Controller Technology
Ongoing coverage on Controller Technology.
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Xbox Elite Series 3 controller leaks and appears to offer better analogue sticks, advanced haptics, d-pad choices and more
Leaked information from Xbox's Design Lab website suggests the upcoming Xbox Elite Series 3 controller will feature Hall Effect and TMR analogue sticks to prevent drift, advanced haptics similar to the PlayStation 5's DualSense, and customizable options including multiple d-pad choices. The leak also hints at two main versions, 'Base' and 'Complete', with optional haptic motors.
Your pro controller's back buttons could be the answer to Control Resonant's spongy enemies
This article offers solutions for the 'spongy' enemy issue in Control Resonant by leveraging controller back buttons. It suggests mapping attack functions to these buttons on PlayStation 5, Xbox, and PC controllers to reduce repetitive strain and fatigue, while also touching on macro functions for combat combos. The author notes that while spongy enemies are a game design problem, hardware solutions can mitigate player discomfort.
It may be controversial, but this 8,000Hz TMR controller doesn't feel as good as its original 1,000Hz model with vibration and wireless play
The GameSir Tarantula 8K controller, while featuring advanced TMR sticks and an 8K polling rate, is criticized for its lack of wireless play and vibration motors, making it feel less versatile than its original 1,000Hz model. The lightweight design and wired-only connectivity are seen as drawbacks for general use, though it may appeal to competitive PC players.
SteelSeries Unveils Aeon Pro Controller With QuickSwitch Dock and Dual Hot-Swappable Batteries | Invision
SteelSeries has unveiled the Aeon Pro Controller, a new premium controller for PC and Xbox gamers featuring a QuickSwitch Dock System and dual hot-swappable batteries for continuous power. It also includes Hall Effect Thumbsticks, mechanical controls, and an onboard OLED screen for customization.
SteelSeries throws everything but the kitchen sink in the feature list of its Aeon Pro controller
SteelSeries' Aeon Pro controller boasts a high-end feature set, including dual-docking for PC and Xbox, Hall effect thumbsticks and triggers, hot-swappable batteries, and an OLED screen. However, its steep $260 price tag and some minor button feel issues, along with lacking 8K polling, make its value proposition questionable compared to competitors.
"The most ambitious product we've ever built" - Genki is crowdfunding a Steam Controller killer with TMR sticks, an on-board display with its own OS, an 8K polling rate, and mouse and keyboard functionality
Gaming accessory brand Genki has launched a Kickstarter campaign for the Genki Manta, a new controller featuring TMR sticks, an on-board display with its own OS, adjustable tension, and mouse and keyboard functionality. The controller aims to compete with the Steam Controller and offers advanced features like Maglev Haptics and face buttons that sense full travel. It is slated for support on PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and mobile platforms.
GameSir launches the reborn Tarantula Pro controller for PC and Xbox players, but Amazon stock is "expected at a…
GameSir has launched its revived Tarantula Pro controller series, featuring an 8K polling rate model for PC and an officially licensed Xbox model. The PC version boasts Gen-2 Mag-Res TMR sticks and microswitch buttons, priced at $69.99 / £79.99. An "Ultra" model with vibration motors is also confirmed for a future release.
PlayStation 6 Controller Might Fix DualSense’s Biggest Problem
Sony Interactive Entertainment has filed patents for a new controller design that may address the prevalent stick drift issue affecting current PlayStation controllers. The proposed design utilizes magnetic sticks and a spring-based mechanism to improve sensitivity and performance over prolonged use, potentially for the PlayStation 6.
Control Issues
A recently published PlayStation patent reveals a design for a modular controller featuring a touchscreen. This innovation suggests Sony is exploring new input methods and customization options for future gaming hardware.
Best retro controllers 2026: perfect pads for your classic consoles and games
This guide explores the best modern retro controllers available for classic consoles, highlighting options from companies like Gulikit, 8Bitdo, Retro-Bit, and Retro Fighters. It details controllers suitable for Sega Genesis, Sega Saturn, Nintendo 64, Sega Dreamcast, PlayStation consoles, original Xbox, GameCube, and Game Boy, emphasizing features like wireless connectivity, hall-effect sensors, and improved ergonomics for an enhanced retro gaming experience.
PlayStation patents can get weird, but none are more bizarre than this joystick with an "operation member"…
Sony has patented a bizarre joystick design featuring an "operation member" with a hardness control unit, which could be an evolution of the haptic feedback seen in the PlayStation 5's DualSense controller. While the patent itself is unusual, it suggests Sony is exploring advanced adaptive trigger resistance for future controllers, potentially enhancing immersion in games like The Last of Us Part II or God of War.
Sony Didn’t Do It, So Someone Else Made An App To Unlock DualSense On PC
A third-party app called DSX has released a beta update that enables full wireless functionality for the PlayStation 5's DualSense controller on PC, including haptic feedback and Bluetooth audio. Previously, users could only access these features by connecting the controller via USB-C. Sony has not released an official solution for unlocking the controller's full potential on PC.
I just found a cheeky way to get my favorite retro controller for less, but you should also keep it on your Prime Day…
The author highlights a current discount on the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro controller, a Sega Saturn-inspired gamepad, available for $37.99 via an Amazon coupon. While not a massive saving, it's presented as a way to get a versatile retro controller before Prime Day, which is also mentioned as a potential sale period for similar items.
The DualSense can still drift, but Sony may be exploring magnetic tech for shape-shifting buttons in whatever comes next
Sony has patented new controller technology that could allow buttons to change hardness and shape in real-time, potentially enhancing tactile feedback and offering accessibility benefits. This innovation builds upon the haptic features found in the PlayStation 5's DualSense controller, though its release on PC is uncertain.
New PlayStation Patent Describes Controllers With Buttons That Can Soften and Harden on Demand
Sony has patented new controller technology that allows face buttons to dynamically change hardness and texture in real-time, offering enhanced tactile feedback for gameplay. The patent describes using magnetoviscoelastic materials or fluid-filled membranes to mimic in-game events like finger grabs or environmental interactions. This technology also has potential applications for accessibility, adapting button feedback for various body parts.
Sony Files Patent Application For Controller With Buttons That Harden Around Your Finger
Sony has filed a patent application for a new controller design that features buttons capable of changing their physical properties, such as hardening or softening. This technology could potentially be integrated into future PlayStation controllers, offering new ways to simulate in-game actions and enhance player immersion, similar to the adaptive triggers on the current DualSense.
Control Issues
Sony has patented a new controller design for its PlayStation platform that features buttons capable of hardening during gameplay. This innovation aims to enhance player interaction and control.
Rising prices mean the DualShock 4 is back on the menu, and looking pretty tasty
Sony is offering refurbished DualShock 4 controllers for $34 on its PS Direct site, addressing scarcity and high resale prices for the popular PlayStation 4 gamepad. Despite the existence of the newer DualSense, the DualShock 4 remains a compelling option for PC gamers due to its battery life, compatibility, and lower cost, especially when considering accessories like the Back Button Attachment.
I tried an 8,000Hz polling controller so you don't have to, but depending on the games you play, you might want to
The GameSir G7 Pro 8K PC controller offers an 8,000Hz polling rate, a significant upgrade for PC gamers, particularly in first-person shooter titles where precision is paramount. While the increased sensitivity may require an adjustment period and might not benefit all game genres, its competitive pricing and future-proofing make it a compelling option for enthusiasts. The controller maintains features like rumble motors and swappable thumbsticks, enhancing its value proposition.
Preorder 8BitDo’s Stunning Ultimate 3 Controller In Lavender Dusk
8BitDo has opened preorders for its new Ultimate 3 controller in the 'Lavender Dusk' colorway, set to release in August for $100. The controller features customizable TMR joysticks with Force Ring technology, hall-effect impulse triggers, and configurable R4/L4 buttons. It also includes a charging dock and is compatible with PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch.