Hori Unveils Official Steam Controller: Wireless Horipad Brings Steam Deck Features to PC Gaming
In a surprising move, Hori has announced the launch of an officially licensed Steam controller, filling the void left by Valve's discontinued Steam Controller. The new Wireless Horipad for Steam, set to debut in Japan on October 31st, aims to bridge the gap between PC and console gaming while incorporating some unique features from the Steam Deck.
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| Promotional graphic for the new Wireless Horipad for Steam, illustrating its sleek design and features |
Key Features and Design
The Wireless Horipad for Steam boasts several noteworthy features:
- Dual Connectivity: Supports both Bluetooth wireless and USB-C wired connections
- Steam Deck-Inspired Controls: Includes menu buttons and gyro controls activated by touch sensors on the analog sticks
- Customization: Four programmable buttons (two on the rear, two on the front) for personalized gaming experiences
- Compatibility: Toggles between Steam and XInput modes
- Color Options: Available in black, white, neon yellow, and violet
What's Missing?
Despite its official status, the Wireless Horipad lacks some features found in Valve's original Steam Controller and the Steam Deck:
- No haptic feedback (rumble)
- Absence of the signature Steam Controller trackpads
- Only two back buttons compared to the Steam Deck's four
Pricing and Availability
The Wireless Horipad for Steam is priced at ¥7,890 (approximately $50 USD), positioning it as a mid-range option in the controller market. Initially, the device will only be available in Japan, with no immediate plans announced for international release.
The Future of Steam Controllers?
This release could signal a new era for Steam-branded peripherals, potentially paving the way for a diverse ecosystem of licensed controllers similar to what we see in the Xbox market. As Valve's recent statistics show an increase in gamepad usage on Steam, this move seems well-timed to capitalize on the growing demand for PC-centric controllers.
While the Wireless Horipad for Steam may not be a direct successor to Valve's experimental Steam Controller, it represents an interesting fusion of traditional gamepad design with Steam-specific features. As the PC gaming landscape continues to evolve, particularly in Japan where handhelds are increasingly popular, this new controller could play a significant role in shaping the future of Steam input devices.
For now, PC gamers and Steam Deck enthusiasts outside of Japan will have to wait and see if Hori decides to expand the availability of this intriguing new controller to other markets.