Leak: Valve Is Working on a New Steam Controller

Valve seems to be giving the Steam Controller another shot. According to a recent leak, the company is developing a new version, codenamed Ibex, which features significant design changes. If done right, this could be Valve’s chance to turn the idea into a success story after the original controller’s lukewarm reception.

Let’s be real—the original Steam Controller was ambitious but awkward. It had its fans, but it didn’t quite catch on, much like Valve’s other hardware experiment, the Steam Machine. Now, with the massive success of the Steam Deck, it looks like Valve is ready to revisit the idea of a controller, and this time, they might have a better shot.

The leaked design, uncovered by YouTube insider Brad Lynch, shows a more polished approach. The Ibex features an extra joystick, an updated button layout, and two touchpads, blending traditional control elements with Valve’s love for experimental inputs. Some have compared it to the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, but the added touchpads give it a unique flair—and make it slightly bulkier.

Why now? Well, it’s all about the momentum of the Steam Deck. Many users are already connecting their Decks to TVs or external monitors, so a dedicated controller makes perfect sense. The Ibex could offer a more precise gaming experience for those who want the best of both handheld and big-screen setups.

Rumor has it that Valve is close to announcing the controller officially, with pricing and availability details expected soon. Considering the growing popularity of controllers in PC gaming, this feels like a smart move.

As someone who remembers the original Steam Controller fondly (even if it felt like I needed a manual to use it properly), I’m cautiously optimistic about this new version. Valve has learned a lot from their hits and misses, and if the Ibex combines the flexibility of touchpads with the comfort of a traditional controller, it could be a real game-changer—literally.

If it pairs seamlessly with the Steam Deck, I’d definitely consider it. What about you? Is this the controller revival we’ve been waiting for?