Steam Controller: what makes it both the most and least versatile for PC

Steam Controller review highlights comfort, customization, and limitations outside of Steam, including non-Steam compatibility and the lack of XInput.

The Steam Controller is Valve's latest physical product and is already appearing out of stock, with scalpers charging up to three times the original price. Valve promises more units soon, fueling the question: is it worth trading your current controller for this new peripheral?

Comfort and layout in practice

Despite its dimensions, the controller is surprisingly comfortable. Hands rest well on the sticks and triggers, allowing for long sessions without fatigue.

Those who use the Xbox layout may find the position of the sticks strange, but the adaptation is usually quick, and in a few minutes, you get used to it.

Features that grab attention

In addition to the standard buttons, the Steam Controller brings four customizable buttons under the grips and two trackpads that function as a mouse, similar to the Steam Deck.

The trackpads allow for controlling the cursor in games that require this feature and help with the camera, with haptic feedback when you run your finger over them.

Gyro, touch, and customization

The gyro can be mapped to various functions, including the mouse, and can be activated by buttons or by touching the top of the sticks.

There are two unique forms of activation: Grip Sense, by squeezing the grips, and touch activation on the tip of the sticks. Each method has pros and cons depending on the game.

Mapping and exclusive Steam usage

The great advantage is customization: it is possible to assign keyboard inputs to buttons, create combinations, and even transform trackpad directions into a radial menu.

On the other hand, the Steam Controller is not recognized as a traditional joystick by Windows. It functions as a keyboard/mouse via Steam Input, which can make it difficult to use in apps outside of Steam.

Compatibility outside of Steam and workarounds

For games outside of Steam, there are workarounds, such as adding non-Steam launchers to Steam. In some cases it works, in others there is no guarantee of functionality.

For example, in Forza Horizon 5 via the Xbox App, it is possible to start the game, but not fully control the vehicle, and certain shortcuts may open menus on the screen. This reinforces the idea that the controller is more suited to the Steam ecosystem.

The absence of a headset port

There is no 3.5mm headphone jack on the Steam Controller, which may be relevant for those who rely on a headset connected to the controller in TV setups or in Big Picture mode.

Is it worth it? The trinity of the Steam Controller

The text explores the Steam Controller from three angles: as a Steam Controller, as a STEAM Controller, and as a Steam CONTROLLER. In short: for those who only play on Steam, with maximum customization and comfort, it may be the definitive choice. For those who use multiple stores or prefer plug-and-play, it may not make sense, and for those who don't usually play with a gamepad, it might be unnecessary.

Verdict

In the end, the Steam Controller is an ingenious design, but with real limitations for those who play outside of Steam. It is excellent for those who use Steam Big Picture, but it does not replace a mouse and keyboard for those sitting at the PC.

It is, in essence, a demonstration that the device can be both the best and worst option, depending on your gaming ecosystem.

What is your experience with the Steam Controller? Could you adapt it to your gaming ecosystem outside of Steam, or do you prefer to keep a dedicated controller for non-Steam games?

Veja mais artigos como Steam Controller: what makes it both the most and least versatile for PC na categoria News.