The Teardown: Steam Controller

The Steam Controller is a key part of Valve's attempt to extend its cloud-based PC gaming business to the TV screen, more directly challenging platforms such as the Xbox, PlayStation and Wii. Licensed versions of Valve's Steam Machine PC gaming platform already feature HDMI output, and the operating system includes a Big Picture mode that optimises the experience for your television. After some delay, the controller joins this line-up, primarily as a wireless replacement for the keyboard and mouse. It is all about the ergonomics of dropping yourself comfortably on the couch and getting at least as good a gaming experience as you would in front of a PC workstation-based set-up. To that end, the Steam Controller incorporates two highly sensitive and responsive haptic pads that are intended to do much of what a mouse has traditionally accomplished, as well as a single joystick and series of programmable buttons. Front-mounted dual triggers also feature.