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Licensed Third-Party Pro Controllers Coming To PlayStation 4
Despite Mark Cerny, lead system architect of the PS4, stating Sony won't be selling a pro controller, the PS4 is getting two licensed third-party pro controllers. Razer and Nacon are both developing elite PS4 controllers set to be released this holiday season for a yet-to-be-revealed price.
The Razer Raiju (above) has been designed with "advanced controller customization and ergonomics" in mind. It includes:
- Two extra bumpers and two extra detachable triggers
- Built-in control panel on the front of the controller
- Trigger-stop switches and hair trigger mode for ultra-fast trigger responses
- Two custom profiles which you can instantly switch between and modify
- 3.5mm headset jack and dedicated headset volume and mic mute controls
- Detachable analog stick rubber caps which provide extra grip during intense gaming sessions
- Compatibility with all PS4 systems via the braided 3m-long USB cable – detachable for easy storage
The Nacon Revolution (above) was designed for a "wide range of their gameplay needs." It includes:
- 46° amplitude dual analogue sticks, enhanced with innovative firmware for advanced eSports accuracy and reach
- Four extra shortcut buttons
- Eight-way directional pad
- Four custom profiles – all configurable via the companion PC application, enabling players to: re-map buttons, assign macros to the four shortcut controls and adjust analog and trigger sensitivity
- Two internal compartments with six additional weights – for a tailored balance and feel
- Compatibility with all PS4 systems via the 3m-long secure connection USB cable – detachable for easy storage
The controllers are listed for European release, but Razer is an American company, making release in North America likely. While not as refined as these elite controllers, the DualShock 4 recently saw a small upgrade, which you can read more about here.
[Source: European PlayStation Blog]
Our Take
While it's interesting that Sony isn't developing an official elite controller themselves, it's good that someone is. The Xbox Elite Controller has been met with positive reviews – even placing very highly on Game Informer's list of best controllers in the most recent issue. It's nice that Sony is giving hardcore players an alternative to the standard DualShock 4 even though the quality of these controllers remains to be seen.
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