The countdown has officially begun for Valve’s long-awaited new hardware, Steam Controller. A review article accidentally published by Japanese broadcaster 4Gamer before the embargo period expired announced to the whole world that the device would be released on May 4.

This new information, which is in line with the leaks previously shared by YouTuber Techy Talk, confirms that Valve’s controller shipment is very short. The article, which was taken down immediately after the leak, did not go unnoticed by careful Reddit users, and images containing the box design and physical details of the device quickly spread on the internet. This indicates that the hardware has completed the mass production phase and is ready for sale.

Leaks Clarified the Release Date and Design of the Device

Although the 4Gamer site quickly deleted the content, the technology world got important clues about the final version of the Steam Controller thanks to the leaked images. The shared photos reveal both the box design of the device and its ergonomic structure from different angles.

Although it is not the most aesthetically stylish controller at first glance, it seems that Valve focused on functionality and technical performance rather than visuals during the design process.

In its new controller, Valve goes beyond traditional designs and prioritizes in-game performance and ease of use.

High Hardware Costs Slow Down Steam Machine Project

The Steam Controller was actually part of a broader hardware ecosystem that Valve announced alongside the Steam Machine and Steam Frame VR headset. Initial plans were for all three devices to be released simultaneously.

However, recent fluctuations in the hardware market and especially the exorbitant increases in RAM prices have caused Valve to revise its plans. The company has previously confirmed that memory costs directly affect the Steam Machine production schedule and final sales price.

It is thought that Steam Machine, which is expected to revolutionize the game console market, has been postponed to a later date due to high costs.

Valve Builds Its Strategy on Functionality and Performance

While there are so many concrete leaks about the controller, the silence about Steam Machine and VR hardware stands out as a striking detail. If the Steam Machine was in the review phase, various leaks would probably be on the technology agenda, as was the case with the controller. However, there is always room for surprises in the hardware world.

In light of the current data, it is predicted that May 4 will be a milestone only for the Steam Controller, while the wait will continue for a while for other hardware.

Do you think Valve’s new controller, Steam Controller, can replace traditional game controllers? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!