Exciting news for gamers: the new Steam controller by Hori has just been announced! This wireless controller is officially licensed by Valve, promising to deliver an exceptional gaming experience tailored for Steam users. With a range of innovative features and customization options, this controller is set to make waves in the gaming community. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, this new controller has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the new Steam controller Announced. We’ll explore its design, key features, connectivity options, compatibility, and much more. By the end, you’ll understand why this controller is generating so much buzz and how it can enhance your gaming sessions.
Announcement Details
Release Date
Mark your calendars: the new Steam controller is set to be released on October 31st. This date is particularly strategic as it aligns with the beginning of the holiday shopping season, allowing gamers to get their hands on the controller just in time for the year’s most anticipated game releases.
Price
Priced at approximately $50 USD, this controller offers a competitive option for gamers seeking high performance without breaking the bank. In the Japanese market, it’s listed at 7,980 Yen, maintaining a price range similar to other HY controllers currently available, which range from $50 to $60.
Controller Design and Models
Design Overview
The new Steam controller boasts a sleek and ergonomic design that aims to provide comfort during extended gaming sessions. The controller’s layout is intuitively designed to ensure ease of use, featuring well-placed buttons, triggers, and sticks that cater to both casual and competitive gamers. The build quality reflects Valve’s commitment to durability and user satisfaction, with materials chosen for their robustness and tactile feedback.
Color Options
Gamers love personalization, and the new Steam controller delivers with four distinct color options:
- Midnight Black
- Shiny White
- Neon Yellow
- Luminous Violet
Each color variant includes a small black panel in the bottom center, surrounding the D-pad and right analog stick, which adds a sophisticated two-tone look, especially prominent on the white, yellow, and violet models.
Two-Tone Look
The two-tone design isn’t just for aesthetics; it also serves a functional purpose. The contrasting panel helps gamers quickly locate the D-pad and analog stick during intense gaming moments. This thoughtful design element shows Valve’s attention to detail and understanding of gamer preferences.
Key Features
L4 and R4 Buttons
One of the standout features of the new Steam controller is the inclusion of four additional buttons:
- L4 and R4: Positioned on the back of the controller, these buttons can be customized to suit various gaming needs, whether it’s for executing complex combos in fighting games or quick access to inventory in RPGs.
- M1 and M2: Located on the front, these miscellaneous buttons add another layer of customization, enhancing the controller’s versatility.
Trigger Toggles
The controller features two innovative toggles:
- Trigger Preferences Toggle: This allows gamers to switch between analog and digital modes for the R2 and L2 triggers. Analog mode is ideal for racing games, offering fine input adjustments, while digital mode provides quick, maximum input values perfect for first-person shooters.
X Input and Steam Input Modes
A key feature that sets this controller apart is its ability to switch between:
- X Input Mode: Functions like a standard Xbox controller, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of games and platforms.
- Steam Input Mode: This mode supports advanced features like extra buttons, gyro, and capacitive sticks, all configurable within Steam. This is particularly significant as it’s the first controller, outside of Valve’s own hardware, to support Steam Input natively.
Advanced Features
Gyro Support
Gyro support is a game-changer for many genres, particularly for first-person shooters and racing games. In Steam Input mode, the controller’s gyro functionality allows for precise aiming and control, which can significantly enhance gameplay. As gyro support is not available in X Input mode, this feature underscores the controller’s optimization for Steam’s ecosystem.
Capacitive Sticks
Another advanced feature is the inclusion of capacitive sticks. These sticks can detect when your thumb is touching them, enabling features like gyro aiming to be toggled on and off seamlessly. This is especially useful for fast-paced games where quick reflexes and precise control are crucial.
Rapid Fire Configuration
Although not a major selling point for everyone, the controller’s rapid fire configuration on the ABXY buttons is worth noting. This feature can be particularly useful for older games that benefit from rapid input.
Connectivity and Battery Life
Wired and Wireless Options
The new Steam controller offers versatile connectivity options:
- Wired Connection: Via USB-C, ensuring a stable and responsive connection.
- Wireless Connectivity: Supports Bluetooth and potentially a non-Bluetooth wireless dongle, with a range of up to 10 meters.
Battery Life
Battery life is always a concern for wireless devices. The new Steam controller is estimated to last 12 hours on a full charge, with a recharge time of about 3.5 hours. This ensures that gamers can enjoy extended play sessions without frequent interruptions.
Missing Feature
A notable omission in the new Steam controller is the lack of trackpads. While trackpads have been a defining feature of Valve’s previous controllers, their absence in this model might disappoint some users. However, the inclusion of capacitive sticks and advanced gyro support may compensate for this for many gamers.
Conclusion: New Steam Controller Announced
The new Steam controller represents a significant evolution in gaming hardware, combining innovative features with Valve’s commitment to quality and user experience. Whether you’re a casual gamer looking for customizable controls or a competitive player seeking an edge in performance, this controller offers something for everyone.
With its advanced gyro support, capacitive sticks, and extensive customization options through Steam Input, the new Steam controller sets a new standard for gaming controllers. While it may not include features like rumble feedback or hall effect sticks, its focus on precision and flexibility makes it a compelling choice for PC gamers.