(oh I am still alive BTW for those wondering :D)
I Recently picked up but the Steam Link and Steam controller in the steam sale for a really good price - both are interesting pieces of tech for sure
TDLR: Steam Link = amazing must have, Steam Controller = pretty cool but not a replacement of a normal pad
Video Review
Steam Link
First up is the steam link, this tiny apple TV-esque box sits under your TV and lets you stream any steam game on your PC directly to your TV and use any controller/K&M etc. Set up is as simple as booting up, selecting a language and connecting to your wifi/wired network. Make sure your gaming PC is turned on, and the link will automatically detect your PC and prompt you to enter a pin on your desktop - thats it , set up complete
The Link will boot into big picture mode, from here, its works exactly the same as steam big picture mode on your PC, but you are basically doing it remotely, there is no real discernible lag assuming your connection is fast enough, and at 1080p streamed to your TV it looks almost as good as being natively played too!
Honestly, this is a must have for any PC gamer who wants a cheap low cost, easy solution to living room gaming, only downside is its limited to 1080p, needs a decent network and the image isnt quite as sharp as a game played natively
A must have IMO Steam Controller
This is less of a must have, but it entirely depends on your preferences, and what kinds of games you play. Set up in steam is as simple as connecting the dongle and it basically installs itself. It works great for typing on the steam link too.
The layout is strange, with some familiar features, L1/2 and R1/2 shoulder buttons, XAYB Face buttons, an analogue stick, start/select, home, but from here it differs drastically from a typical game pad, as the right analoge stick and DPAD are replaced with touch sensitive pads complete with insane haptic feedback. It also has L3/R3 buttons when you squeeze the pads under the grips! You can customise everything too
Personally, i find aiming in FPS/TPS and similar games difficult with the pad, and just not as enjoyable as a typical Xbox/Playstation style pad, however it comes into its own for playing games like Civ on a TV!
Honestly the steam controller is interesting. Its well built and works well, but for me personally, it will not replace a traditional game pad for all my gaming needs, especially FPS/TPS shooter style games
Hope you enjoyed the review, keeping it short and sweet! Feel free to ask any questions