In an intriguing twist, the recent SteamVR update has inadvertently unveiled 3D models of what appears to be a brand-new VR motion controller. This discovery has reignited hopes that Valve might be gearing up to introduce the anticipated standalone VR headset, known as ‘Deckard’.
Tech analyst and YouTuber Brad ‘SadlyitsBradley’ Lynch recently uncovered two new controllers hidden within the latest SteamVR drivers. These controllers go by the code names ‘Roy’ and ‘Ibex’. Unlike typical VR motion controllers that feature two action buttons per controller, Roy boasts a more conventional gamepad layout. Think directional pad on the left, action buttons on the right, along with the standard start and select buttons, not to mention bumper buttons positioned above each controller’s trigger.
There’s an image floating around showcasing these models when imported into Blender, the 3D graphics software. But if you’re trying to find the original files, you may be out of luck as Valve has swiftly removed them via a recent software hotfix.
Lynch, who has a track record for uncovering Valve’s secrets, suggests that every button on the Roy likely has capacitive touch, potentially aiding in creating a more dynamic hand interaction experience. He also hints that Deckard may employ eye-tracking capabilities for user interface navigation.
Historically, many VR headset creators have leaned towards designs similar to Meta’s Touch controllers since 2016’s Oculus Rift debut. However, Valve has often carved its own path. Their Index, or ‘Knuckles’, controllers, for example, offer ‘hands-off’ interactions with a snug wrist strap, and feature touch pads for UI navigation that also support HTC Vive wand-compatible games.
Speculations around Deckard first flared up back in January 2021 when data miners unearthed references in a Steam update. Rumors suggest the device could include wireless VR streaming, eye-tracking, and passthrough AR features – potential rivals for Meta Quest or Apple Vision Pro.
Another leaked model, Ibex, seems to emulate the Steam Deck handheld’s control scheme. Renders in SteamVR drivers reveal Ibex has the classic Deck-style dual touchpads.
Despite the excitement, details about Deckard remain elusive. Valve has kept its cards close to its chest, making no official comments. Given their rapid redaction of the leaked controllers, Valve may take extra caution against future leaks.
Whether these leaks were intentional or not, Valve has been through similar situations before, like when the Valve Index details emerged months before its official debut in June 2019.
As these developments unfold, we’ll continue to keep a close watch on Valve, a company known for its unexpected product launches.
