Valve unveils $100 Steam Controller in podcast review as Steam Machine delays continue
The new hardware is priced at $100 and described as a distinct input method rather than a traditional gamepad, while discussions on the delayed Steam Machine and current titles like *Pragmata* also feature in the episode.
Engadget has released a new podcast episode in which hosts Devindra Hardawar and Jessica Conditt evaluate the newly unveiled Valve Steam Controller. The discussion centres on whether the device justifies its $100 retail price point and examines its suitability for PC gaming. The hosts note that while the hardware has been officially introduced, specific details regarding release dates or shipping availability were not confirmed during the broadcast.
In the episode, Conditt shares her personal experiences using the controller, offering a practical perspective on its design and functionality. Hardawar and Conditt clarify a key distinction regarding the product, stating that the Steam Controller is not a standard PC gamepad but rather a distinct input method. This positioning suggests a different approach to how users interact with the Steam platform compared to traditional peripheral devices.
The conversation also addresses the status of Valve's broader hardware ambitions, specifically the Steam Machine project. The hosts note that the Steam Machine remains delayed and is not yet available to consumers. This ongoing wait has prompted the company to focus on delivering the Steam Controller as a primary hardware offering in the interim, providing users with a dedicated way to enjoy games on the Steam service.
Beyond the hardware analysis, the podcast episode includes reviews and mentions of several current titles available on the platform. The hosts discuss their experiences with *Pragmata*, *Overwatch 2*, and *Marathon*, providing context for how the new controller might perform with these specific games. These segments offer listeners insight into the current gaming landscape while the Steam Machine project awaits further updates.
The episode, which was produced by Devindra Hardawar with music by Dale North, serves as a comprehensive look at Valve's current hardware strategy. By combining a detailed review of the Steam Controller with updates on the Steam Machine and game reviews, the podcast provides a multifaceted view of the company's direction. The $100 price tag remains a focal point of the discussion, with the hosts weighing the cost against the unique value proposition of the device.
