Mechanism, the creators of a “gaming pillow” for the Steam Deck and a growing list of grips for handheld consoles and PCs, has already launched its inaugural Steam Controller accessory. Valve’s latest controller hits shelves on May 4, and on that exact day Mechanism will release the Basegrip for Steam Controller. This accessory allows you to attach the controller to a smartphone and numerous other mounts the company already offers.
The Basegrip for Steam Controller is sculpted to fit snugly over the controller’s back while still leaving space for its magnetic charging puck to attach. Since most of Mechanism’s accessories are designed to work in tandem, attaching the Basegrip enables you to connect the Steam Controller to a wide array of the company’s existing mounts. This includes a phone mount that allows you to magnetically secure a smartphone to the top of the controller. With a phone and controller combined, you essentially have a portable handheld console for gaming.
However, this might only be possible in the future. Valve has been clear that the Steam Controller is intended to work exclusively with Steam and the Steam Link app, which is why Mechanism notes that “the controller doesn’t work across all of iOS or Android yet.” While you can use your smartphone, Steam Controller, and the Steam Link app to stream PC games, playing other titles may prove difficult. Future software updates might enhance compatibility, but this currently limits the usefulness of using the Steam Controller with a smartphone. This shouldn’t diminish the appeal of other Mechanism accessories, particularly the upcoming Steam Controller Dock, which elegantly displays the controller when not in use and incorporates its charging puck to keep it powered.
Mechanism states that the Basegrip for Steam Controller will be available on May 4 for $9, or at a reduced price when bundled with other accessories. The Steam Controller Dock does not have a final price yet, but Mechanism says it will ship in June and you can join a waitlist to buy it now.