New Steam controller does not come from Valve: Wireless Horipad for Steam

The first officially licensed Steam controller since the end of Valve’s own gamepad four years ago, the Wireless Horipad for Steam, has just been announced. This new controller is intended to improve the gaming experience on the PC via Steam and is reminiscent of the Steam Deck OLED (our test) in terms of operation.

• Button layout: Based on the Steam Deck, including analog sticks with motion control.
• Connection: Via Bluetooth or USB-C cable.
• Customizability: Configurable rear paddles and additional buttons.
• Price: Around 46 euros in Japan.

Design and functionality

The Wireless Horipad for Steam has a layout similar to that of the Steam Deck. The analog sticks recognize touch and enable the activation of motion control. A special Steam button allows quick access to the Big Picture mode and the Steam menu.

An outstanding feature are the configurable paddles on the back, which offer gamers an additional customization option. Furthermore, two additional buttons are integrated at the bottom of the front, which can also be individually assigned.

The button assignment can be customized either directly in Steam or via a dedicated app. This makes the controller particularly flexible for different game genres and individual preferences.

Technical specifications

The controller supports both a wireless connection via Bluetooth and a wired connection via a USB-C cable. The button assignment can be customized either directly in Steam or via a special app. The controller’s triggers support both analog and digital modes, making it versatile for different types of games, from racing games to shooters. Unfortunately, Hori has not provided the affordable gamepad with a vibration motor.

Availability and price

The Wireless Horipad for Steam is currently available exclusively in Japan and costs around 7,980 yen, which corresponds to around 46 euros. Information on availability in other regions is not yet available. Interested buyers can find further details on the manufacturer’s website.

Conclusion

The Wireless Horipad for Steam is an exciting new addition for PC gamers looking to bring the Steam Deck feel to their gaming PC. With its versatile customization options and user-friendly design, this controller could be an attractive choice for many gamers. However, the exclusive availability in Japan and the lack of a vibration motor are points that potential buyers should consider.