PLAYSTATION shocked fans when it revealed the PS5 pro controller, called the DualSense Edge, would be a massive £209.99 ($199.99).
Now we’ve had a chance to get our hands on one. We’ve physically touched it, switched the parts around, played with it, so we can give you the lowdown on the high price point.
Everything is customisable.
It’s heavier and sturdier than the regular DualSense, and looks similar to your standard controller.
But Sony informs us it will last much longer, helped in part by replacement analogue sticks that you can pop in and out, alongside other standalone components.
It feels complex and yet intuitive. Swapping components in and out is like playing with Lego, allowing you to get the right setup for each game you play.
Firmware will drop with the new controller’s release, introducing an app for your console that you can use to customise your experience and get information about the features.
The controller itself can store up to three profiles, so you don’t have to keep going to the menu each time a new person plays.
You can adjust the trigger’s dead zones individually depending on how strong your index finger is, and the same goes for the analogue sticks.
Everything is remappable too, a huge leap forward for accessibility, and as with the regular controllers, haptics and adaptive triggers can be reduced or disabled as well.
The caps on the analogue sticks can be swapped if you’re looking for something a bit longer. They are concave, letting your thumbs dip inside for better grip.
It also comes with a white carrying case that allows you to charge your controller without removing it.
Overall it’s these quality-of-life features that make the DualSense Edge stand out as a luxury controller.
There is also an optional braided cable that comes with a mechanical lock to stop it slipping out. The controller is wireless of course, but it’s a nice option.
Four extra buttons are fitted on the back in two different shapes which are recommended for prolonged or recurrent inputs.
These can be easily found, as a grip on the back guides you into position.
The length of the triggers can also be adjusted. For games that require fast reactions like shooters, you can use a shorter one, and for precision needed in racing games, a longer one is more suitable.
Despite all the luxurious changes, accessibility options and quality-of-life updates, it’s still hard to shift opinion on what is a remarkable price tag.
However, those with the cash to spare who want more out of their PS5 games will likely still be prepared to pick one up.
Written by Paolo Sirio and Georgina Young on behalf of GLHF.
