Valve has openly stated that if Microsoft wishes to incorporate tactile trackpads from the Steam Controller into their future gamepad, the company would have no objections.
In a video interview with Gizmodo, Valve programmer Pierre-Loup Griffais explained that Valve’s earnings are tied to a 30% cut from every Steam sale. More PC users translate to more potential buyers, no matter what controller they use.
The trackpads are positioned below the sticks, allowing users to control the cursor from a couch as comfortably as using a mouse. One trackpad can be customized for various functions like a mini-menu, a weapon selection wheel, or any other tailored feature such as maps or crafting menus in RPGs.
The anticipated Microsoft Project Helix console is expected to function like a PC. If the company aims to compete in the PC gaming arena, adopting tactile trackpads seems an obvious step. Valve appears supportive of this direction.
“Everything we do is aimed at enhancing PC gaming’s value, and we don’t mind if others replicate it. More ways to play great games mean a win for us too, as some players are bound to join Steam,” Griffais added.
Jeff Mucha, a Valve engineer, elaborated on the trackpads’ function: the vibration responds to finger movement speed. A swift swipe over the trackpad keeps the cursor moving due to inertia, halting only with perceived resistance. Mucha described this as “brain training,” as players eventually stop looking at the controller while gaming. Newer chip components have been used, reducing latency compared to the 2015 Steam Controller. The technology remains largely the same but has undergone significant improvements.
Releasing on May 4th for $99, the Steam Controller is limited to the Steam ecosystem. Windows identifies it as a mouse and keyboard due to the lack of XInput support, Microsoft’s standard API for gamepads. Adding Xbox Game Pass games to Steam is nearly impossible, as executable files of Xbox applications are inaccessible to ordinary users—a deliberate choice.
“Everything we do is aimed at enhancing PC gaming’s value, and we don’t mind if others replicate it. More ways to play great games mean a win for us too, as some players are bound to join Steam,” Griffais reiterated.
Valve has confirmed three new Steam Machine devices slated for release in 2026, aligning with their strategic plans.
By browsing this site, you agree to the policies of itc.uaOk
By browsing this site, you agree to the policies of itc.uaOk
What do you think of this article? Votes: That’s nice, let it be! That’s shocking! Unbelievable… It’s infuriating!
What do you think of this article? Votes: That’s nice, let it be! That’s shocking! Unbelievable… It’s infuriating!
What do you think of this article? Votes: That’s nice, let it be! That’s shocking! Unbelievable… It’s infuriating!
What do you think of this article? Votes: That’s nice, let it be! That’s shocking! Unbelievable… It’s infuriating!
That’s nice, let it be! That’s shocking! Unbelievable… It’s infuriating!
Залишити відповідь