Hori Brings Its Officially Licensed Steam Controller to the US

Hori, a well-known brand among gamers, is set to launch its official Steam controller in the US, priced at just $60. This eagerly anticipated gamepad is specifically designed to enhance the gaming experience on Steam, offering users dedicated buttons for easy access to menus.

Hori’s official Steam controller makes its way to US gamers.

Available for preorder on Amazon, the controller will officially hit the shelves on December 16th, marking a significant step for Hori after previously launching the Wireless Horipad exclusively in Japan last October. This gamepad mimics the popular Steam Deck’s design, featuring touch sensors on the joysticks providing enhanced motion control capabilities, along with mappable back buttons.

Connection and Features

The Hori controller can be seamlessly connected to PCs or the Steam Deck using Bluetooth, along with a USB-A Bluetooth receiver that comes included. With impressive battery life, it can last up to 12 hours on a full charge, while users can also continue gaming while plugged in using the USB cable. This flexibility is particularly useful for game marathon sessions.

“The ability to remap buttons and tweak joystick sensitivity and gyro controls directly through Steam is a huge advantage,” noted a representative from Hori, showcasing the brand’s commitment to delivering an enhanced gaming experience.

While the gamepad boasts many features, it does lack certain expectations typically found in high-end controllers, such as a headset jack, rumble feedback, and trackpads. Nevertheless, it positions itself effectively as a complementary accessory for the Steam ecosystem. Hori’s controller could particularly appeal to gamers who enjoy the Steam Deck but prefer a more traditional gamepad layout.

The Hori controller combines function and design for gamers.

A Need for Innovation

It’s worth noting that the controller arrives at a time when Valve has notably stepped back from its hardware ventures. Fans of the ultra-customizable Steam controller, which was discontinued in 2019, may find themselves yearning for the kind of deep customization that Valve offered in the past. This new Hori controller represents an opportunity for gamers to explore the Steam platform with a refreshed tool that retains essential functionalities, albeit with limitations.

Hori’s new controller is likely to resonate with a wide audience of gamers, including those who primarily engage with handheld gaming or value straightforward, functional devices without unnecessary bells and whistles. As the gaming community looks for ways to enhance their setup, the Hori controller may become a staple in the modern gamer’s toolkit.

The back of the Hori controller, featuring customizable elements.

Conclusion

As we approach the holiday shopping season, the introduction of the Hori Steam controller serves as an exciting development for handheld gaming enthusiasts. With competitive pricing and a solid feature set, it represents a valuable option for gamers looking for quality gear to enjoy their Steam library. Mark your calendars for its launch date, and get ready to elevate your portable gaming experience!