Nearly five years after discontinuing the experimental Steam Controller, Valve is introducing a new officially licensed gamepad for Steam. However, this time, Valve is not making the controller. The new device, the Wireless Horipad for Steam, was created by Hori and was initially exclusive to Japan.
Features and functionality
The Wireless Horipad for Steam offers a design and features catering to PC gamers. It matches the Steam Deck's menu buttons and includes touch sensors atop its sticks for activating gyro controls. It also supports Bluetooth wireless and USB-C wired connections, providing flexibility for different gaming setups. The controller is also highly customisable through Hori's software, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences.
Despite these features, it's important to note that the Wireless Horipad is not a direct successor to the Steam Controller. It lacks several key elements that defined its predecessor, such as rumble feedback, a complete set of four back buttons, and the Steam Controller's distinctive trackpads.
Availability and pricing
The new controller will be available in Japan starting on October 31, and it will be priced at 7,890 yen (approximately US$50). It comes in four colours: black, white, neon yellow, and violet. More information is needed on whether the Wireless Horipad will be available in the United States or other regions. However, the design strongly resembles the wired Horipad Pro available for Xbox consoles.
Having tested the Horipad Pro for an Xbox controller buying guide, I found it to have decent ergonomics and an excellent D-pad, although other cheaper options somewhat overshadowed it. The Wireless Horipad offers more advanced features, including wireless functionality, albeit limited to Bluetooth, which can be less reliable than a USB wireless dongle.
The Steam version also includes four programmable buttons, although they are positioned differently than the Steam Deck. Two buttons are on the back, the other two on the front, below the D-pad, and the right thumbstick.
The rising popularity of gamepads in Japan
Valve's decision to first collaborate with Hori and launch the controller in Japan is a strategic move. It reflects the growing popularity of PC gaming in Japan, where handheld devices are particularly popular. This trend is so significant that Valve has partnered with another company to distribute the Steam Deck in Japan, including offering in-store availability.
Valve's recent statistics show that gamepad usage on Steam is increasing. Alongside these numbers, Valve has introduced new controller optimisations in Steam, potentially paving the way for a variety of licensed Steam controllers from different manufacturers, similar to the Xbox console market. This trend could bring more wireless options to Steam users in the future.
The Wireless Horipad is highly anticipated, and many, including myself, are eager to test it out. Whether it becomes a widely available staple for Steam gaming remains to be seen, but its initial release marks an exciting development for PC gamers.
