Introduction to the Steam Controller and Mechanism’s Basegrip Accessory
Valve’s new Steam Controller is hitting stores at $99. But the real story for many gamers is what you can do with it. Mechanism, a company known for clever gaming accessories, has built something new for this launch. It’s called the Basegrip, and it lets you snap the Steam Controller right onto your phone. This is the first time anyone’s made a way to play PC games on your phone using the Steam Controller [Source: The Verge].
Mechanism is ready with more than just one gadget. They also make special mounts that let you hang controllers or handhelds on your Ikea Skadis pegboard, or almost anywhere else you want. But the Basegrip is the star—turning the Steam Controller into a portable gaming setup that goes anywhere your phone does. If you’ve ever wished your phone could feel like a real gaming handheld, this is a big deal.
Unboxing and Preparing Your Steam Controller and Basegrip
Inside the Steam Controller box, you’ll find the controller itself, a USB wireless dongle, a charging cable, and a quick start guide. The design is clean and feels solid in your hand. The Basegrip comes in its own package, usually with two main parts: the grip that snaps onto the controller, and a clamp or slide to hold your phone.
First, charge up your Steam Controller if it needs power. Follow the guide to pair it with your PC. This step is pretty simple—hold the pairing button, and it should show up on your computer’s Bluetooth list, or plug in the USB dongle for a wired connection.
Now, grab the Basegrip. Line it up with the back of your Steam Controller. Press gently but firmly until it clicks into place. You should hear or feel a soft snap. If the grip feels loose, try again and make sure it’s centered. Don’t force it—if it doesn’t fit, double-check that you have the right Basegrip model for your controller.
Check the grip for any wobbles. If it moves, tighten the screws or clips (if your model has them). You want a snug fit, so your phone won’t shake or fall off when you play. Keep the area where the grip touches the controller clean from dust or grease—this helps it grip better and keeps your gear in good shape.
Step-by-Step Guide to Mounting the Steam Controller on Your Phone
Mechanism’s phone mount is designed to work with the Basegrip. The mount usually looks like a sturdy clamp or a slide-in holder. It’s made to fit most phones, but works best with models between 5 and 7 inches, like the iPhone 14, Samsung Galaxy S23, or Google Pixel 7.
Here’s how to set it up:
- With the Basegrip on your Steam Controller, open the phone mount.
- Slide or clamp your phone into the holder. Make sure the screen faces you and it’s centered.
- Tighten the mount until your phone feels secure, but not squeezed too hard. You don’t want to crack your screen.
- Adjust the angle of the phone using the Basegrip’s hinge or pivot. Try a few positions until it feels comfortable for your hands and wrists.
- Test the buttons and sticks. Make sure you can reach everything without stretching or blocking the screen.
If you’re using a really big or thick phone case, you might need to take it off. Thin cases usually fit fine. For best results, use a phone that has a flat back and slim edges.
If you have a small phone (under 5 inches), it may sit too low or wobble. For bigger phones (over 7 inches), check Mechanism’s website for larger mounts. Use a table or soft surface to set everything up so you don’t drop your phone.
Once set, you’ve turned your Steam Controller and phone into a gaming handheld—ready to play PC games anywhere in your house, or even on the go.
Configuring Your Setup for Remote PC Gaming
Now you need to connect the Steam Controller to your PC. Most people use Bluetooth, but you can also use the USB dongle for a stronger connection. On Windows, go to Bluetooth settings, hold the pairing button on the controller, and select it when it pops up. If you want less lag, plug in the USB dongle.
Your phone is the screen. To play PC games on your phone, you need a remote play app. Steam Link is the best choice for most users. Download Steam Link from the App Store or Google Play, and sign in with your Steam account.
Next, make sure your PC and phone are on the same Wi-Fi network. Open Steam Link, and it should find your PC. Tap to connect. The app will test your connection and walk you through pairing the Steam Controller. If it doesn’t recognize the controller, unplug and replug the dongle, or restart Bluetooth pairing.
If you see lag or stuttering, try moving closer to your Wi-Fi router, using 5GHz Wi-Fi, or lowering the Steam Link video quality in settings. Wired connections (like ethernet for your PC) help reduce delay. Sometimes you need to restart both your phone and PC if things get stuck.
Once connected, start a game from your Steam library. Your phone shows the action, and the Steam Controller gives you the real gamepad feel. If buttons don’t work right, check Steam’s controller settings—sometimes you need to remap buttons or pick a different controller profile.
This setup lets you play your favorite PC games from the couch, the kitchen, or even your backyard.
Exploring Additional Uses and Mounting Options with Mechanism Accessories
Mechanism doesn’t stop at phone mounts. Their lineup includes accessories for the Ikea Skadis pegboard—a popular organizer for desks and hobby spaces. With the right mount, you can hang your Steam Controller, phone, or even handheld consoles on the wall. This keeps your gaming area tidy and your gear easy to grab.
You can also use Mechanism’s mounts to store gamepads near your PC, under a shelf, or even on the side of your desk. Some mounts stick with adhesive, others screw in, and some use special clips for pegboards. The pieces are made to mix and match, so you can create your own setup.
Gamers with small spaces can get creative. Mount controllers near your bed, set up a charging station on the wall, or hang everything out of reach from pets and kids. The modular system means if you add a new device, you just pop on a new mount.
This makes it easy to keep cables untangled and your desk clear. It also shows off your gaming gear and makes it fast to switch between setups—whether you’re playing on your phone, PC, or TV.
Conclusion: Enhancing Mobile Gaming with the Steam Controller and Basegrip
The Steam Controller and Mechanism’s Basegrip open up new ways to play. Now, you can take the power of a real controller and pair it with your phone, turning any room into a game zone. Remote PC gaming feels smoother and more fun, and you don’t need to buy a separate handheld console.
If you want to get more from your setup, check out Mechanism’s other mounts for organizing and showing off your gear. Try different setups until you find what works best for you.
As gaming shifts to more screens and spaces, simple accessories like the Basegrip keep things flexible. The best gaming setup is the one that fits your life—so explore, experiment, and get the most play out of every device you own. [Source: The Verge]
Why It Matters
- The Basegrip accessory lets gamers turn their Steam Controller and phone into a portable gaming setup for playing PC games anywhere.
- Mechanism’s innovation bridges the gap between traditional controllers and mobile gaming, enhancing flexibility for gamers on the go.
- This launch highlights the growing demand for versatile gaming hardware that adapts to different platforms and play styles.
