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# Virtual Reality Gamepads
The SteelSeries Stratus XL is One of the First VR-Compatible Gamepads

By Brannon G. | Published 2016-08-29 | Tech
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/virtual-reality-gamepad
References: [techu4ria](http://techu4ria.com/steelseries-stratus-xl-review/) & [steelseries](https://steelseries.com/gaming-controllers/stratus-xl-for-windows-and-android)

The new [SteelSeries](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/steelseries-stratus) Stratus XL is a highly compatible gaming controller that's perfect for Android and PC gaming.

What many don't know though is that the SteelSeries Stratus XL is also compatible with the [Samsung](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/android-xr) Gear VR, HTC Vive and the [Oculus](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nova-vr-senseglove) Rift. This is great news for gamers looking to hop into VR but don't want to stray too far away from using a traditional gamepad while gaming.

The SteelSeries Stratus XL looks to cover every gaming platform possible by supporting smartphones, PCs, tablets and virtual reality hardware.

With its ergonomic comfort, wireless Bluetooth connection and familiar design, this is a gaming pad that many VR gamers will be highly interested in. It will give them the opportunity to play their games in a traditional manner as they transition into VR gaming.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 2.7/10
- Popularity: 30% | Activity: 43% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women
- Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial
- Top markets: North America, Europe

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets)

## Key Themes

### What Makes This Trend Stand Out

- **Virtual Reality Gaming:** The compatibility of the SteelSeries Stratus XL with VR headsets opens up opportunities for immersive gaming experiences.
- **Cross-platform Gaming:** The SteelSeries Stratus XL's wide compatibility across different devices allows for seamless gaming experiences across various platforms.
- **Traditional Gamepad Integration:** The ergonomic design and familiar controls of the SteelSeries Stratus XL cater to gamers who prefer the traditional gamepad experience even in virtual reality.

### Sectors Adopting This

- **Gaming:** The VR-compatible gamepad presents new possibilities for game developers to create innovative and interactive virtual reality gaming experiences.
- **Virtual Reality:** The introduction of compatible gamepads like the SteelSeries Stratus XL enhances the VR gaming experience by providing familiar controls and increased immersion.
- **Mobile Technology:** The compatibility of the SteelSeries Stratus XL with smartphones and tablets expands the possibilities for mobile gaming while preserving the convenience of traditional gamepad controls.

## Related on Trend Hunter

- [Immersive Mobile Gaming Solutions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/viture-x-8bitdo-ultimate-mobile-controller.md)
- [Mobile Gaming Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/steelseries-stratus.md)
- [Responsive Feedback VR Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/haptic-vr-controller.md)
- [Multi-Modal Gaming Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hyperx.md)
- [Adaptive VR Controller Concepts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/unreal-control-gaming-controller.md)
- [Custom Virtual Reality Accessories](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/developer-strap.md)
- [Telescoping Smartphone Gaming Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/elo-vagabond.md)
- [Realistic Weaponry Game Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vir-controller.md)
- [Hybrid Multi-System Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/powera.md)