GameSir “Steam Deck Controller” is Just a Prototype, CEO States that Valve is Not Officially Involved

A mysterious GameSir wireless gaming controller appeared online late last year, courtesy of video footage uploaded by an unidentified tester. The presence of a Steam logo on the leaked device’s central “home/guide” button sent speculation activities into overdrive. The so-called GameSir “Steam Deck Controller” was linked back to a teased Xbox-licensed G7 Pro wireless controller—both designs seem to share a white/gray aesthetic and control layout. At CES 2025, TechPowerUp staffers were fortunate enough to experience hands-on time with GameSir’s upcoming Xbox-branded flagship model. Curious visitors did not spot any sign of Steam/Valve-related products at the company’s Las Vegas booth. Game Tech Talk—a YouTube channel that covers the latest in handheld gadgets—managed to conduct an interview with Betta; GameSir’s CEO. Their virtual discussion was uploaded two (or so) days ago; the 28-minute video explores current and forthcoming products.

When asked about the unannounced “G7 Pro Valve Edition” (aka unofficial Steam Deck Controller), Betta admitted that he was behind last year’s leak. This guerilla marketing tactic produced a lot of reactions and feedback from the hardcore gaming controller community; all taken onboard by the young entrepreneur. Betta said that his personal prototype was “hacked together” in order to provide proof of concept to Valve, although he states that GameSir only has a loose relationship with the House of Half-Life. The G7 Pro controller served as a basic foundation for the Steam-oriented variant—with added motion controller capabilities, capacitive stick technology, independently addressable back buttons, and integration into Valve’s operating “ecosystem.” The fledgling project awaits an official signing-off—with agreements over licensing, branding, software support, etc.—but a firm connection between the two parties is not yet established. Apparently, there were brief interactions during January’s CES event. Betta believes that: “people at Valve are pretty hard to reach.” GameSir leadership is “figuring out” a plan; they hope to form a direct connection to Valve HQ in the near future.

Game Tech Talk: “meet Betta, the 21-year-old CEO behind GameSir, the innovative brand revolutionizing gaming controllers. Discover his journey from passionate gamer to hardware designer.”

TechPowerUp editor’s note: “prototype Steam Deck controller” discussion starts at the 15-minute 35-second mark.