Steam Controller review leaks, but price of Steam Machine accessory may disappoint

Recent leaks about Valve’s new controller suggested its release date was approaching. Sure enough, a Steam Controller review has surfaced from the YouTube channel Techy Talk. Although the video is now offline, gamers finally have first impressions of the Steam Machine companion. While more than satisfying the reviewer, the accessory’s $99.99 price is higher than some fans expected.

Valve could provide an update imminently 

It’s assumed that Techy Talk mistakenly shared the video before the embargo expires. Fortunately, Redditor Left4pillz uploaded his thoughts to a third-party hosting site. It remains unclear when the PC controller will ship, but an official announcement will likely come soon.

Much of the Steam Controller review focused on its dual trackpads, which aim to make the Steam Machine more accessible. By default, the right pad serves as a cursor, while the left pad provides scrolling functionality. The YouTuber found that they felt natural to use, even if they can’t replace a gaming mouse.

An advantage over the stock PS5 and Xbox controllers, Valve’s peripheral includes TMR thumbsticks. Stick drift should not be an issue, and Techy Talk appreciated their smooth movements. He also noted that the larger clicky D-pad is a major upgrade over the discontinued predecessor.

The review also tried to alleviate fears that the wireless controller was not ergonomically friendly. It comfortably sat in the tester’s hands, but there are no rubber grips on its handles. That could result in some slipping during intense gameplay.

Is the Steam Controller priced right?

Despite a missing analog headphone jack, Techy Talk gave Valve’s latest innovation high ratings. That said, he admitted that the cost will be an obstacle for some buyers. Unlike alternatives bundled with Sony and Microsoft’s consoles, it offers 4 additional rear buttons. Still, compared to the most expensive gear, physical customization is limited, with no ability to swap components.

The $99.99 Steam Controller price places it between the Xbox Core, DualSense, and pro-grade competitors.  Buyers may find that the dual trackpads alone make it worth the investment. Nevertheless, the MSRP could signal that the Steam Machine itself will have more premium pricing.

TechyTalk did not provide clues about the Frame VR headset or Steam Machine release dates. Not hindered by the memory shortage, new leaks hinted that the PC controller would debut first.