As a frequent user of my computer as a TV PC, the new Steam Controller appeared to be the perfect solution, promising to replace both my DualSense controller and mini multimedia keyboard with a single device. After two weeks of hands-on experience with Valve’s latest offering, I see immense potential in the controller, though it is somewhat hindered by its unintuitive software.
Trackpads and Desktop Navigation
The standout feature of Valve’s controller is undoubtedly its trackpads, which serve as a mouse and keyboard substitute. These trackpads provide a level of precision for desktop browsing that joysticks simply cannot match. The left trackpad is dedicated to scrolling, while the right trackpad controls the mouse pointer. A simple button press brings up the on-screen keyboard, allowing users to navigate and type using the trackpads.
Upon powering up the Steam Controller, it defaults to a desktop configuration, presuming that users will not immediately enter Steam Big Picture mode. Unfortunately, this default setup is not user-friendly, compelling users to either memorize the button layout or create a custom configuration from scratch. While it is fair to acknowledge the challenges of designing an intuitive desktop layout for any controller, the initial experience can be frustrating.
Troublesome Customization
My journey into customization was met with hurdles, as Steam refused to allow me to modify the desktop configuration. After hours of troubleshooting, I found myself sifting through years of Reddit threads filled with similar complaints—not just about the Steam Controller, but also the Steam Deck. Like many others, I struggled to assign buttons to different actions, only to have the software revert to its default layout.
Eventually, I stumbled upon the ‘Web Browser’ layout, which surprisingly enabled me to make adjustments. Although I remain uncertain about why this worked, I was relieved to finally see some progress. My first attempt was to create a Task Manager shortcut, but I encountered another setback due to my choice of ‘extra commands’ over ‘sub commands.’ The distinction between these options remains unclear, as Steam offers little guidance.
When I successfully accessed Task Manager through the shortcut, the Steam Controller ceased to respond. The same issue arose when using Alt-Tab, necessitating a switch to a mouse or keyboard. The solution involved running Steam as an administrator, a detail buried in a forum post rather than mentioned in official documentation. Compounding my frustrations, attempting to run Steam in Compatibility Mode led to warnings about potential issues.
Guide Button Chords and Action Sets
In theory, Guide Button Chords should simplify the user experience, yet they fail to function as intended. While I initially attributed this to the controller’s pre-release software, it became evident that other users faced similar challenges with various controllers in Steam. My attempts to create a detailed layout for Slay the Spire 2 were thwarted by the inability to import configurations to other games without overwriting their base settings. This lack of clarity regarding Action Sets, which are game-specific, resulted in a significant waste of time.
Despite the presence of a dedicated Quick Access Menu button, the inability to customize its function is perplexing. Ideally, this button would allow users to toggle between desktop and game layouts, yet this option is conspicuously absent. I have pressed this button only twice since acquiring the controller, rendering it largely ineffective in its current form. For a device designed with customizability in mind, Valve’s restrictions on button modifications are puzzling.
Overall Experience
Setting up the Steam Controller to align with my vision for a TV PC took several hours, but the underlying issue remains: even if the software functioned flawlessly, the process would still be cumbersome. Valve must improve its explanations of Steam Guide Button Chords and Action Layers, as these features fundamentally alter the controller’s usability. It is frustrating that so many valuable functions are obscured, leaving users struggling to unlock the Steam Controller’s full potential.
On a positive note, when utilized without extensive customization, the controller performs exceptionally well. The battery life is impressive, input lag is virtually non-existent, and its comfort level has led it to replace all of my previous controllers. However, I sincerely hope that Valve dedicates time to enhancing the accessibility of its customization options, ultimately broadening the controller’s appeal to a wider audience.
