About Steam Controller
The new Steam Controller is developed by Universal Studios Hollywood Hub. It will be available exclusively on PC through Steam, with a release date set for Monday, May 4 at 10 a.m. PT (1 p.m. ET). The price is set at $99.99, which places it slightly above other contemporary controllers.
Quick Facts
| Developer | Universal Studios Hollywood Hub |
|---|---|
| Platform(s) | PC |
| Release Date | Monday, May 4 |
| Price | $99.99 |
Key Features of the Steam Controller
This controller brings a wealth of input options to enhance player experience. It includes a D-pad, two analog sticks, four face buttons, two triggers, two bumpers, and four back buttons. Additionally, the controller features two touchpads that allow for versatile control options, including mouse and keyboard inputs, or weapon-select wheels depending on the game.
The analog sticks utilize TMR technology for precision and reliability, which should help mitigate the stick drift issues common in many controllers. The touch capacitive tops of the sticks and grips enable tilt functionality, adding another layer of control, particularly for aiming in first-person shooters.
The Steam Controller also includes a magnetic puck for charging and can be used wired via a USB-C port. Its programmability stands out; any button can be reassigned to function like another button or to register as keyboard keys or mouse clicks. Furthermore, Valve offers a community layout option, allowing users to upload and share their custom control schemes.
Pricing Comparison and Community Reception
At $99.99, some players have criticized the Steam Controller as being pricey. However, many argue that it is competitively priced compared to other first-party controllers. The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller, for example, costs $89.99 but lacks many of the advanced features found in the Steam Controller, such as touchpads and extensive programmability.
While there has been some debate around its price point, the Steam Controller's unique features may justify the cost for those looking for adaptability in their gaming setup. With the delays of the Steam Machine and Steam Frame VR headset, the Steam Controller could be a solid choice for players seeking a new controller for Steam games on PC or handheld devices.