfectly matches the Steam Deck's interface, players can download ready-made settings for games immediately on release day.
The controller lacks a traditional 3.5-millimeter audio jack and the two-stage triggers of the first model, but the overall package appears to be aimed at demanding PC gamers looking for durability and customizability.
With the new controller, Valve is also preparing the ground for its upcoming device releases. The Steam Machine and Steam Frame devices mentioned on the website suggest that the Steam Controller is just one part of a broader living room gaming strategy centered on integration with Steam services.
The controller's most significant technical innovation is its magnetic joysticks utilizing TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance) technology. These sticks consume less power and offer a more precise response than traditional Hall sensors. The technology also effectively combats the stick drift issue that plagues many game controllers.
In terms of control, Valve has combined the familiar touchpads from the first Steam Controller with a more traditional controller layout. The device features two precise touchpads, enabling gameplay for games requiring mouse control, such as strategy and simulation games.
Precision is further enhanced by gyroscope support, which can be activated simply by resting a finger on the sticks or the new grip sensor. Additionally, the back of the controller features four programmable extra buttons.
Wireless connectivity is implemented with a "Steam Controller Puck" transmitter, which provides a low-latency 2.4 GHz connection. The Puck also doubles as a magnetic charging dock, to which the controller effortlessly attaches for charging.
Valve promises over 35 hours of battery life on a single charge. The device's serviceability is noteworthy: the controller's battery is easily replaceable by the user without tools or glue. Opening the controller is simple by unscrewing it.
On the software side, the new Steam Controller directly utilizes community profiles created for the Steam Deck. Since the number of buttons and surfaces on the controller perfectly matches the Steam Deck's interface, players can download ready-made settings for games immediately on release day.
The controller lacks a traditional 3.5-millimeter audio jack and the two-stage triggers of the first model, but the overall package appears to be aimed at demanding PC gamers looking for durability and customizability.
With the new controller, Valve is also preparing the ground for its upcoming device releases. The Steam Machine and Steam Frame devices mentioned on the website suggest that the Steam Controller is just one part of a broader living room gaming strategy centered on integration with Steam services.
