That niche being: “people who play games on the computer.”
And want to play all of their games on the couch. And want to take the time to make controller mappings. It’s definitely a bit niche, but possibly a large niche.
Not at all. I’m primarily a PC gamer and that price is just a little too steep for me.
I am too—computer and old retro systems only. I have 2xDualsense, 2xXbox (latest) controller, 2xSwitch Pro, and 2xSteam controller for our computers. I’ll definitely be snagging two of these as they have better specs and more features than some of the “elite” or “pro” controllers that cost 1.5x as much or more.
It probably depends on the games you play, but without the touchpads a significant number of pc games just don’t work well for a controller on PC.
I think it has more to do with where you play than what you play.
For PC games at a desk, keyboard and mouse are already the more precise control method. I know that, for myself, I’m only ever using controllers for the types of games where that format is ideal, at which point I don’t need the precision pointing of a mouse let alone a trackpad.
Meanwhile, I wouldn’t consider a handheld without trackpads because the places where I use one would make adding a mouse cumbersome and impractical.
Since getting the Steam Deck, I’ve never really thought to myself “I really wish I could control my mouse without taking my hand off this controller” while sitting at my desk.
IMO the best use-case for the Steam Controller, and particularly its touchpads, is playing from a couch in front of something like a TV or projector, or maybe from a very reclined position at a desk.
As an owner of the original Steam Controller that I still use, shut up and take my money.
Same. It’s funny all the hubbub getting thrown around in reviews and public sentiment from people that don’t fully understand it.
For real. I’ve worn the thumbstick on my steam controller down to the structural plastic, and the battery door is cracked. I have one in a box because I love the thing so much. This is 100% a “once I have the money for it, it will be mine” kind of purchase.
