Category: Gaming

  • Get Anno 117: Pax Romana Free with MSI Motherboards and More

    Get Anno 117: Pax Romana Free with MSI Motherboards and More

    Key Takeaways

    1. MSI is giving away Football Manager 26 for free with select Z890 motherboards and gaming monitors.
    2. From November 13 to December 13, MSI is partnering with Ubisoft to offer a complimentary game key for Anno 117: Pax Romana with certain products.
    3. MSI’s product lines include the high-end MEG series, the mid-range MPG series, and the entry-level MAG series.
    4. Anno 117: Pax Romana allows players to manage provinces, build cities, create trade routes, and form alliances in ancient Rome.
    5. Customers can claim their game keys 14 days after purchase, valid until January 10 or while supplies last, and must activate the game by November 27, 2026.

    We shared that MSI is giving away Football Manager 26 for free with certain Z890 motherboards and gaming monitors. The company has also revealed another gaming partnership with Ubisoft to enhance the offer for buyers of selected items from November 13 to December 13. Customers will get a complimentary PC game key for Anno 117: Pax Romana along with motherboards, cases, liquid cooling systems, and power supplies.

    High-End Offerings

    The MSI MEG or MSI Enthusiast Gaming series is their top-tier line, aimed at elite gamers who want both the latest technology and premium packaging while they create their setup. On the other hand, the MPG or MSI Performance Gaming series is designed for the upper mid-range audience looking to find a good mix of performance and aesthetics. Lastly, the MAG or MSI Arsenal Gaming line serves as the entry-level choice for casual or novice gamers.

    About Anno 117: Pax Romana

    Anno 117: Pax Romana, a title from Ubisoft, is set in ancient Rome. Players can manage provinces within the empire, build cities, create trade routes, and form alliances, all while dealing with the outcomes of their decisions.

    Gamers can claim their keys 14 days after they buy their equipment, up until January 10, or as long as supplies last, and until November 27, 2026, to activate the game.

     

    Get Anno 117: Pax Romana Free with MSI Motherboards and More

     

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  • Asus Launches Unique Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with OLED Display

    Asus Launches Unique Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with OLED Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. Unique Design: The Asus ROG Night Demon Extreme SE features a fully transparent design with a bright space silver metal body and RGB lighting-enhancing keycaps.

    2. Switch Options: Users can choose between ROG NX Snow linear switches or ROG NX Storm clicky switches, both with custom clear shells.

    3. High Performance: The keyboard offers an 8,000 Hz polling rate, making it suitable for gamers who require quick response times, along with features like Speed Tap for improved gaming performance.

    4. Integrated OLED Touchscreen: It includes an OLED touchscreen for displaying keyboard status and system information, along with a multifunctional knob for easy settings navigation.

    5. Availability and Pricing: Currently, it is available exclusively in China for CNY 3,599 (approximately $505), with no global release announced yet.

    The Asus ROG Night Demon Extreme SE has been introduced as a special edition mechanical keyboard in China. This model aligns with the ROG Azoth Extreme, which is available in other markets and priced at $399.99 on Amazon. The local name for the keyboard in China is “Night Demon,” and it features a completely transparent design that distinguishes it from the regular version.

    Design and Features

    Most of the Asus ROG Night Demon Extreme SE’s features are similar to those of the ROG Azoth Extreme, with the key difference being its unique new look. It still retains an all-metal body, now shimmering in a bright space silver. The keyboard is equipped with transparent PC keycaps, where the primary keys have PBT pudding keycaps, while the remaining ones are entirely see-through. This design accentuates the RGB lighting, making the ROG Night Demon Extreme SE an eye-catching and distinct keyboard.

    Switches and Layout

    The keyboard offers a choice between ROG NX Snow linear switches or ROG NX Storm clicky switches, both featuring custom clear shells. However, although it looks impressive, the transparent keycaps can be a bit slippery and might show fingerprints more easily compared to standard keycaps. Like the ROG Azoth Extreme, this special edition has a compact 75% layout and includes a palm rest. The chassis is crafted from CNC-machined aluminum, showcasing a gasket mount, an FR4 positioning plate, and three layers of dampening for a soft feel and improved acoustics. Users can also customize the tactile feedback to suit their typing or gaming preferences.

    Performance and Features

    In terms of performance, the keyboard boasts a genuine 8,000 Hz polling rate in both wired and wireless modes, thanks to the ROG Polling Rate Booster, making it perfect for gamers who need instant response times. Additionally, it supports Speed Tap for quicker counter-strafing in shooting games. However, as it is a typical mechanical keyboard, it does not have features like rapid trigger or adjustable actuation. Recently, Asus introduced an Azoth variant with Hall effect switches, which seems to be named the ROG Night Demon 98 HE in China.

    Another notable feature is the integrated OLED touchscreen, which can display various information, from keyboard status to system details like CPU temperatures. Moreover, a multifunctional knob allows for easy navigation through settings or media control. Other elements include a laser-engraved nameplate, magnetic feet for height adjustments, and a wrist rest with a transparent PC base.

    Currently, the Asus ROG Night Demon Extreme SE is exclusively available in China, retailing for CNY 3,599 (approximately $505). This price aligns with that of the ROG Azoth Extreme in the US. There have been no announcements regarding a global release yet, but it might be forthcoming, especially since Asus has recently updated the Azoth keyboard series in the United States.

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    Asus Launches Unique Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with OLED DisplayAsus Launches Unique Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with OLED Display

     

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  • AMD Ryzen 5 7500X3D: Affordable X3D CPU Beats Core Ultra 245KF

    AMD Ryzen 5 7500X3D: Affordable X3D CPU Beats Core Ultra 245KF

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD launched the budget-friendly Ryzen 5 7500X3D, a simplified version of the Ryzen 5 7600X3D, targeting gamers seeking economical performance.
    2. The Ryzen 5 7500X3D features six cores, 12 threads, a boost clock of 4.5 GHz, a 96 MB L3 cache, and supports up to 128 GB of memory with PCIe 5.0 compatibility.
    3. In performance comparisons, the Ryzen 5 7500X3D is 13% faster than the Core Ultra 245KF in AAA games and 22% faster in competitive gaming scenarios.
    4. The pricing for the Ryzen 5 7500X3D is set at $269, making it the most affordable X3D processor, while the Ryzen 5 7600X3D is priced at $310.
    5. Currently, the Ryzen 5 7500X3D is only available in prebuilt gaming PCs from PowerSpec at Micro Center.

    AMD has finally unveiled its newest budget-friendly addition to the Ryzen 7000X3D line of desktop CPUs, known as the Ryzen 5 7500X3D. This model is a simplified version of the Ryzen 5 7600X3D that was released last year, providing gamers with another economical choice that can stand up against the Core Ultra 245KF and the Core i5 14600K. Although it costs a little more than its Intel rivals, AMD asserts that it offers better performance at 1080p.

    Technical Specifications

    The Ryzen 5 7500X3D is built on the previous generation Zen 4 architecture and comes with six cores and 12 threads, reaching a maximum boost clock speed of 4.5 GHz. While it shares the same core count as the Ryzen 5 7600X3D, the clock speeds are marginally lower. The L3 cache remains consistent at 96 MB, which is beneficial for gaming performance. It has a default thermal design power (TDP) of 65W and supports memory of up to 128 GB, along with PCIe 5.0 compatibility.

    Performance Insights

    In terms of performance, AMD’s new offering is about 13% quicker in AAA games such as Black Myth Wukong, Red Dead Redemption 2, Forza Horizon 5, and Baldur’s Gate 3 when compared to the Core Ultra 245K. In competitive gaming scenarios, it outperforms by 22%, excelling in titles like VALORANT, League of Legends, Rainbow Six: Siege, Counter Strike 2, and DOTA 2.

    When stacked against the Core i5 14600K, AMD claims that the Ryzen 5 7500X3D is 8% faster in AAA titles and 12% faster in competitive gaming.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Ryzen 5 7500X3D is priced at $269, making it the most affordable X3D processor currently available. As of now, it can only be found within a prebuilt gaming PC from PowerSpec at Micro Center. For comparison, the Ryzen 5 7600X3D retails at $310. Meanwhile, the Intel options are slightly less expensive, with the Core Ultra 245KF listed at $219 (although it usually sells between $290 and $305) and the Core i5 14600K available for $210.

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  • Backbone Pro Mobile Controller Launches Xbox Edition

    Backbone Pro Mobile Controller Launches Xbox Edition

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Backbone Pro Xbox Edition features a translucent green design that pays homage to the classic Xbox console and includes Xbox-specific buttons.
    2. It offers multiple connectivity options, allowing use as a handheld controller, wireless controller for various devices, or wired controller via USB-C.
    3. The controller comes with a free one-month subscription to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, enhancing access to Xbox’s cloud gaming service.
    4. Priced at $179.99, the Backbone Pro Xbox Edition is $10 more than the standard version and is available for purchase through Backbone, Amazon, and Best Buy.
    5. This limited edition controller was launched following the Backbone One Death Stranding 2 Limited Edition announcement.

    Earlier this year, Backbone revealed an Xbox version of the Backbone One. Now, it’s the premium Backbone Pro controller’s turn to shine, which was launched in May. This limited edition controller comes shortly after the announcement of the Backbone One Death Stranding 2 Limited Edition.

    Design and Features

    The Backbone Pro Xbox Edition boasts a translucent green finish, honoring the classic Xbox console. This design mirrors that of the Backbone One Xbox Edition. Since it is an Xbox controller, Backbone has integrated some buttons typically found on the Xbox Wireless Controller.

    In contrast to the regular version, which has a capture button and an ellipsis button on the left side, the Backbone Pro Xbox Edition swaps these out for an Xbox button and a View button. The other specifications and features, however, remain unchanged from the standard edition.

    Connectivity Options

    Users can operate the controller in handheld mode with their smartphones or utilize the Backbone Pro as a wireless controller by linking it to a phone, tablet, TV, or a VR headset like the Meta Quest 3s. It is also possible to use it as a wired controller by plugging a USB-C cable into the Type-C port located at the bottom and connecting the other end to your device.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Backbone Pro Xbox Edition includes a free one-month subscription to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate (valued at $30), enabling users to access Xbox’s cloud gaming service. Additionally, there is the possibility to stream games directly from your own console using Xbox Remote Play.

    This controller is priced at $179.99, which is $10 more than the standard version. It is available for purchase now directly from Backbone or through Amazon and Best Buy. This offers an upgrade over the Backbone Pro Cozy Gaming Edition, which is exclusive to Target.

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  • Citron Nintendo Switch Emulator for Android Updates for Better Performance

    Citron Nintendo Switch Emulator for Android Updates for Better Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. Citron emulator received a major update (v0.11.0) with a complete software rewrite for improved Switch emulation.
    2. The update enhances support for Snapdragon 8 Elite GPU, benefiting new Android gaming handhelds like Konkr Pocket Fit Elite and AYN Odin 3.
    3. Advanced shader capabilities and a refined rendering pipeline have been introduced for better performance on compatible devices.
    4. The emulator now supports ARM64 devices and runs natively on Windows on ARM (WoA) with optimizations for improved performance.
    5. Additional features include per-game cheat settings, game library improvements, and upgrades to update management and notifications.

    Last month, the team behind Citron, a well-known Nintendo Switch emulator for Android and PC, released a significant update that involved a complete rewrite of the software. This update aimed to improve Switch emulation and introduced an early version of AMD FSR 2 within the emulator.

    Exciting New Features

    Now, the developers have rolled out another important update that is particularly beneficial for the new Android gaming handhelds like the Konkr Pocket Fit Elite and AYN Odin 3. The latest version, v0.11.0, enhances support for the Snapdragon 8 Elite GPU.

    The update highlights advanced shader capabilities and a refined rendering pipeline tailored for devices using the Snapdragon 8 Elite (for example, the 266 GB OnePlus Pad 3, currently priced at $599.99 on Amazon). These enhancements will provide improved performance for older flagship phones and the handhelds that utilize this previous-generation system on a chip (SoC).

    Addressing Performance Issues

    It’s important to mention that the Snapdragon 8 Elite has struggled with smoothly running emulators like Citron. A significant factor contributing to this challenge is the new GPU architecture, which creates additional issues, especially given the absence of open-source Turnip drivers.

    However, support for the Snapdragon 8 Elite GPU is just one aspect of the latest update. The new version of Citron also includes support for ARM64 devices. The developers have indicated that the emulator now runs natively on Windows on ARM (WoA), along with optimizations designed to enhance emulation performance on WoA systems.

    Additional Improvements

    Other changes included in this update feature per-game cheat settings, improvements to the game library, and upgrades to update management and notifications. For more detailed information, you can check out the complete changelog available on the official Citron website.

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  • Valve’s Steam Machine: Compact Gaming PC with Custom AMD Chip

    Valve’s Steam Machine: Compact Gaming PC with Custom AMD Chip

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new Steam Machine features custom AMD hardware with six Zen 4 cores and a scaled-down Radeon RX 7600 GPU.
    2. It comes with 16 GB of DDR5 RAM and storage options of 512 GB and 2 TB, expandable via microSD.
    3. Connectivity includes multiple USB ports, HDMI 2.0, DP 1.4, Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3.
    4. The console can run games at 4K resolution, likely requiring FSR support, and runs on SteamOS 3.
    5. Valve has not yet announced a price or release date, making a launch before 2026 unlikely.

    Valve’s previously abandoned Steam tabletop console has been revived as a new Steam Machine. Similar to the Steam Deck, it features custom AMD hardware with six Zen 4 cores and a 28 CU GPU (110 W TDP), which is a scaled-down variant of the Radeon RX 7600. Though not explicitly mentioned, this was verified by a Geekbench listing.

    Specifications and Features

    The new Steam Machine is equipped with 16 GB of DDR5 RAM and 8 GB of GDDR6 VRAM. For storage options, Valve offers models with 512 GB and 2 TB, with the potential for further expansion through a microSD card. It’s still unclear if users can upgrade the internal storage manually, but based on the Steam Deck, it seems likely.

    Connectivity Options

    In terms of connectivity, the Steam Machine includes a DP 1.4 port, an HDMI 2.0 port, two USB 3.2 Type-A ports, two USB 2.0 Type-A ports, one USB 3.2 Gen2 port, a 1 Gb/s Ethernet port, along with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.

    Valve asserts that the Steam Machine is capable of running games at 4K resolution, but this may require significant support from FSR due to the hardware’s limitations. It runs on SteamOS 3 right out of the box and features 17 addressable LEDs for extra personalization. The console’s dimensions are 152 mm x 162.4 mm x 156 mm, and it weighs 2.6 kilograms.

    Price and Release Date Uncertain

    Sadly, Valve hasn’t announced a price or release date yet. With the holiday season getting closer, it’s improbable that it will launch before 2026.

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    Valve's Steam Machine: Compact Gaming PC with Custom AMD Chip

     

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  • New 8BitDo Bluetooth Wireless Controller Launches Before December

    New 8BitDo Bluetooth Wireless Controller Launches Before December

    Key Takeaways

    1. 8BitDo is set to launch a new wireless controller named the ‘8BitDo Controller’ in time for Christmas.
    2. The controller will be wireless and compatible with both Android and PC, likely using 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth connectivity.
    3. It features a sleek black design, differentiating it from previous 8BitDo controllers like the Ultimate 2C Wireless.
    4. The expected price for the controller is $29.99, similar to the Ultimate 2C lineup, though it may not be a refreshed version.
    5. The release date for the controller is December 8, 2025, with possible teasers beginning in late November or early December.

    It seems that 8BitDo is gearing up to launch a new wireless controller just in time for Christmas. Last month, the brand celebrated the 40th anniversary of the NES by unveiling several limited edition products, one of which was a themed Ultimate 2 Bluetooth controller. Recently, the X account Wario64 shared a sneak peek of the controller, simply named the ‘8BitDo Controller’, which can be found on Amazon.

    Key Features

    Even though details are still limited, some important information can be gathered. For example, Amazon states that this new controller is wireless and is compatible with both Android and PC. Generally, when 8BitDo mentions such compatibility, it implies that the controller will support 2.4 GHz connectivity for PCs and Bluetooth for Android devices. Additionally, this controller will feature a sleek black design, a color that has not yet been seen in other 8BitDo controllers like the Ultimate 2C Wireless.

    Pricing and Release Date

    Interestingly, the upcoming controller is expected to align with the price of the company’s Ultimate 2C lineup, starting at $29.99. However, there’s no certainty that this new device is a refreshed version of the Ultimate 2C at this moment. The release date for this unnamed controller is set for December 8, 2025. Therefore, it is likely that 8BitDo will begin to tease the launch of this controller in late November or by early December at the latest.

     

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    New 8BitDo Bluetooth Wireless Controller Launches Before DecemberNew 8BitDo Bluetooth Wireless Controller Launches Before December

     

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  • Cult PS2 Horror Game Remake Release Date Announced

    Cult PS2 Horror Game Remake Release Date Announced

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date: Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake will launch on March 12, 2026, for PC, PS5, Xbox Series X and S, and Nintendo Switch 2.

    2. Game Overview: The game is a survival horror title where players control Mio Amakura in the haunted village of Minakami.

    3. Gameplay Mechanics: Players use a third-person camera view and the Camera Obscura to confront ghosts and solve puzzles.

    4. Graphics and Audio Enhancements: The remake will feature improved graphics with better light and shadow effects, as well as more immersive audio.

    5. New Features: The remake is expected to include new features that may surprise players at launch.

    Today, there are many remakes out there, letting countless gamers enjoy beloved games from years past. During the recent State of Play Japan event, the release date for Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake was revealed for PC, PS5, Xbox Series X and S, and Nintendo Switch 2.

    About the Game

    If you haven’t heard of this game, it’s a survival horror title that gained popularity when it launched on PS2 in 2003. In the gameplay, players take on the role of Mio Amakura, who finds herself in the haunted village of Minakami, where she must find a way to escape.

    Gameplay Mechanics

    Typically, players use a third-person camera view, but this shifts when they utilize the Camera Obscura. Naturally, there are puzzles to solve and terrifying ghosts to confront.

    The news of a remake, set to launch on March 12, 2026, is thrilling for horror game enthusiasts. Many fans regard it as a cult classic due to its chilling atmosphere.

    New Features and Improvements

    Moreover, a new trailer has been released, showcasing a lot of information. The graphics and textures will be more intricate, with a notable contrast between light and shadow, enhancing the fear factor.

    Another enhancement involves the game’s audio. The sound will be considerably more immersive, drawing players deeper into the experience. Lastly, new features are expected in this remake, potentially adding surprises for its launch.

     

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  • Valve Unveils Steam Frame: First Standalone VR Headset

    Valve Unveils Steam Frame: First Standalone VR Headset

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Steam Frame is an independent VR headset that can run games on its own and supports wireless streaming from other devices using a 6 GHz dongle.
    2. It features LCD technology with pancake lenses, offering a resolution of 2160 x 2160 pixels, a refresh rate of up to 144 Hz, and a 110-degree field of view.
    3. The headset is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, has 16 GB of RAM, and comes with storage options of 256 GB or 1 TB, running on SteamOS.
    4. The Steam Frame incorporates foveated streaming technology for efficient GPU usage by rendering only the areas users are looking at.
    5. The controllers include 6 degrees of freedom tracking, capacitive finger tracking, and weigh 130 grams, while the headset weighs 440 grams (185 grams without the battery pack).

    Valve has just released its latest VR headset, previously referred to as Deckard. Although it serves as a successor to the Valve Index, the Steam Frame stands out as an independent device capable of running games on its own. Users also have the option to play games from another device, streaming them wirelessly to the headset using a 6 GHz dongle. Additionally, it features a battery pack that is cleverly mounted on the back of the headset.

    Display and Specifications

    In contrast to various VR headsets (such as the Apple Vision Pro) that utilize OLED screens, Valve has opted for LCD technology paired with pancake lenses. The lenses each boast a resolution of 2160 x 2160 pixels and support a refresh rate of up to 144 Hz. With a field of view of 110 degrees, these lenses can accommodate eyeglasses up to 140 mm in width.

    One standout element of the Steam Frame is its foveated streaming capability. This technology tracks your eye movements and only renders the areas you are currently looking at. This feature helps to save GPU power while providing enhanced visual fidelity in the areas that are being rendered.

    Performance and Features

    Beneath its sleek exterior, the Steam Frame is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, complemented by 16 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and storage options of either 256 GB or 1 TB. It runs on SteamOS right out of the box and employs a translation layer to allow for the running of mainly x86 Steam games on an Arm-based system-on-chip (SoC). The Snapdragon SoC theoretically enables users to access Arm-based VR titles as well.

    The included battery has a capacity of 21.6 Wh and can charge at a rate of up to 45 Watts via USB-C. For tracking, Valve has equipped the headset with four outward-facing monochrome cameras for both the headset and controller, two internal cameras for eye tracking and foveated streaming, along with infrared illuminators for use in dimly lit spaces. A Wi-Fi 7 antenna allows the Steam Frame to connect directly to the internet.

    Controller Design and Weight

    When it comes to the controllers, the Steam Frame features a mostly conventional design that includes 6 degrees of freedom (DOF) tracking, capacitive finger tracking, and a standard layout of A B X Y/D-Pad on each controller. The thumbsticks are equipped with TMR modules, effectively removing the chance of stick drift. Weighing in at just 130 grams with a single AA battery, they are quite lightweight.

    The headset itself, however, is a bit heavier at 440 grams, although this drops to 185 grams when the battery pack is detached. The Steam Frame also includes an additional vertical head strap for extra support. Unfortunately, as it was with the Steam Machine, there is still no information on pricing or a release date.

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    Valve Unveils Steam Frame: First Standalone VR HeadsetValve Unveils Steam Frame: First Standalone VR Headset

     

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  • Official New Steam Controller Features TMR Thumbsticks and Unique Look

    Official New Steam Controller Features TMR Thumbsticks and Unique Look

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new Steam Controller features a traditional layout similar to PlayStation controllers, moving away from the old design.
    2. It includes two capacitive touch zones below the thumbsticks for navigation, though they may cause unintentional inputs.
    3. The controller is equipped with innovative haptic gyro technology for enhanced control and four extra mappable buttons on the back.
    4. It charges via USB-C or a magnetic puck and is compatible with Steam Deck, Steam Machine, and any PC with Steam.
    5. Details about pricing and release date are currently unavailable.

    Valve has finally revealed its anticipated Steam Controller successor. This new version abandons the design of the old model in favor of a more traditional layout similar to that of the PlayStation. It includes two capacitive touch zones located just below the thumbsticks, which could lead to a lot of unintentional inputs. These touch zones are likely intended to facilitate navigation through menus, similar to their function on the Steam Deck.

    Exciting New Features

    In addition to the new layout, the updated Steam Controller boasts Valve’s innovative haptic gyro technology, which allows for gyro controls when the controller is held at specific positions. Users can also assign additional functions to these touch zones. As a bonus, the controller features four extra mappable buttons located on the back. There’s a Steam button for quick access, along with another button specifically designed for fast access to Steam chat and other functionalities.

    Compatibility and Charging

    In contrast to the first-party controllers from Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo, the Steam Controller is equipped with TMR sticks. It can be charged using a USB-C cable or a magnetic puck that connects to its pogo pins. This controller is compatible with the Steam Deck, Steam Machine, or any PC that has Steam. Other specifications include four haptic motors and support for both 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth connectivity.

    At the moment, similar to the Steam Frame and Steam Machine that were announced previously, there are no details regarding the price or release date for the Steam Controller.

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    Official New Steam Controller Features TMR Thumbsticks and Unique Look

     

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