Recent leaks suggest Valve may be preparing to launch a new Steam Controller alongside a VR headset. The anticipated Steam Controller 2 is expected to feature a familiar button layout similar to the Steam Deck, but with a bulky design that raises questions about comfort. Additionally, a VR controller named “Roy” is in development, designed for both VR and traditional gaming, though its size may pose usability concerns for some users. Further confirmation from Valve is awaited.
Is Valve gearing up to unveil a new Steam Controller along with an innovative VR headset? Recent leaks suggest that the answer is a resounding yes, albeit with limited details about these anticipated devices.
When it comes to the upcoming Steam Controller, one can’t help but wonder what insights Valve has gained from its first controller experience, which received mixed reviews. Will the new design lean towards experimentation, or will it adhere to the successful conventions already established in console gaming? Most intriguingly, what will the design of this new controller look like?
Some of these design questions may have been partially answered. Recently, Brad Lynch and his team shared intriguing discoveries on X. They analyzed the drivers utilized by SteamVR and uncovered a 3D model of the new controller. While the image is somewhat unclear, it provides valuable clues regarding its features.
The anticipated Steam Controller 2 is expected to include the same button layout as the Steam Deck, featuring a directional pad and the classic A, B, X, Y buttons on the top edge. Additionally, it will have two joysticks positioned in the center and two trackpads at the bottom, complemented by various system buttons and triggers.
This design gives the controller a notably “bulky” look, potentially reminiscent of “The Duke“, the original Xbox’s hefty controller. Nevertheless, it incorporates all essential features needed for a PC controller that aims to replace the mouse. The big question remains: will this new offering match the comfort level of the highly popular Xbox Series controller among PC gamers?
A Potential VR Headset and Its Dedicated Controller
The presence of Steam Controller 2 drivers in SteamVR hints at compatibility with a forthcoming VR headset from Valve. While the reality of this VR headset is not yet confirmed, the development of a controller, named “Roy“, strongly indicates that Valve is making significant strides in this direction.
Interestingly, “Roy” also has a 3D model that Brad Lynch showcased on his X account. This model reveals a design featuring the same buttons as the Steam Deck and Steam Controller 2, but it lacks the trackpads. This suggests that while “Roy” is intended for VR, it will still support traditional PC gaming experiences designed for flat screens.
However, the design appears quite substantial, raising concerns about its usability for those with smaller hands during immersive VR gaming experiences. According to Lynch, Valve plans to offer straps to address this issue, although these will likely be sold separately.
It remains uncertain whether the “Roy” controller will launch alongside a Valve-made VR headset. Nonetheless, it wouldn’t be surprising if Valve aligns itself with the current wave of VR headset innovations, spurred by companies like Apple and Meta with their Vision Pro and Quest 3S.
As we await further confirmation from Valve or more reliable leaks, it’s best to approach this information with cautious optimism.