Valve's $99 Steam Controller Emits Random Wilhelm Scream When Dropped
Updated
Updated · CNET · May 13
Valve's $99 Steam Controller Emits Random Wilhelm Scream When Dropped
15 articles · Updated · CNET · May 13
CNET confirmed the new Steam Controller plays a randomized Wilhelm scream when dropped, even from about 3 feet onto a sofa and without being paired to a PC or Steam Deck.
The trigger appears inconsistent by design: light drops can produce the sound, harder falls may not, and repeated drops can alternate between screams and silence.
The effect is generated through the controller's haptic motors acting like a speaker, extending an Easter egg first surfaced by Reddit and earlier reports from gaming outlets.
The hidden feature adds to interest in Valve's $99 controller, showing how haptics can deliver standalone audio gags beyond normal gameplay feedback.
Is a controller's secret scream the first sign of a global tech crisis fueled by the AI boom?
As 'RAMageddon' threatens the sub-$500 PC, are budget-conscious gamers being permanently priced out of the market?
With AI data centers straining global power, is the tech industry now forced to become its own energy provider?