Leaked Valve VR Controllers Ignite Speculation for Next-Gen ‘Deckard’ Headset

Recently, Valve enthusiasts have something new to buzz about, as leaked 3D models from a SteamVR update suggest the company might be preparing to launch a new VR motion controller. This development has rekindled excitement around the much-anticipated ‘Deckard,’ a standalone VR headset that has been generating rumors in the gaming community.

Tech analyst and YouTube personality Brad ‘SadlyitsBradley’ Lynch reported finding these intriguing controllers in the latest SteamVR drivers. The leaks include a VR motion controller, cleverly code-named ‘Roy,’ and a gamepad referred to as ‘Ibex.’

What’s particularly fascinating about the Roy controller is its departure from typical VR controllers, which often include just two action buttons per device. Instead, Roy embraces a more classic gamepad layout. The left side features a directional pad, while the right sports four action buttons. In addition, there are start and select buttons and bumpers situated above each trigger—design choices that echo traditional game controllers.

An image shows how these models look when brought into Blender, a popular 3D graphics tool. Unfortunately, for those eager to delve into the files themselves, Valve has since removed them in a swift SteamVR software update.

Brad Lynch, known for tracking Valve leaks closely, points out that each button on Roy is equipped with capacitive touch, which likely aids in creating hand skeletons for digital interactions. He also speculates that Deckard might utilize eye-tracking for some user interface inputs, further enhancing its capabilities.

Unlike many VR headset makers who adopted Meta’s layout after the original Oculus Rift, Valve is known for its distinctive approach. The company’s Index controllers, also known as ‘Knuckles,’ include a unique wrist strap for hands-free operation and small touch pads for navigating user interfaces and emulating input from HTC Vive’s older wand controllers.

The idea of Valve entering the standalone VR headset market has circulated since 2021, when data miners uncovered hints in a Steam update. Rumors suggest that Deckard could offer features like PC VR wireless streaming, eye-tracking, and AR passthrough, potentially positioning it against Meta Quest and Apple’s Vision Pro.

The leak also unveiled another controller model showing similarities to Valve’s Steam Deck handheld, identified as Ibex. This model features dual touchpads reminiscent of the Deck, hinting at a consistent design language across Valve’s devices.

While these discoveries are tantalizing, the actual Deckard headset remains elusive, with Valve staying mum on its development. Given how swiftly the company erased evidence of the controller leaks, it’s likely they will approach future software leaks with caution.

Historical leaks, such as the one concerning the Valve Index before its official reveal in June 2019, are not uncommon in the tech world, as both software glitches and supply chain slip-ups can lead to accidental product disclosures.

As eager fans continue to speculate, we will keep a close eye on Valve’s next moves. The unexpected inclusion of these models in SteamVR might just be a sign that another classic Valve surprise could be on the horizon.