Steam Controller Review: Trackpads Change Everything for PC Gaming Valve’s redesigned Steam Controller introduces a new approach to PC gaming by replacing traditional joysticks with trackpads, offering a unique experience for players seeking comfort while gaming on the couch. The controller, priced near $100, is part of Valve’s broader hardware ecosystem, including the Steam Machine and upcoming Steam Frame VR headset. While its exact release date remains unspecified, the device represents a significant shift in how PC gamers interact with their systems. The controller’s design diverges from its 2015 predecessor, which featured large satellite dish trackpads and a bowl-shaped body that alienated some users. The new version adopts a more familiar form factor, resembling the PS5 DualSense controller in size and weight, though its trackpads push the thumbsticks upward, creating a distinctive layout. The controller weighs 292 grams and includes a larger 8.39 Wh battery, along with a magnetic charging puck that serves as its 2.4GHz connection point. However, the puck’s one-way connection mechanism can complicate setup for users with specific desk arrangements. Valve emphasizes the trackpads’ versatility, allowing them to function as either a mouse or thumbstick alternative. This feature is particularly beneficial for genres like real-time strategy (RTS) and CRPGs, where precise control is essential. For example, the reviewer successfully navigated Total War: Warhammer III by assigning the right trackpad to zoom and select units, while the left and right triggers mimicked mouse clicks. However, customizing control schemes for each game remains a necessary task, requiring users to adjust settings in Steam’s controller configuration tool.#steam_controller #valve #total_war_warhammer_iii #crusader_kings_iii #baldurs_gate_iii
Valve Says New Steam Machine, Controller, and Frame Will Still Land in 2026 Valve has confirmed that its long-awaited second-generation Steam Machine, along with the next-gen Steam Controller and Steam Frame, will still be released in 2026. Despite initial concerns raised in a now-deleted blog post that highlighted challenges due to current memory shortages, the company has reaffirmed its commitment to launching all three products this year. The gaming company initially planned to release the Steam Machine in early 2026, but recent updates have suggested the launch may be delayed. In a blog post, Valve mentioned that memory and storage shortages have created difficulties for the project. However, the post was later removed from the company's website, and Valve updated it to state that it will be shipping all three products this year. The Steam Machine is a portable mini PC designed to allow users to play games from their Steam library on their TV screen. It runs on a Linux-based operating system similar to the one used on the Steam Deck. The device was announced alongside the next-gen Steam Controller and the Steam Frame, a VR headset that positions Valve as a competitor to headsets like the Meta Quest. Even if the Steam Machine is released this year, it will still be delayed from the original planned rollout in early January 2026. Valve's PR representative, Kaci Aitchison Boyle, addressed the concerns by stating that nothing has changed on the company's end. The global chip shortage is expected to persist for some time, with Nvidia's finance chief, Colette Kress, predicting that the shortage of gaming chips will last until the end of 2026. This is due to increased demand from the AI industry, which has outstripped demand from console sales.#valve #steam_machine #steam_controller #steam_frame #kaci_aitchison_boyle
