Valve’s new Steam Controller leaks at $99 price tag

The Leak That Vanished—and the Questions It Left Behind

The first indication of an upcoming product emerged when a now-deleted article from Japanese outlet 4Gamer mentioned a potential release date, which aligned with other recent developments from Valve. A video uploaded to Steam was later removed, displaying a message indicating it was not yet available for streaming. Separately, shipping records revealed a large shipment of wireless controllers, which observers noted could signal an impending announcement.

The most debated detail, however, came from a brief online review that included a reported price. Though the review was quickly taken down, screenshots and re-uploads spread across gaming communities. TechPowerUp later reported the same price, describing the controller’s features in comparison to other high-end gaming peripherals, which typically carry a higher cost but are often available at reduced prices.

Valve has not responded to these reports, leaving observers to assess the controller’s proposed features in light of its cost and the company’s past hardware releases.

$99 for a Controller? The Backlash Is Already Here

The reported price has become a central topic of discussion. On Reddit, reactions varied, with some users expressing hesitation about the cost. One comment reflected a common sentiment: after reviewing the details, they were not convinced it was worth the investment. Others had anticipated a lower price, noting that many gamers might expect a more affordable option.

The original Steam Controller was released at a lower price point, which some saw as appropriate for a product targeting a specific audience. The new version is said to include additional features, such as programmable buttons, dual touchpads, and advanced haptic feedback. However, for those already satisfied with existing controllers in the $50 to $80 range, the higher cost presents a challenge. One user summarized the dilemma: while they had previously been open to spending more, the reported price made them reconsider.

For more on this story, see Valve’s $99 Steam Controller leaks in deleted YouTube review.

The controller’s positioning in the market is also a point of comparison. Other controllers, such as those for the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5, are available at varying price points, with some offering discounts. The reported price places Valve’s controller in a middle tier, neither the most affordable nor the most feature-rich. The discussion has centered on whether the hardware’s capabilities justify its cost, particularly in a market with many alternatives.

Valve’s Hardware Strategy: A Pattern of Delays and Ambition

Valve’s approach to hardware has often involved ambitious projects that have faced challenges. A previous initiative, a console-like device designed to run SteamOS, was introduced but did not gain widespread adoption, with many models eventually discontinued. More recently, the Steam Deck, a handheld gaming device, encountered production delays before finding success in the market.

The new Steam Controller appears to be part of Valve’s ongoing efforts to expand its hardware offerings, though the company’s execution has been inconsistent. For example, another product intended to support high-performance gaming was announced but has not yet been released, with details about its availability remaining unclear. Supply chain issues, which have affected the tech industry broadly, have also impacted Valve’s hardware rollouts. If the current leaks prove accurate, the controller may launch without accompanying hardware, raising questions about Valve’s ability to deliver on its broader vision.

This follows our earlier report, New Steam Controller Price Leak Reveals Costly Upgrade Ahead of Launch.

Valve’s lack of response to these reports has contributed to the uncertainty. The company has previously allowed speculation to build before making official announcements, but in this case, the absence of clarification has led to skepticism. Without confirmation from Valve, the reported details remain unconfirmed, and gamers are left to decide whether to trust the leaks or await an official statement.

What to Watch: The Unboxing Video and the Next Leak

The unprocessed Steam video may offer clues about the controller’s timeline. Its brief appearance on the platform suggests Valve could be preparing for a launch, though the company has not provided further details. If the reported release date is accurate, Valve may need to address pricing concerns and clarify its marketing strategy soon. An official announcement could come in the near future, or the company might allow speculation to continue building.

For now, the reported price remains the primary focus, but the real test will be whether Valve can demonstrate the controller’s value. The features described—such as programmable inputs and advanced feedback—are compelling on paper, but in a market where more affordable options are common, Valve will need to make a strong case for why this product stands out. If it fails to do so, the controller could face challenges similar to those of past hardware projects.

Valve’s next steps will be closely monitored. Whether through an official reveal, a price adjustment, or further delays, the company’s hardware strategy is under scrutiny, and gamers are watching to see how it responds.