This DIY ‘OpenPuck’ project allows the Steam Controller to emulate Xbox, Switch, and PlayStation controllers, but no wireless charging for you
The OpenPuck is a DIY project that extends Valve’s Steam Controller by allowing it to emulate controllers from rival platforms. Created by GitHub user safijari, the project uses a Pro Micro NRF52840 microcontroller board (priced at approximately $8) that can be flashed to replace the Steam Controller’s standard wireless puck. Once installed, the modified puck translates Steam Controller inputs to seamlessly emulate Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation controllers.
This enhancement builds on the Steam Controller’s already versatile design, which has maintained a dedicated following despite the commercial failure of Valve’s broader Steam Machine initiative. The OpenPuck project offers enthusiasts and hardware modders a practical solution for maximizing controller compatibility across different gaming ecosystems without purchasing multiple input devices.
The modification comes with a notable tradeoff: users must sacrifice the Steam Controller’s wireless charging capability. Despite this limitation, the project remains compelling for those seeking universal cross-platform controller compatibility and willing to engage in hardware tinkering. The open-source nature of OpenPuck reflects the gaming community’s continued interest in hardware modification and creative solutions for extending the lifespan of established peripherals.