Controller Design
Ongoing coverage on Controller Design.
Latest coverage
The wireless Scuf Valor Pro controller will remind you why comfort is one of the most important aspects of choosing your gaming peripherals
The Scuf Valor Pro Wireless controller offers significant comfort improvements over its predecessor, featuring deep grips and a traditional Xbox shape that makes it a joy to hold for extended gaming sessions. While its responsive buttons and build quality are commendable, its high price point and lack of extensive customization options compared to similarly priced competitors present a challenge.
Turtle Beach has transformed Fortnite's Kevin the Cube into one of the best-looking wireless Switch 2 pads…
Turtle Beach has unveiled a new wireless controller for the Nintendo Switch inspired by Fortnite's Kevin the Cube. The $69.99 Rematch controller features a purple exterior with runes and customizable RGB lighting effects. It includes a Capoeira emote for Fortnite and boasts a 40-hour battery life, with a launch date of October 8.
Why is the GameCube controller so loved by gamers?
The Nintendo GameCube controller remains highly regarded by gamers due to its unique design, leading Nintendo to continue supporting it for 25 years. Its enduring popularity highlights the lasting impact of thoughtful controller ergonomics.
Xbox Elite Series 3 prototype surfaces on OfferUp with a mini display on board
A prototype Xbox Elite Series 3 controller, featuring a mini display for mode switching, has surfaced on OfferUp. Leaked diagrams from May align with the controller's design, including new scroll wheels and a secondary wireless mode for Xbox Cloud Gaming. Despite its features, the prototype is non-functional and was purchased for $200.
The Scuf Envision Pro's biggest selling point is exactly why I wouldn't recommend it
The Scuf Envision Pro controller for PC gaming is praised for its comfort, design, and satisfying face buttons, but its unique side buttons are too easily mispressed, hindering its overall recommendation. While the controller offers innovative features like Hall sticks and magnetic faceplates, the execution of the side buttons and the reliance on Corsair's iCUE software are significant drawbacks.
The ELO Vagabond combines the best parts of Razer and GameSir to make the ultimate mobile controller
The ELO Vagabond is a new mobile controller that blends the comfort and grip of devices like the GameSir G8 with the design of the Razer Kishi V3 Pro, offering a more traditional gamepad feel. Priced at $99, it aims to provide a premium experience without the highest market cost, supporting PlayStation Remote Play and Xbox Game Pass.
Should the PS6 and next Xbox have back buttons on their controllers? Have your say
This article discusses whether the PlayStation 6 and next Xbox controllers should include back buttons as a standard feature. It highlights the increasing prevalence of back buttons on PC controllers and argues that Sony and Microsoft should integrate them into their official next-gen offerings, citing cost-effectiveness and player demand. The piece also touches on potential pricing strategies and the blurring lines between console and PC gaming.
PlayStation 6 Controller Might Feature Touchscreen Display
Sony Interactive Entertainment has filed a patent for a modular PlayStation controller that could feature a detachable touchscreen, potentially for the PlayStation 6 or a new handheld device. The design includes a dial and allows for customizable component placement, suggesting a focus on user preference and cross-device usability.
Opinion: 30 Years On, I've Finally Come Around On The N64 Pad
After initially disliking the Nintendo 64 controller, the author has come to appreciate its unique design after revisiting it through the Nintendo Switch Online app. While acknowledging its unconventional nature compared to modern controllers, the author finds the N64 pad works well for the games it was designed for and has become a favorite.
Sony’s DualShock Controller: Love Redefined
The article discusses the initial unfamiliarity and eventual appreciation for Sony's DualShock controller, contrasting its design with that of the Nintendo 64 controller. It explores the evolution of controller ergonomics and player adaptation.
The Xbox Wireless Controller X25 is neat, but I've tested a translucent green alternative that works with the…
The article compares Microsoft's upcoming Xbox Wireless Controller X25 with the Retro Fighters Hunter, a third-party wireless controller. While the X25 celebrates the Xbox's 25th anniversary with a translucent green design, the Hunter offers wider compatibility across older and newer Xbox systems, PC, and Switch, along with features like hall-effect joysticks for a potentially lower price.
This wireless Sega Dreamcast controller whips, but my fighting games think I got the wrong version
The Retro Fighters StrikerDC wireless controller offers a modern feel for the Sega Dreamcast, but the author recommends the Retro Fighters D6 for fighting game enthusiasts due to its six-button layout and disc-shaped D-pad. The D6 also offers PC and Switch compatibility, making it a more versatile option for its price point.
The Elite Series 2 set the bar for years of controller design, but the leaked Elite Series 3 just looks like more of the…
Leaked images of the purported Xbox Elite Series 3 controller suggest a design that may not significantly innovate beyond the Elite Series 2, potentially struggling to compete with advanced third-party controllers. The article analyzes expected features like Hall sensor thumbsticks, microswitch buttons, and new scrollable wheels, comparing them to current market offerings and highlighting the need for advanced tech to justify its premium price point.
The Steam Controller is unmatched at letting you play mouse and keyboard games from the couch, but as a gamepad it loses out
The Steam Controller offers unparalleled versatility for playing PC games from the couch, particularly those designed for mouse and keyboard input, thanks to its innovative trackpads. While it excels in comfort and PC navigation, it falls short as a traditional gamepad compared to similarly priced alternatives and has some drawbacks in its software integration and button actuation.
The Retro Fighters Hunter is a fierce wireless OG Xbox controller, but I'm torn on whether its too much like Microsoft's modern gamepad
The Retro Fighters Hunter is a wireless controller for the Original Xbox that blends modern ergonomics with retro aesthetics, featuring hall-effect thumbsticks and era-authentic face buttons. While praised for its comfort and compatibility with both the Original Xbox and PC, its design closely resembles modern Xbox controllers, leading to a debate about its authenticity as a retro accessory.
You can adjust the thumbstick tension of this Xbox controller with a quick twist in either direction, and that impacted my gameplay in more ways than I expected
The Flydigi Vader 5S is an officially licensed Xbox controller that stands out with its easily adjustable thumbstick tension, a feature not found on other official Xbox controllers. While it is a wired-only model and a 'lite' version of the Vader 5 Pro, its premium build quality, accessible software, and unique tension adjustment make it a compelling option for gamers seeking a personalized feel.
Star Fox on Switch 2 calls for a new N64 controller, and I've got the perfect gamepad for the job
The author discusses the upcoming Star Fox remake for the Nintendo Switch and suggests that the 8Bitdo N64 controller would be a perfect gamepad for the title. While the game will be playable with standard controllers, the article argues that the modernized N64 controller's layout offers an authentic and potentially superior experience for the on-rail shooter.
Steam Controller took "easily hundreds" of attempts to get its layout right, but did Valve nail it?
Valve product designers Lawrence Yang and Steve Cardinali revealed that the Steam Controller underwent hundreds of prototypes and rapid iteration cycles, starting in early 2023. The team focused on ergonomics, trackpad integration, and input responsiveness, even consulting with fighting game professionals to refine the D-pad.
Engadget Podcast: Is the Valve Steam Controller worth $100?
The Engadget Podcast discusses the Valve Steam Controller, questioning its $100 price point and its distinction from a traditional PC gamepad. The conversation explores its unique design and potential value for PC gamers.
The Steam Controller's trackpads could be massive for helping me make a dent in my city-building, cozy gaming…
The author explores how the Steam Controller's trackpads could enhance the experience of playing PC city-building and management simulation games on a couch. While many such games are designed for mouse and keyboard, the Steam Controller's hybrid input aims to bridge this gap, offering a more comfortable and intuitive way to play titles like Planet Coaster and The Red Strings Club.
