There’s a buzz in the gaming world about a potential new entry into Valve’s hardware lineup: a revamped Steam Controller, possibly named “Ibex,” that could shake up the market with a design that echoes popular console controllers. This potential new gadget seems tailored to work seamlessly with Valve’s hit product, the Steam Deck, offering gamers a cohesive experience.
Recently, a fresh leak has surfaced, hinting at a redesigned version of the Steam Controller. This latest iteration seems to be a significant overhaul from its predecessor, potentially positioning it for much greater success in the gaming community.
Valve has a mixed track record when it comes to hardware and gaming peripherals, hitting a high note with the Steam Deck’s popularity. Both versions of this portable gaming device have been flying off the shelves, marking a significant win for the company outside of its renowned PC gaming platform. However, not everything has gone according to plan for Valve, with the original Steam Controller and the Steam Machine eventually bowing out of the market.
Exciting news has come our way, suggesting that a redesigned Steam Controller, carrying the codename Ibex, might soon make its debut. Valve insider and YouTuber Brad Lynch has brought this to light, sharing a thumbnail that was discovered within SteamVR drivers. Despite its limited details, this thumbnail reveals some noteworthy updates: repositioned buttons, the addition of a second control stick, and the introduction of two touchpads. These changes align the Ibex controller with the aesthetic of current favorites like the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, albeit with a taller silhouette due to the touchpads.
So why would Valve venture into the controller arena again after the earlier model’s lukewarm reception? The answer could lie in the synergy with the Steam Deck. While the Steam Deck is a standalone portable powerhouse, a purpose-built controller that meshes well with it might be just the ticket for those who love playing on bigger screens. The new controller’s similar design elements, especially featuring dual touchpads, aim to bring precision to games traditionally tailored for mouse inputs.
Lynch has hinted that this new controller could be rolling off production lines at Valve’s factories soon. The presence of the thumbnail in SteamVR might suggest Valve is nearing an official announcement about the controller’s debut, pricing, and availability. With controller use on Steam reportedly on the rise, the timing couldn’t be better for Valve to make its move. For now, enthusiasts will have to remain patient, but hopefully, Valve won’t keep gamers waiting too long.
