In a recent twist in the virtual reality world, eagle-eyed tech enthusiasts have unearthed some intriguing clues in the latest SteamVR update, getting everyone buzzing about a potential new VR headset from Valve. This news has rekindled excitement around the long-speculated ‘Deckard’ standalone VR headset.
Tech analyst and YouTuber Brad ‘SadlyitsBradley’ Lynch uncovered these interesting finds: two new controllers hidden within the SteamVR drivers. One is a fresh VR motion controller, intriguingly code-named ‘Roy,’ and the other a gamepad named ‘Ibex.’
Differing from the usual VR controllers with just a couple of action buttons each, the Roy model has a layout reminiscent of a classic gamepad. It features a directional pad on the left and four action buttons on the right, along with start, select, and bumper buttons above each trigger. This design tweak could make the headset compatible with a broader range of games, including those that typically rely on standard controllers, thus expanding Deckard’s appeal by tapping into Steam’s extensive library of flat-screen games as well.
The image shared above unveils these 3D models after they were brought to life using Blender, a popular graphic modeling tool. However, it seems Valve has since removed these files with a recent software fix.
Lynch, who’s no stranger to reporting on Valve’s leaks, shared that the files indicated every button on the Roy controller is touch-sensitive, potentially aiding in hand tracking. He speculates this might align with Deckard’s rumored eye-tracking feature, providing more nuanced UI interactions.
Many VR manufacturers have leaned towards the hardware design popularized by Meta’s Touch controllers since their debut back in 2016. Yet, Valve seems to be marching to its own beat. Known for the ‘Knuckles’ controllers paired with its Index headset, Valve offers a unique hands-free interaction experience thanks to the inclusion of a snug wrist strap. Additionally, these controllers incorporate small touchpads to navigate UI, which can also mimic input for games originally designed for the older HTC Vive controllers.
The anticipation around Valve Deckard dates back to early 2021 when data miners stumbled upon hints of such a device in a Steam update. Rumors swirl that Deckard might include wireless PC VR capabilities, eye-tracking, and AR functionalities—potential rivals to Meta Quest or Apple Vision Pro, perhaps?
Coinciding with the reveal, a separate controller design surfaced resembling the style of the Steam Deck’s controls, called Ibex. An image of this controller reveals its dual touchpads, resembling its Deck counterpart.
Despite these leaks, fans are still eagerly awaiting a glimpse of Deckard itself, with Valve staying tight-lipped on its reality. The company’s quick response to erase the leaked controllers suggests they’re cautious about further accidental reveals.
Whether these leaks were intentional or not remains a mystery. But such leaks are quite common in the industry, as evidenced by the Valve Index leak six months before it officially launched in June 2019, which showed off the design of the VR headset extensively.
As we keep a keen watch on Valve’s next move, these leaked controller models could hint at another of Valve’s famous surprise releases. Stay tuned, because knowing Valve, anything could happen next!
