Steam took to the internet to announce the final piece of their plans yesterday. First we saw the open source SteamOS. Then we were treated to the announcement that Steam Machines are on their way. Finally, Valve let us know on Friday that they have developed a controller meant to do what no controller has ever done. Those opposed may be worried that the Valve fan boys are simply jumping on board with something that won’t deliver on it’s promises. But based on what Valve has shown this controller can do what none other have.
Track Pads: The Steam Pad will use track pads instead of analog sticks. This technology promises to bring the accuracy and speed of a mouse and keyboard to the players thumbs.
Touch Screen: This is an obvious need whether it help control an RTS better, or give gamers a quick way to manage that dungeon crawler, or play a casual game, touch is basically required at this point.
Support for ALL Games: There are games on Steam that do not have game pad support, this game pad makes those titles think it’s a keyboard, and matches inputs perfectly. Everything can use the pad now.
Haptics: Steam will use haptic feed-back, more advanced than standard “rumble” technology. This will help with accuracy and give users the feeling of touching something more than a pad.
The Steam Controller is built around a new generation of super-precise haptic feedback, employing dual linear resonant actuators. These small, strong, weighted electro-magnets are attached to each of the dual trackpads. They are capable of delivering a wide range of force and vibration, allowing precise control over frequency, amplitude, and direction of movement.
Photo: Steam Pad Layout
Steam’s pad is using a lot of design pieces that we have seen in other controllers. It has, of course, been tested extensively and has been reviewed by many developers and embraced by most who use it. The best part is the freedom, this controller requires nothing but Steam. If you have Steam this will work, no Steam Machine required. This is the final announcement from Steam this year, and everything they have mentioned will begin rolling out “soon”. The Steam Pad and Steam Machines will not hit until next year. Now we wait and see what the future holds.