Game Controllers
Ongoing coverage on Game Controllers.
Latest coverage
The Scuf Omega costs $220, but my favorite feature can be found in controllers at a fraction of that price
The Scuf Omega controller, priced at $219.99, features mechanical face buttons that offer a crisp and precise actuation, appealing to competitive players. However, the article highlights that similar mechanical button functionality can be found in more affordable PC controllers like the $40 EasySMX X10, offering better value for those prioritizing this specific feature.
Scuf launches new Omega PS5 controller, and would you look at its adorable little ears
Scuf has launched its new officially licensed PlayStation 5 controller, the Scuf Omega, priced at $219.99. This programmable controller features toolless thumbstick swapping, customizable in-app controls, and unique side bumper buttons. While it lacks the DualSense's haptic feedback, it aims to bring PC-level competitive features to the PS5.
I've tested GameSir's 8K wireless controller and it's good but not as good as its cheaper sibling
The GameSir G7 Pro 8K controller offers premium features like 8,000 Hz polling and programmable buttons for $90, but its benefits over the standard G7 Pro are negligible for most players. While it boasts a solid build, comfortable design, and a charging dock, its niche 8K polling rate and higher price point make the cheaper standard model a better value for the average gamer.
Hardware Reviews
This article provides reviews for various PC hardware components, including the Cougar CFV235 case, the Honeycomb Aeronautical Echo Aviation Controller, and a Razer keyboard, discussing their performance and suitability for gaming and office use.
The Steam Controller is all the rage, but I've been distracted by a modern Dreamcast controller that's more…
This article analyzes the evolution of game controllers, drawing parallels between the original Dreamcast controller and Valve's Steam Controller. It highlights how modern designs, like the Retro Fighters StrikerDC for the Dreamcast, reflect historical trends in gamepad development, influencing current console and PC controller layouts.
Control Issues
Valve acknowledges a lack of PC-first gamepads and sees an opportunity with their new Steam Controller. The article discusses the potential market for such peripherals.
I'm not seeing any Crimson Desert-branded controllers yet, but two years later, GameSir has randomly launched a special edition of its best gamepad dedicated to a completely different fantasy RPG with less than 3,000 concurrent players
GameSir has launched a special edition of its G7 Pro controller commemorating Dragon's Dogma 2, despite the game's relatively low concurrent player count and the article's initial focus on the unreleased Crimson Desert. The controller features an amber and black design with a dragon motif, complementing the game's fantasy aesthetic. The article also praises the G7 Pro's overall value and features within the controller market.
Why aren’t there more PC-first gamepads? Valve don’t know, but they "did see an opportunity" for the new Steam Controller
Valve designers Lawrence Yang and Steve Cardinali discuss the lack of PC-first gamepads, noting an opportunity for their new Steam Controller. While acknowledging the dominance of console controllers like the Xbox Wireless Controller and PlayStation 5 DualSense, they believe there's a market for a controller specifically designed for PC gaming, offering features beyond 'good enough'.
Valve developers talk Steam Controller design and what they have learned from making hardware
Valve developers Pierre-Loup Griffais and Jeff Mucha discussed the design process and lessons learned from creating the Steam Controller. The interview touched upon the challenges and insights gained from developing hardware.
Valve is bullish on global Steam Controller availability: 'We have knobs we can turn to try to get things to people…
Valve engineer Steve Cardinali expressed confidence in the global availability of the Steam Controller, stating they have mechanisms to increase production if demand exceeds expectations. Unlike the staggered launch of the Steam Deck, the Steam Controller will be available worldwide simultaneously. The company aims to manage supply to meet anticipated high demand for the new Valve hardware.
Steam Controller Returns From The Dead As Leaked Reviews Reveal May Release Window | HappyGamer
Leaked reviews suggest Valve is preparing to release a successor to the Steam Controller, potentially in May 2026. This new iteration aims to learn from the original's polarizing design and compete directly with PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X controllers. The move aligns with Valve's broader hardware strategy, building on the success of the Steam Deck and strengthening their PC gaming ecosystem.
I've been using Valve's new Steam Controller and for living room gaming there's nothing else like it
The Steam Controller offers a unique approach to PC gaming from the couch, utilizing trackpads and gyro controls to mimic mouse input. While it excels at navigating desktops and playing certain genres like strategy or RPGs, it's not a competitive-focused gamepad. Its functionality is tied to Steam, and while it provides extensive customization, cheaper alternatives exist for those seeking a standard controller experience.
New Steam Controller reportedly $99
A leaked review indicates Valve's new Steam Controller will retail for $99, positioning it in the mid-to-high end of the current controller market. This price point is compared to offerings from major console manufacturers and other third-party controllers, with the new Steam Controller featuring track pads and Hall Effect analogue sticks.
We still have no word about the Steam Machine and Steam Frame, but a Steam Controller unboxing video has emerged that could point to Valve's new gamepad launching soon
A leaked unboxing video for Valve's Steam Controller, discovered on SteamDB, suggests the gamepad may launch soon, despite ongoing delays for the Steam Machine and Steam Frame VR headset. Valve has faced manufacturing and pricing issues for its new hardware, originally slated for an early 2026 release.
There's a new contender for the ugliest video game controller ever made
Microsoft is releasing a limited edition controller and headset for Forza Horizon 6, featuring a vibrant, postmodern design inspired by Japanese Touge roads. The controller, priced at $89.99, and headset, $134.99, are available for pre-order and launch on May 19, coinciding with the game's release. While primarily for Xbox, a PlayStation 5 version is also planned for later this year.
New PS5 controller patent lets you pinch and poke your favourite game characters
Sony has patented a new PlayStation 5 controller design featuring a grid of deformable buttons that can be pinched, twisted, and pulled to enhance immersion. This innovative concept aims to improve tactile feedback beyond the current DualSense controller, though fan reactions have been mixed, with some comparing it to the Bop It toy.
Valve’s Steam Controller launch looks imminent based on new public records — and it might finally give me the perfect excuse to build a custom Steam Machine
Valve's Steam Controller appears to be nearing its release, with a public import record indicating a shipment of wireless PC controllers from China. This suggests the controller may launch before the Steam Machine, which is still slated for 2026. The early release of the controller could benefit PC users building custom Steam Machines.
If you want a 007 First Light controller palate cleanser, the limited edition Marathon DualSense just received a rare…
The limited edition Marathon DualSense controller for the PlayStation 5 is currently available at a discounted price of $74 on Amazon. This rare deal offers the special edition gamepad for the same price as a standard one, making it a notable opportunity for PS5 owners, especially fans of the Marathon game.
Best Controllers for Big Hands in 2026: 7 Comfortable Picks
This guide identifies seven comfortable controller options for gamers with large hands in 2026, addressing issues like handle length, button reach, and overall width. It highlights the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 as the best overall, with the Sony DualSense as a surprising pick, and the GameSir G7 SE as the best budget option. The article emphasizes the importance of controller ergonomics for long gaming sessions and discusses features like Hall Effect sticks and back paddles.
"One stick movement = 10 pushups" - GameSir teases a controller with four back buttons and up to 40kgs of adjustable stick tension for April Fools, but its commitment to the bit is puzzling me
GameSir has teased a hypothetical controller called the Cyclone 4, featuring four back buttons and adjustable stick tension ranging from 4-40kgs, presented as an April Fools' joke. Despite the exaggerated features, the company has shown a willingness to engage with fan requests for more back buttons and adjustable tension, with a cryptic response suggesting future development of such features.
