Steam Gets a New Official Controller
Get ready to elevate your gaming experience! Steam is introducing an official gamepad that will enhance your gameplay like never before. This controller, crafted by the renowned Japanese company Hori, is specifically designed to seamlessly integrate with the Steam platform and offer an unparalleled level of control and customization.
Key Features Distinguishing the New Steam Controller
- Customizable Layout: The controller boasts a wide range of programmable buttons, including four extra buttons strategically positioned for effortless access. These buttons can be assigned various functions to suit your preferences, delivering the ultimate level of personalization.
- Steam Integration: Dive into the world of Steam games with a controller that effortlessly complements the platform. The dedicated Steam button provides quick access to Big Picture Mode and the Steam menu, ensuring seamless navigation and control.
- Gyro and Touch Sensors: Experience precise and immersive gameplay with the built-in gyro and touch sensors on the analog sticks. These features enhance your in-game actions, allowing for a natural and intuitive gaming experience.
- Wired and Wireless Connectivity: Enjoy the flexibility of both wired and Bluetooth wireless connections. The wired connection offers ultra-low latency, while Bluetooth wireless provides the freedom to play from a distance without any hassle.
- Extensive Customization Options: Unleash your creativity with Hori’s dedicated software, which grants you full control over the controller’s settings. Adjust stick sensitivity, button mapping, and various other parameters to tailor the controller to your exact specifications.
Key Improvements Compared to the Steam Deck Controller
- Programmable Buttons: Unlike the Steam Deck, the new controller features four programmable buttons, allowing you to assign frequently used actions for even quicker access and control.
- Improved Ergonomics: The controller’s design prioritizes comfort and ergonomics, ensuring extended gaming sessions without any discomfort. Its contours and button placement are meticulously engineered to provide a natural and fatigue-free gaming experience.
- Wired Connectivity: In addition to Bluetooth wireless, the controller offers a wired connection option, guaranteeing a stable and uninterrupted gaming experience, particularly crucial for competitive gaming or action-packed adventures.
Availability and Pricing
The new Wireless Horipad for Steam will make its debut on October 31st in Japan, adorned in four vibrant colors: black, white, neon yellow, and violet. Its price will hover around $50, making it an accessible option for gamers seeking an exceptional controller experience.
While Hori has only confirmed the controller’s release in Japan, there’s a glimmer of hope for global availability. Hori’s collaborations with Valve, the company behind Steam, and its prior experience in creating PC controllers suggest that a wider release is plausible.
Conclusion
The arrival of the Wireless Horipad for Steam marks a significant milestone in the evolution of Steam controllers. Its combination of customizable controls, seamless Steam integration, and extensive customization options promises to elevate your gaming sessions to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned Steam veteran or a budding enthusiast, this controller is an indispensable tool for unlocking the full potential of your gaming library.