Nintendo's console gamepad has been added to the pantheon of controller options for PC gaming network Steam in an update to an opt-in beta programme.

The Nintendo Pro Switch Pro Controller is now officially supported by PC gaming network Steam, albeit in a work-in-progress state.

"We think it is a great device with a feature set that pairs nicely with your Steam catalog," a Valve Corp staff member explained through a post to the Steam Community site.

"The d-pad is ideal for fighting games and platformers and the gyro enhances aim in your action / first-person shooter titles."

Having opted in to the Steam Client beta, Switch Pro users can connect their controller using its built-in wireless Bluetooth function, providing their computer has the relevant receiver, or via USB cable.

The Steam client already supports PlayStation 4 and Xbox gamepads, as well as third-party gamepads that conform to PS4 and Xbox specifications and traditional mouse and keyboard interfaces.

Developers can then integrate additional support for specific devices into their games.

Valve Corp's own Steam Controller launched November 2015 and offers a hybrid approach through high levels of software-level customisation, enabling users to assign button, mouse and keyboard inputs to its shoulder pads, face buttons, thumbstick, motion-detecting gyros and dual high-res trackpads. — AFP Relaxnews