Valve’s VR Controller Leak Sparks Renewed Optimism for Next-Gen ‘Deckard’ Headset

A recent SteamVR update has unveiled some intriguing 3D models that could signal a new VR motion controller in the works. This development is rekindling excitement that Valve might finally roll out its much-anticipated standalone VR headset, dubbed ‘Deckard’.

Tech analyst and YouTuber Brad ‘SadlyitsBradley’ Lynch has reported the discovery of two new controllers in the latest SteamVR drivers, adding to the buzz. The controllers include a VR motion controller, nicknamed ‘Roy’, and a gamepad referred to as ‘Ibex’.

What’s especially notable about the Roy model is its design, which veers towards a more conventional gamepad layout, unlike typical VR motion controllers. It features a directional pad on the left, four action buttons on the right, and additional start, select, and bumper buttons. This setup could vastly improve compatibility with traditional gamepad-reliant games on Steam’s extensive library, not just VR-specific titles.

The picture above showcases these models rendered in Blender, the popular 3D graphics software. However, if you’re hoping to find these files directly, Valve has already removed them in a recent software update to SteamVR.

Lynch, who is well-known for investigating Valve’s leaks, notes that the files indicate Roy’s buttons are designed with capacitive touch in mind, likely to support hand skeleton creation. He further speculates that this could mean some user interface functions might leverage Deckard’s rumored eye-tracking technology.

Throughout the VR industry, several manufacturers have taken a cue from Meta’s Touch controllers, which have been around since the 2016 launch of the Oculus Rift. However, Valve has always been known for its distinctive approach. Their Index, also known as ‘Knuckles’, controllers allow for intuitive ‘hands-off’ interactions, thanks to a secure wrist strap and touchpads that also mimic older HTC Vive wand controllers’ inputs.

The Deckard headset has been the topic of much speculation since a 2021 Steam update hinted at a standalone VR device. It’s rumored to potentially feature capabilities like PC VR wireless streaming and eye-tracking, which could put it in contention with devices like the Meta Quest and Apple Vision Pro.

In addition to the Roy controller, another model emerged in the leak, mirroring Valve’s Steam Deck handheld’s control scheme and dubbed Ibex. The render from the SteamVR drivers reveals Ibex’s distinctive Deck-style dual touchpads, as shown below.

Data miners are eagerly waiting to uncover more detailed renders of Deckard itself, but for now, Valve remains tight-lipped. Given the speed with which they removed traces of the two controller models from the public eye, it’s likely they’re exercising caution regarding any further leaks.

While it’s unclear if the recent leaks were deliberate or accidental, Valve is no stranger to supply chain or software leaks. A memorable instance was the Valve Index leak, which occurred six months ahead of its official 2019 release.

As Valve often surprises with sudden product announcements, we’ll be watching closely for any developments in the coming months. Keep an eye out—another unexpected release could be on the horizon.