Valve is reportedly developing a sequel to the Steam Controller, alongside a controller for its Deckard VR headset, according to spatial computing expert Brad Lynch. Lynch, known for his datamining prowess, has often uncovered intriguing details about Valve's products. According to his findings, both the Steam Controller 2 (codenamed "Ibex") and a controller for the unconfirmed Deckard VR headset (codenamed "Roy", a nod to Blade Runner's Roy Batty) are in the works at Valve.
Lynch claims that both products are "being tooled for a mass production goal in [Valve's] factories right now." He further clarified on Twitter that this does not imply immediate assembly but suggests a later stage in product development. Lynch estimates it could be up to a year before mass production begins, but his datamining efforts have convinced him that Ibex, Deckard, and Roy are genuine products destined for the market.
Some of Lynch's datamining has also revealed details about the "Roy" controller, suggesting it will be highly customizable. Valve, however, has remained tight-lipped, neither confirming nor denying Lynch's discoveries.
When Valve introduced the original Steam Controller in 2015, it aimed to blend the best of console controllers with the precision of a mouse and keyboard. Its dual trackpads offered unprecedented customizability, though the design was divisive. While some appreciated its innovation, others found it challenging, particularly for traditional gaming experiences. Despite this, the Steam Controller played a crucial role in advancing Valve's SteamOS, a Linux-based OS for Steam Machines, which struggled in the market. Valve's shift towards Steam Link, Steam Deck, and Steam Cloud Gaming eventually sidelined the Steam Controller, leaving it popular only among a dedicated fanbase.
The Steam Controller 2 represents an opportunity for Valve to refine its approach, addressing past issues while embracing new technologies and gaming trends. However, Valve isn't alone in this space; Hori recently announced its new Steam controller, the Wireless Horipad for Steam, available for preorder.
Source link: https://www.gamespot.com
