Steam users have long wanted Valve to revisit the idea of creating a dedicated gaming controller. The company’s first attempt, the Steam Controller, was discontinued in 2019, leaving a gap in Valve’s hardware lineup that fans have been eager to see filled.
According to a recent leak, the Valve might be ready to revisit the concept. Brad Lynch, a well-known enthusiast and insider in the Valve and Steam community, recently shared an intriguing update on X (formerly Twitter). Lynch revealed that a new controller, the “Steam Controller 2,” is currently in the tooling phase for mass production. This new device reportedly carries the codename “Ibex,” named after the agile wild mountain goat. Could this playful codename hint at the controller being the “greatest of all time” or “GOAT,” as the gaming community often says? It’s a tantalizing possibility.
Lynch’s post didn’t stop there. In addition to hinting at a follow-up to the Steam Controller, he suggested that Valve may be working on new virtual reality controllers. This aligns with Valve’s continued interest in VR technology, particularly after the success of the Valve Index. If true, these developments suggest that Valve is doubling its commitment to enhancing hardware for gaming enthusiasts.
However exciting these leaks may sound, it’s essential to approach them cautiously. Valve has not confirmed or commented on these rumors; leaks can often be incomplete or speculative. Gamers should temper their expectations until Valve makes an official announcement.
The original Steam Controller was a bold experiment in gaming hardware. Its unique touchpad design and customizable inputs were praised for their versatility, but the controller ultimately needed to gain widespread adoption. Its discontinuation in 2019 signals the end of Valve’s foray into traditional gaming controllers. However, a potential Steam Controller 2 offers the company a chance to refine its original concept and address the criticisms that hampered the first iteration.
For fans of Valve and PC gaming in general, the prospect of a new controller is exciting. A well-designed device tailored for Steam’s ecosystem could fill a niche in the market, especially if it builds on the innovative features of its predecessor. Moreover, if Valve can seamlessly integrate this new controller with its existing platforms, such as the Steam Deck and VR systems, it could become a must-have accessory for gamers.
Valve might surprise everyone with a cutting-edge design that elevates the gaming experience if the rumors hold true. For now, though, we’ll have to wait and see if “Ibex” leaps from rumor to reality.