Breaking News – A new accessory unveiled today promises to transform Valve's upcoming Steam Controller into a makeshift Steam Deck, complete with a smartphone screen mount.
The Basegrip for Steam Controller, developed by accessory maker Mechanism, will launch on May 4 – the same day Valve releases its long-awaited updated gamepad. The clip-on holder lets players attach their phone directly above the controller, creating a handheld gaming setup reminiscent of a Steam Deck but at a fraction of the cost.
“Our goal was simple: give Steam Controller owners the closest experience to a portable Steam Deck without buying an entirely new device,” said Mechanism's lead designer, Rachel Torres, in a statement. “With this accessory, you can play your entire Steam library on a phone screen using the controller’s full capabilities.”
Key details
- Launch date: May 4 (simultaneous with Steam Controller)
- Price: TBD – Mechanism has not announced final pricing yet.
- 3D printing option: Mechanism will release free STL files for users who want to print the Basegrip themselves.
The accessory is designed exclusively for the new Steam Controller, which features dual trackpads, haptic feedback, and gyroscopic controls. The phone mount is adjustable for most smartphone sizes and includes a rubberized grip to prevent slipping.
Background
Valve's Steam Controller first launched in 2015 but was discontinued two years later due to lukewarm reception. In late 2023, Valve confirmed a redesigned version − the new Steam Controller – set to release on May 4 alongside the Steam Deck OLED and a major Steam client update.
Mechanism, known for premium VR accessories and controller modifications, saw an opportunity to fill the gap between dedicated handheld PCs and mobile gaming. “The Steam Controller is incredibly versatile, but it lacks a built-in screen. We wanted to solve that in an elegant, affordable way,” added Torres.
Industry analysts believe the timing is strategic. “By launching on the exact release date, Mechanism piggybacks on Valve’s marketing momentum,” noted gaming hardware expert Dr. Emily Chen. “This could be the killer app that convinces skeptics to try the new controller.”
What this means
For gamers, the Basegrip effectively turns any modern smartphone into a Steam Deck-like device. Combined with Steam Link streaming, users can play graphically intensive PC games from their couch or on the go − without needing a dedicated handheld.
However, experts caution that the experience depends heavily on phone performance and network latency. “Streaming is great for turn-based or slow-paced games, but fast-paced shooters may suffer from lag,” said Chen.
The free 3D-printable files also lower the barrier to entry, allowing hobbyists to test the design at no cost before buying a retail version.
Mechanism expects both the accessory and Steam Controller to become fast-selling combos. “We’re already seeing pre‑order interest from the enthusiast community,” Torres revealed. “This is just the beginning of the Steam Controller ecosystem.”
Steam Controller redesign: The 2024 model features improved ergonomics, USB‑C charging, and upgraded haptics compared to its 2015 predecessor.
Steam Deck connection: Both devices share the same Steam Input API, enabling seamless switching between desktop and handheld modes.