The Latest From Horipad: The Closest Thing to a New Steam Controller
The Steam Controller sparked mixed feelings among gamers, but it served as the foundation for innovative features like touchpads, rear buttons, and haptics that eventually influenced Valve’s Steam Deck. While Valve hasn’t produced a successor to its 2015 wireless gamepad, peripheral manufacturer Hori has stepped up to the plate. The new $59.99 wireless Horipad, available for pre-order on Amazon (launching Dec. 16), proudly displays the Steam logo as a home button, making it a strong contender for the title of the closest thing to a new Steam Controller. Notably, this controller borrows key features from the Steam Deck that users will appreciate.
Features Mimicking the Steam Deck
One standout feature of the Horipad for Steam is its capacitive thumbsticks, similar to those found on the Steam Deck. These thumbsticks can detect if your thumb is resting on them, allowing for custom functions to be programmed using Steam’s controller customization tools. This includes capabilities like gyroscopic aiming, a feature fully supported by the controller. With most of the essential buttons found on the Steam Deck replicated on the Horipad, including system-level buttons and two pairs of mappable macro buttons, users will feel right at home. While the Steam Deck places both pairs of buttons on the back near the grips, the Horipad positions one pair on the front (below the D-pad and right stick) and the other pair on the back.
Functionality and Connectivity
The Horipad for Steam offers Bluetooth connectivity, making it compatible with a range of devices. Additionally, when connected to a computer using the included 9.8-foot USB cable, it can function as an XInput controller. Users can easily switch between wireless and wired modes using a switch on the back of the controller. Another switch allows for toggling between analog and digital triggers. However, some features are missing from the Horipad, such as rumble support, trackpads, and a headphone jack.
Verdict and Conclusion
Priced reasonably, the Horipad for Steam presents a competent option for gamers looking for a new controller. However, if you already have a preferred gamepad for your consoles that you use with Steam or a Steam Deck, you may not find this controller essential. An early review by former Verge colleague Sam Byford on his blog Multicore described the Horipad as intriguing but not particularly impressive. Regardless, the Horipad for Steam offers a solid choice for those in need of a new controller option.