Five years after the discontinuation of the experimental Steam Controller, there is a renewed sense of excitement in the gaming community with the announcement of a new officially licensed gamepad for Steam. The Wireless Horipad for Steam, manufactured by Hori, is set to launch in Japan on October 31st. This PC-centric controller boasts features such as Bluetooth wireless and USB-C wired connections, along with custom programmability using Hori’s software. While it shares similarities with the Steam Deck, it is important to note that it is not a direct successor to the original Steam Controller.
The Wireless Horipad for Steam comes in four vibrant colors – black, white, neon yellow, and violet – and is priced at 7,890 yen (approximately $50). Unlike its predecessor, the new controller lacks rumble functionality, a matching set of four back buttons, and the signature trackpads that were synonymous with the Steam Controller. However, it does feature touch sensors atop its sticks to activate gyro controls, making it a versatile option for gamers looking for a unique playing experience.
One of the standout features of the Wireless Horipad is its wireless capability, offering players the freedom to game without being tethered to their device. The controller also includes four programmable buttons, two of which are located on the rear and the other two positioned below the D-pad and on the right thumbstick. While the controller is currently only available in Japan, there is speculation about a potential global release in the future.
The decision to release the Wireless Horipad exclusively in Japan may be indicative of the growing popularity of PC gaming in the country. With handheld gaming devices gaining traction in the Japanese market, it’s no surprise that Valve has chosen to partner with Hori for the distribution of the Steam Deck. Additionally, statistics released by Valve show a rising trend in gamepad usage on Steam, hinting at a potential influx of licensed controllers from various manufacturers in the near future.
As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, the introduction of the Wireless Horipad for Steam marks a significant step towards revitalizing the Steam Controller ecosystem. While the controller may not be a direct successor to the original Steam Controller, it offers a fresh perspective on gamepad design and functionality. With its wireless capabilities and customizable features, the Wireless Horipad has the potential to become a popular choice among gamers worldwide.
The release of the Wireless Horipad for Steam represents a new chapter in the evolution of Steam Controllers. While it may not be without its shortcomings, such as the absence of certain features present in the original Steam Controller, the Wireless Horipad offers a glimpse into the future of gaming peripherals. As Valve and its partners continue to innovate in the realm of game controllers, we can expect to see a diverse range of options catering to the needs of gamers across the globe.
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