You might think having an extra thumb would make you a natural at video games—but that’s not always the case. When controllers are built with the standard ten-fingered player in mind, any deviation from that template can create unexpected challenges. That’s what happened to one Steam Deck owner who took to Reddit to share their experience—and received an outpouring of support and solutions.
Reddit user Alpha-Quartz explained that while they love their Steam Deck, they found the reach to the left thumbstick to be unusually difficult. The issue stems from the design of the Steam Deck itself: unlike most console controllers, the D-pad and left stick are positioned close to the top edge of the device, requiring a longer stretch for the thumb. For Alpha-Quartz, who was born with a smaller second thumb on one hand, that stretch made controlling the device frustrating and uncomfortable. They called the experience a “nightmare” compared to playing with standard Xbox or PlayStation controllers.
The post quickly struck a chord with the Steam Deck subreddit. Garnering nearly 10,000 upvotes and hundreds of responses, the community rallied around Alpha-Quartz with empathy and ingenuity. Known for their love of customization, modding, and 3D printing, Steam Deck fans immediately jumped into action.
Reddit user “SpecificGreen9140” was among the first to respond with a 3D-printed solution: a thumbstick extender that pushed the surface of the stick farther to the left, making it easier to reach. Not long after, another user, “Woogies,” improved on the design. Then came “D_Bagggg,” who created what they jokingly called an “extra thumb” attachment—for those who might want to replicate the unique hand configuration in reverse. As usual, the 3D-printing community embraced the challenge with a touch of humor and a lot of heart.
Speaking to GamesRadar, Alpha-Quartz said they were “simply overwhelmed with the amount of support and positivity.” While they’re still experimenting with which custom design offers the best fit and stability on the device, they estimate that over 100 people are working on their own versions and sending them through the mail—all in the spirit of helping out a fellow gamer.
It’s a powerful reminder of what can happen when accessibility meets community creativity. For Alpha-Quartz and others with unique needs, the support of modders and tinkerers isn’t just about gadgets—it’s about belonging.
