Use steam deck as a controller for PC

[Maple#1]

This is currently partially possible via game streaming, but I don't want to have video or sound through the deck. Just want to use it as a controller for my pc. I really like the customization and feel, but if I have access to my computer, I would rather use the computer and play on the computer, but with the steam deck as a controller.

[KniteDad]

So, Remote Play without the video? Does an X-Box or PS controller interest you? Because they both do that for the PC, just cheaper? Unless you mean using remote control software from the Steam Deck to control your PC?

[Maple#1]

I have an actual controller. And I wouldn't suggest someone buy the deck for just using it as a controller. But the way I see it, the steam deck offers control inputs other controllers don't. For example, customizing the touch pads. So I think it would be a nice bonus to be able to use it as a controller for my main PC.

[KniteDad]

Yeah, Thank you, that makes more sense, a lot of people agree with you and are asking Valve to release another Steam Controller because they love the touchpads on their controllers.

[deaddoof]

https://steamdeckhq.com/tips-and-guides/how-to-play-wii-u-games-dual-screen-using-cemu/

Steam deck as a WII U gamepad.

[Miguel]

I'm up for this, the steam deck controls are amazing. The other day I was playing switch multiplayer games and wished I could use the steam deck as a bluetooth controller with screen off

[Sinder]

Valve,

This seems like an obvious use case to highlight the functionality of Steam input.

User Story:

As a Steam Deck user, I want to use my Steam Deck as a Wired and Bluetooth PC Controller. So that I can use all inputs available on the Steam deck while playing games on my PC.

Suggested solution: Create a Controller mode application that can be downloaded through Steam. When activated, The user will be prompted to pair with a PC using either a Bluetooth or a USB connection. When not in steam, the controller should act as a normal Xbox Series controller, with added functionality available when steam is launched.

[deaddoof]

Originally posted by Sinder:

Suggested solution: Create a Controller mode application that can be downloaded through Steam. When activated, The user will be prompted to pair with a PC using either a Bluetooth or a USB connection. When not in steam, the controller should act as a normal Xbox Series controller, with added functionality available when steam is launched.

USB DRD is kinda broken right now. It would take awhile before they fix it.

[eyeonus]

Originally posted by Sinder:

Valve,
....
Create a Controller mode application that can be downloaded through Steam. When activated, The user will be prompted to pair with a PC using either a Bluetooth or a USB connection. When not in steam, the controller should act as a normal Xbox Series controller, with added functionality available when steam is launched.

+1

Alternatively, have 'Controller mode' be an option on a popup menu similar to the one mobile phones display when connected via USB, and have it activate automatically when pairing to a computer via BT.

[Enginerd]

Originally posted by KniteDad:

So, Remote Play without the video? Does an X-Box or PS controller interest you? Because they both do that for the PC, just cheaper? Unless you mean using remote control software from the Steam Deck to control your PC?

Yes, but steam deck (or old steam controllers) work WAY better for KB&M games because of the touchpads..

Will we see a resurgence of the steam controller but with all the new tech and touchpads?!?!!?!? (i doubt it but thatd be cool)

[X2Brute]

I WAS just using remote play to do this but it disables game recording and I like game recording too

[ThatUnusualGuy]

Originally posted by eyeonus:

Originally posted by Sinder:

Valve,
....
Create a Controller mode application that can be downloaded through Steam. When activated, The user will be prompted to pair with a PC using either a Bluetooth or a USB connection. When not in steam, the controller should act as a normal Xbox Series controller, with added functionality available when steam is launched.

+1

Alternatively, have 'Controller mode' be an option on a popup menu similar to the one mobile phones display when connected via USB, and have it activate automatically when pairing to a computer via BT.

+1 for the "Controller Mode" option. This is something I've been looking for as well, because I'd love to have the option to play games on the Deck while being away from home, for example, but when I have my main rig available, it'd be a great option to be able to use the deck as a simple controller. The alternative would be getting a XBox/PS controller and using it with remote play software as well, so I can skip the Deck altogether that way :/

[hectormanuel27]

tools for this are out there

[Nokel]

Originally posted by hectormanuel27:

tools for this are out there

link?

[MrH0twheels]

+1

Steam Deck is a lot more comfy than Xbox controller IMO