The text discusses the ongoing debate between using a mouse and keyboard versus a controller in first-person shooters (FPS). The author reflects on their experiences with various games, noting that gameplay dynamics can differ significantly based on the input method. In particular, they found that while playing Halo with a mouse and keyboard was enjoyable, it lacked the immersive intensity experienced with a controller. The design of Halo's enemies is noted to complement controller use, enhancing combat engagement. The author also mentions their experience with Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, where they found the controller more intuitive due to design choices favoring controller users, such as analog movement and aim assist. They express surprise at how well classic titles like Doom adapted to controller play, leading to a reevaluation of input preferences in FPS games.
Amazon is offering significant discounts on a top-rated PC controller this Black Friday. The Xbox wireless controller, which has over 17,000 five-star reviews, is currently priced at .99, down from its original price of .99. It features a comfortable grip, rumble motors, and a hybrid D-pad, but relies on AA batteries for power. The Heart Breaker and Ice Breaker variants are also on sale for .00, reduced from .99.
The ROG Xbox Ally is a handheld gaming console that integrates with Xbox's Game Pass subscription service, allowing access to a wide library of games. It operates as a portable computer running Windows, enabling users to play many digital PC games they already own, provided they do not require a keyboard and mouse. The device retails at £499, with a more powerful version available for £799. It features ergonomic controller grips, responsive thumbsticks, and functional face buttons, and it has a capable LCD display that delivers a rich visual experience. While it can run modern games well, users may face compatibility issues with some older titles. The device is designed primarily for Xbox's Game Pass, which includes classic and contemporary games, and offers cloud streaming capabilities. The ROG Xbox Ally competes in a market dominated by the Nintendo Switch and Sony's PlayStation Portal, arriving after the Valve Steam Deck. It runs on Windows 11, which may require users to navigate updates before gameplay.
Microsoft has released two new gamepad designs inspired by the upcoming game Outer Worlds 2, available through the Xbox Design Lab. The controllers feature the Moon Man logo, a nebula design in black, green, and neon pink on an off-white background, and lime green thumbsticks. The Elite Series 2 controller includes textured grips and a Special Energy Chroma iridescent color theme for the d-pad and rear paddles. The standard Xbox Wireless controller is priced at .98, while the Elite Series 2 controller costs 9.98, with potential price increases for additional accessories or design modifications.
Microsoft has introduced Xbox Mode for Windows 11, which is part of the Windows 11 25H2 update. This feature allows handheld gaming PCs, such as the Asus ROG Ally and MSI Claw, to operate similarly to dedicated gaming consoles by launching directly into the Xbox PC app and bypassing the traditional Windows desktop. It frees up approximately 2GB of memory for a more efficient gaming experience and provides a streamlined interface that aggregates games from multiple platforms. The mode includes a Game Bar for easy access to controls and a revamped task view for switching between applications. Users can still run Windows applications within this mode, and early adopters have successfully implemented it on devices like the original ROG Ally. Setting up this mode involves installing a Release Preview version of Windows 11 and making registry adjustments, which can lead to instability if not done carefully.
KontrolFreek has released a new line of officially licensed thumbsticks, starting at a price of .99 on Amazon. The Minecraft Creeper Edition thumbsticks feature the Creeper face design and are compatible with PS5 and Xbox Series X/S controllers, as well as Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons and Switch 2 Pro Controller. The thumbsticks are designed to enhance gameplay comfort and experience. Users have reported that the added elevation improves comfort during extended gaming sessions.
