Valve’s journey toward the final 2015 Steam Controller went through numerous design iterations, many of which never reached the public. This past weekend, a rare Steam Controller prototype—known internally as “Chell”—was discovered at a Goodwill store, giving enthusiasts another glimpse into the company’s experimental hardware phase.
Reddit user Waste-Set5032 shared their find online, noting that the device was picked up at the non-profit thrift store by their father. The prototype features a distinct layout compared to the retail version: two circular touchpads flank a central grid containing the Y, B, X, and A buttons. Unlike the finalized controller, which moved toward a more traditional Xbox or DualShock-style form factor, the Chell prototype prioritizes a dual-touchpad setup that lacks the ergonomic conventions of modern gaming hardware.
A Look Back at Valve's Experimental Hardware
The Chell design, named after the Portal protagonist, was manufactured in limited quantities before Valve ultimately pivoted to the retail design. While the retail version eventually integrated two trackpads under the joysticks, the Chell prototype represents a more radical attempt to bridge PC navigation with a controller form factor.
This isn't the first time one of these rare units has surfaced. Four years ago, Reddit user Creepy-Boss-705 acquired a Chell prototype via an eBay auction. Testing the device revealed that Steam still recognizes the hardware as a standard Steam Controller. According to Creepy-Boss-705, the four central buttons map to the joystick functionality, though they noted the experience remains “inferior to the final product” due to the awkward button placement and lack of familiarity.
Is the Prototype Usable?
While the Chell prototype remains a fascinating piece of gaming history, it is widely regarded as a novelty rather than a functional daily driver. The ridged circles and unmarked buttons present a significant learning curve compared to the 2015 retail model. Even those who have successfully tested the hardware admit that while it is fun to experiment with, it is far from an ideal controller for demanding titles like Dark Souls 2.
For newer fans of Valve hardware, these discoveries highlight the trial-and-error process behind the peripherals that eventually arrived on store shelves. With only a few units confirmed to be in the hands of collectors, the Chell prototype serves as a tangible reminder of the design hurdles Valve faced in its gaming hardware development.