After years of waiting, Valve has released a new Steam Controller, and while it's not flawless, I'm already planning to buy one. The controller promises the deep customization and functionality of the Steam Deck, adapted for TV gaming.
"I've been looking for a controller that would match the customization and sheer level of function available on Valve's Steam Deck, and Valve delivered," says Jay Peters, senior reporter at The Verge.
Peters had a brief hands-on with the controller last year, calling it a potential dream controller. The new version aims to bring the Steam Deck's versatile input options—trackpads, gyro, and extensive remapping—to a traditional gamepad form factor. Early impressions suggest it succeeds in many ways, though some compromises remain.
Despite its imperfections, Peters notes that the controller fills a unique niche for PC gamers who want console-like convenience without sacrificing control. The device is part of Valve's broader push into hardware, alongside the revived Steam Machines initiative.
For now, the Steam Controller 2.0 appears to be a niche product that its target audience will love—warts and all.