It looks like tech channel TechyTalk on YouTube has accidentally jumped the gun on their coverage of the upcoming Steam Controller, publishing and subsequently pulling a video review of Valve’s new gadget that has yet to be formally priced and dated.
Hey, it happens to the best of us!
What this little embargo slip has taught us, though, is that the Steam Controller – which is a product that really says most of what you need to know in the name – will seemingly retail for USD $99. No release date is mentioned, instead the video begins with “The Steam controller is finally here,” suggesting a launch may very well be imminent.
To put it into perspective, that’s about AUD $139 / CAD $134 / £74 / €85 , though given the way global markets work that’s not necessarily indicative of what folks outside of the US will pay for this thing. It’s also USD $25 more than a PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller, $35 more than an Xbox Wireless Controller or USD $10 more than a Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller, all of which are popular existing options for playing Steam games.
Where this thing differs, of course, is in its feature set, sporting TMR thumbsticks, HD rumble, four extra programmable back buttons, six-axis gyro that activates with capacitive touch and Steam Deck-style left and right track pads, situated just below each of the analog sticks. This should open up a world of possibilities not just for playing games that work best with or outright require mouse controls, but also – as TechyTalk’s review points out – simply for comfortably navigating the Steam and Windows experiences in the time before and after your gaming sessions.
The review is overall quite praising of the Steam Controller, calling out responsive and comfortable sticks and buttons, along with good build quality, docking it only for a fairly pedestrian material finish, no audio jack and lack of swappable battery. The inclusion of a wireless dongle that doubles as the controller’s magnetic charging puck also seems like a thoughtful, useful detail.
Hopefully, this early look at the Steam Controller signals that a proper drop of information is on the way, but it really does seem like these are going to be available for purchase in the near future, and by all accounts look like a nice little bit of gear!
What do you think of the Steam Controller’s USD $99 price point? Let us know in the comments or on our social pages!