Valve’s New Steam Controller: A Gamepad Revolution or Just Another Option?

Valve has launched its latest Steam Controller, a $99 gamepad that packs the Steam Deck’s extensive input options into a sleek, screenless design. With advanced customization, drift-resistant joysticks, and unique touch-sensitive grips, this controller aims to redefine PC gaming controls.

While it offers impressive hardware improvements and seamless integration with Steam Deck and PCs, the question remains: is it worth switching from your current favorite controller? Here’s a deep dive into what makes the new Steam Controller stand out and where it might fall short.

What Sets the Steam Controller Apart?

Unlike typical controllers, Valve’s new Steam Controller incorporates dual touchpads, four rear buttons, and touch-sensitive sensors on the sticks and grips. These features allow gamers to customize controls extensively, creating multiple control schemes for different gameplay scenarios. The controller also boasts drift-resistant TMR joysticks, promising longevity that competitors have yet to match.

• Dual touchpads for precise input
• Four easily accessible rear buttons
• Touch-sensitive grips and joysticks
• Drift-resistant TMR joysticks
• Magnetic USB-C charging dock with 2.4GHz wireless puck
• Seamless pairing and firmware updates
• Ability to wake PC or Steam Deck from sleep

How Does It Compare to Other Controllers?

Priced at $99, the Steam Controller is more affordable than premium options like Sony’s DualSense Edge or Xbox Elite Series 2. While it lacks features like swappable sticks and trigger stops, it compensates with unique inputs and deep customization. Valve’s Pierre-Loup Griffais highlights that its 2.4GHz wireless puck maintains low latency even with multiple controllers connected, outperforming Bluetooth in local multiplayer scenarios.

The controller’s grip-sense technology enables innovative control mappings, such as activating in-game abilities by holding the grips. This level of customization is unmatched by most competitors, making it a compelling choice for gamers who value tailored gameplay experiences.

Is It Worth Upgrading If You Already Have a Controller?

For many PC gamers, existing controllers like the Sony DualSense or 8BitDo Ultimate already integrate well with Steam’s input system. The new Steam Controller isn’t necessarily a must-have upgrade unless you crave its unique features or primarily game on a Steam Deck. Its compatibility with Steam’s control schemes and ability to function as a versatile PC input device add to its appeal, but it doesn’t force a replacement on users.

Valve isn’t like most companies, and its Steam Controller isn’t quite like other controllers. If you mainly play on a Steam Deck, seamlessly getting to use all your existing control schemes might be worth the price by itself.—Cameron Faulkner, The Verge

Looking Ahead: What the Steam Controller Means for PC Gaming

Valve’s new Steam Controller represents a bold step toward highly customizable, versatile gaming peripherals. Its user-repairable design and integration with Steam’s ecosystem suggest a future where gamers have more control over their hardware and software experience. While it may not dethrone established favorites immediately, it sets a new standard for what a PC gamepad can offer.

Orders open May 4th, and the Steam community’s creativity with the controller’s features will likely shape its legacy. Whether it becomes a niche favorite or a mainstream contender depends on how gamers embrace its unique capabilities.