Newly Unveiled Valve VR Controllers Spark Renewed Optimism for Next-Gen ‘Deckard’ Headset

In recent developments within the virtual reality world, whispers of new VR motion controllers surfaced after leaked 3D models were discovered hidden within a SteamVR update. This finding has stirred excitement among enthusiasts, hinting that Valve may finally be preparing to launch its much-anticipated standalone VR headset, allegedly named ‘Deckard’.

Tech analyst and YouTuber Brad ‘SadlyitsBradley’ Lynch broke the news about these leaked controllers found in SteamVR drivers. The leak revealed two types of controllers: one motion controller, intriguingly code-named ‘Roy’, and another which seems to be a gamepad, branded as ‘Ibex’.

Unlike conventional VR motion controllers that typically have two action buttons on each, the Roy model opts for a more conventional gamepad design. It includes a directional pad on the left controller and four action buttons on the right, along with start, select, and bumper buttons located above each trigger, providing a familiar yet expanded functionality.

The leaked models, once imported into Blender, a well-known 3D graphics tool, are displayed in the image above. However, it seems Valve has quickly moved to patch these models out in a subsequent SteamVR software update, closing the door on further curiosities — for now.

Lynch, who has previously unraveled many Valve-related leaks, suggests the Roy controller could be designed to support a broader range of games, capitalizing on Steam’s extensive library of traditional games in addition to the usual VR experiences. This multifunctional approach, paired with hints of capacitive touch features on each button to potentially capture hand skeletons, fuels speculation about the Deckard’s capabilities, possibly leveraging eye-tracking for user interface interaction.

Since meta’s Touch controllers reshaped VR experiences when Unity and Oculus Rift launched in 2016, Valve has developed its unique path. The Valve Index controllers famously introduced ‘hands-off’ interactions with adjustable wrist straps and small touchpads for navigation, which are also compatible with HTC Vive wand controllers.

The fabled Deckard has enticed speculation since 2021, when a Steam update hinted at the standalone VR headset. Rumors suggest Deckard might offer features like wireless PC VR streaming, eye-tracking, and even AR passthrough, potentially putting it in competition with the likes of Meta Quest and Apple’s Vision Pro.

Further intrigue surrounds the leaked model of the Ibex controller, which mirrors the control design of the Steam Deck, featuring distinct dual touchpads. This inclusion hints at Valve’s vision to merge traditional gameplay and mobile gaming mechanisms.

Interestingly, data miners have yet to uncover visual representations of the Deckard itself, keeping the headset shrouded in mystery. Valve’s swift move to remove the leaked controller models suggests they are becoming increasingly cautious about future software leaks.

Whether Valve orchestrated these leaks is unknown, but it’s worth noting that unexpected leaks are not uncommon in the gaming world. A notable incident involved the Valve Index, whose details emerged six months prior to its official unveiling in June 2019, showcasing its design fully to the public.

As we continue down this road with Valve, we’ll be watching for any more surprise announcements. The sudden unveiling of these controller models within the SteamVR software might be a sign that Valve has yet more unrevealed surprises lurking — which wouldn’t be out of character for the enigmatic company.