In a shocking turn of events, Valve struggles to keep to a schedule.
PolygonValve's take on the gamepad, the Steam Controller, won't make its previously planned 2014 release date. In an update to the Steam Universe group, Valve's Eric Hope said the controller is now "realistically" looking at a release window in 2015.
"We're now using wireless prototype controllers to conduct live playtests, with everyone from industry professionals to die-hard gamers to casual gamers," Hope said in a new update on Valve's Steam Machine hardware. "It's generating a ton of useful feedback, and it means we'll be able to make the controller a lot better. Of course, it's also keeping us pretty busy making all those improvements. Realistically, we're now looking at a release window of 2015, not 2014."
Hope said Valve is eager to get Steam Machines into the hands on players, but that "our number one priority is making sure that when you do, you'll be getting the best gaming experience possible."
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And this is what happens when you try to reinvent the wheel. I'm glad they tried, and I've been interested in Valve's attempts, but it seems that they don't quite have a grip on this whole controller business. I've become less and less optimistic about the project, and honestly, I have to wonder if this will ever see the light of day at all.
I appreciate Valve's dedication to making quality products, but I'm afraid they've forgotten all about that "product" bit.
But maybe I'm just being a Downhearted Diedrich. Who knows, maybe Valve will get these out sometime between now and the inevitable heat death of the universe. Just... don't hold your breath.