The recent leak of a shipping manifest has stirred excitement among gaming enthusiasts, suggesting that the release of the Steam Controller may be just around the corner. Import data reveals a substantial delivery of “WIRELESS PC CONTROLLER[s]” that has recently arrived in the United States, destined for Valve. This development implies that a significant number of these controllers could soon be on their way to eager customers.
Shipping Details
This particular shipment boasts an impressive total weight of 12,970 kg (28,594 lbs) and comprises 40 packages. While the exact number of controllers contained within remains uncertain, a rough calculation based on the average weight of a controller—approximately 300g—suggests that there could be over 40,000 units in transit. However, it’s essential to note that there is a possibility that this shipment may not exclusively contain the latest iteration of Valve’s gaming controller. Yet, if one were to wager, the odds would favor this being the case.
Interestingly, the shipment is noted to have utilized only a single container for transportation. This raises intriguing questions about the precarious nature of product launches; one can only imagine the implications had that solitary container encountered misfortune during its journey.
The shipment’s country of origin is listed as Taiwan, hinting that the new Steam Controller may have been manufactured there. However, without further information, it remains unclear whether this is the sole origin point, as multiple stages of shipment could have occurred prior to its arrival in the U.S.
Originally brought to light by X user Brad Lynch, the import notification is accessible, although additional details are behind a paywall. Nevertheless, Videocardz.com has managed to secure an image containing these details, providing further insight into this intriguing shipment.
A Legacy of Innovation
The Steam Controller marks Valve’s second venture into the controller market under this name, following the original Steam Controller launched over a decade ago. The first iteration introduced innovative touchpad controls, which have been adapted in the new model to function similarly to a mouse touchpad, offering gamers a precise method of input through a controller.
While the original Steam Controller is estimated to have sold over 1.5 million units, it was discontinued in 2019, leaving fans wondering about a successor. That uncertainty was dispelled when Valve announced the new Steam Controller, alongside the Steam Frame VR headset and the Steam Machine mini gaming PC.
Design and Features
The new Steam Controller departs from the single thumbstick design of its predecessor, opting instead for a dual-stick configuration arranged symmetrically, akin to a PlayStation controller. This choice, while bold given the popularity of the asymmetrical Xbox-style layout, allows Valve to incorporate two smaller touchpads conveniently positioned for thumb access.
In addition to its innovative design, the new Steam Controller is equipped with both Bluetooth and USB wireless dongle connectivity, supports gyro input, and features “high definition rumble.” As anticipation builds for the official launch date, many, including those who missed the opportunity to experience the original, eagerly await the chance to test this new offering from Valve.
