Valve launched its gaming controller in 2015. The gaming peripheral was launched under Steam Machines Initiatives. The controller was launched to compete with Xbox and Sony PlayStation. It was designed not only for games developed for controller users but also for games traditionally played with keyboard and mouse controls so that they can be played through the controller.
But, after 4 years valve is discontinuing the production of Steam Controller with the last sale. The company has dropped the price to $5, which is almost 90% drop. The Steam Store says the controller ships within 4-8 business days but “Delays are expected on new orders due to very high volume.”
Steam Machines largely failed for being too high of a price to entice console gamers and too difficult to upgrade for PC users. People with Xbox and Playstation did not want to invest in a new controller while PC gamers were adapting the controller. One more reason for shutting down the production is cloud gaming controllers. These controllers like Google Stadia can be connected on a PC, TV or even on a Mobile phone. Now that streaming technology for gaming is being seriously tested, perhaps a new form of a Steam Controller and Steam Link can be unveiled in the future.
The Steam Controller has a number of features that stand out from the usual controller design. For instance, it’s fully customizable, and its dual trackpads are ideal for different gameplay types. The left trackpad is usable like a controller or a joystick, in case you’re into that classic “rolly” feel.