Key Takeaways
1. Valve is developing a new standalone VR headset called Deckard, priced around $1200, which is a significant upgrade from the Valve Index.
2. Deckard’s controllers, named “Roy,” will feature a compact design without motion-tracking rings, resembling a traditional gamepad layout with enhanced buttons and triggers.
3. The performance of Deckard is uncertain, with challenges expected in running games at 120Hz and 1440p on two screens, alongside concerns about battery life.
4. There is speculation that Deckard may launch with a new Half-Life game to drive sales, similar to the promotion of Half-Life: Alyx with the Index.
5. Ongoing leaks and code references suggest Valve is carefully preparing both hardware and software for Deckard’s launch, raising questions about its value compared to competitors.
Valve is working on a new standalone VR headset called Deckard, which appears to be a significant upgrade from the Valve Index. Recent leaks from @gabefollower on X/Twitter suggest a price of $1200, alongside fresh information about its controllers and tracking technology. Earlier data mining has revealed mentions of Deckard’s controllers, known as “Roy,” in the SteamVR code.
Changes in Controllers
These controllers are set to undergo significant redesigns, eliminating the motion-tracking rings in favor of a more user-friendly and compact style. This change reflects current industry practices, similar to Meta’s move to ringless tracking with the Quest 3S, which is currently priced at $299.99 on Amazon. Initial prototype images indicate that Deckard’s controllers will feature a large D-pad, ABXY buttons, bigger triggers, and side-mounted triggers. This design hints at a more conventional gamepad-like experience, which could open the door for Steam Controller 2 compatibility.
Performance and Features
One of the biggest uncertainties surrounding Deckard is its performance. Running games at 120Hz and 1440p on two screens could challenge the capabilities of a standalone headset. Battery life will also be crucial. The absence of finger tracking—available in the Valve Index—might be seen as a drawback by some, leading to debates about whether this is a step back.
Game Launch Speculations
Another pressing question is whether Deckard will debut with a new Half-Life game. Valve used Half-Life: Alyx to promote the Index, and it’s possible they are planning another major VR release to boost sales of the new headset. However, if Deckard is Valve’s main focus right now, it could delay the launch of HLX, which has been in secret development.
All these factors suggest that Valve is taking a careful approach to ensure both the hardware and the software are fully prepared for the launch. While the company has not revealed any official details, the growing number of leaks and code references is certainly encouraging. The real question lies in whether the hardware will be worth the price and stand up against other top competitors in the VR market.
Source:
Link
