The Latest Innovation: Wireless Horipad for Steam Launch

Introduction

Nearly five years after Valve discontinued its experimental Steam Controller, a new officially licensed gamepad for Steam is on the way. The new controller is made by HORI, and its only coming to Japan (at least for now). HORI, a manufacturer of popular gaming accessories, has today revealed the Wireless Horipad for Steam. So if you're in need of a gamepad, this might be for you.

Features of the Wireless Horipad for Steam

Dubbed the Wireless Horipad for Steam, the PC-centric controller matches the Steam Decks menu buttons and has similar touch sensors atop its sticks to activate gyro controls. It also supports Bluetooth wireless and USB-C wired connections as well as a whole bunch of custom programmability using HORI's software. Features of the Wireless Horipad for Steam include back paddles and 2 extra custom buttons right on the bottom, a dedicated Quick Access button, support for Bluetooth, XInput, and DirectInput, Gyro in the "Steam mode", and rapid fire ability on face buttons (ABXY). The estimated battery life is 12 hours with 3.5 hours to fully charge.

Pricing and Availability

The new controller is set to launch in Japan on October 31st in four colors (black, white, neon yellow, and violet), selling for 7,890 yen (about $50). So far, it seems to be only announced via their Japanese store with no mention on their USA or UK stores. Price according to their page is 9,780 Japanese Yen, so about 50 GBP / $60 USD. Theres no word yet if this new Steam controller is coming to the US or elsewhere.

Valve's Support for the Wireless Horipad

In a news post about Steam Input, Valve confirmed they have added support for the new HORIPAD for Steam and they "worked with HORI's team to make their controller work well with Steam Input." While it seems long overdue for Valve to once again have a branded go-to gamepad for Steam and docked Steam Deck use, we'll have to wait to see if or when it becomes more widely available. Horis decision to start sales in its home country makes sense, but it may also speak to the rise of PC gaming in Japan, with handhelds being such a popular choice there that Valve spun up a partnership with an entirely different company for Steam Deck distribution (including in-store availability).