There’s some exciting buzz in the gaming world as a potential new Steam Controller, codenamed Ibex, is on the horizon. Unlike its predecessor, which struggled to find its footing, this redesign seems poised for greater success, echoing the look and feel of popular console controllers.
Valve’s journey into hardware and peripherals has been a rollercoaster with mixed outcomes. Yet some projects like the Steam Deck have been undeniable hits, capturing the market’s attention with impressive sales figures. Not all ventures ended in victory, though—we remember the less triumphant stories of the original Steam Controller and the Steam Machine, which eventually faded away.
Recently, fresh clues have surfaced suggesting that Valve is cooking up a revamped Steam Controller. This insider info from renowned YouTuber Brad Lynch points to a render model thumbnail nestled within the SteamVR drivers. Although not a complete picture, the thumbnail hints at notable changes. The tweaks include a new button layout, an additional control stick, and the inclusion of dual touchpads. This version of the Ibex Steam Controller also seems to draw inspiration from existing gamepad designs, like the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, although it stands taller due to those touchpads.
Some might wonder why Valve would tread this path again with a new controller after the original missed the mark. The answer might lie in the Steam Deck’s success. The Steam Deck, while perfectly playable on its own, could be even more versatile with a compatible controller, especially for users who enjoy gaming on a larger screen. Echoing the Steam Deck’s design, the new controller includes touchpads, aiming to enhance the gaming experience by offering precise movement control, particularly in games originally intended for mouse input.
According to Lynch, Valve may be gearing up for mass production of this sleek new gaming tool. The appearance of the thumbnail in SteamVR suggests an official announcement could be on the horizon. With more and more users turning to controllers for their Steam experience, striking while the trend is hot seems like a smart move. Gamers are holding their breath for Valve’s next big reveal, hopeful for details on availability and price soon.
Valve’s history is rich with innovation, from revolutionizing the digital storefront space back in 2003 to spearheading new ways gamers interact with their favorite titles. Now, with the Ibex on deck, Valve could be ready to redefine gaming peripherals once again.
