Hyperkin PlayStation-Style symmetrical Stick Xbox Controller!

In this episode, we discuss updates from Hyperkin regarding their Competitor Controller coming to the Xbox, featuring a PlayStation-Style symmetrical stick layout.

WAY back at E3 in 2019, Hyperkin teased a new controller for the Xbox One S and X at the time called the Competitor. Featuring a design closer to what fans of PlayStation Controllers might prefer, this was something I was immediately interested in and reached out to my Hyperkin contacts to learn more about. It has been almost 4 years since that initial tease, and now Hyperkin has more information to share.

From Hyperkin's official press release:
Hyperkin's the Competitor Controller Will Now Include Hall Effect Sticks and Hall Effect Impulse Triggers

August 23, 2023 (Los Angeles, Calif.) Hyperkin has announced that the previously announced Competitor - an officially Xbox-licensed wired controller for Xbox Series X|S/ Xbox One / Windows 10|11 – will now include hall effect analog sticks and hall effect impulse triggers. The Competitor also has a symmetrical, side-by-side analog stick layout. Xbox controllers traditionally have an asymmetrical offset layout. The Competitor will be available for a first look/hands-on at Gamescom 2023 by appointment only.

What is Hall Effect Technology?

The biggest update to the controller is the inclusion of hall effect analog sticks and hall effect impulse triggers. Hall effect sensors use magnets in their design to detect movement, meaning high-precision gameplay without risk of deterioration. Say goodbye to stick drift and trigger wear!

Hall Effect Sticks: Ensures quick, accurate, and responsive control, giving you a competitive edge in every game.

Hall Effect Impulse Triggers: Experience realistic feedback as you feel every shot, explosion, and impact, with hall effect precision.

Additional Features:
• Modern amenities for Xbox Series X|S: Menu, View and Share buttons
• Vibration feedback for realistic experiences
• 3.5 mm headset jack
• Detachable Type-C cable

Details regarding the launch date and MSRP will be revealed at a later date.

My initial thoughts:
First and foremost, I am THRILLED to see that this controller has not been forgotten about. The was teased about 7 months before the pandemic, so things definitely were affected there. The fact that this is now getting an update makes me very happy.

I'll say that the mold for the Contender does appear to be slightly updated. The grips remind me more now of the Switch Pro Controller than previously. I am also glad to see that, much like their Xenon Controller, this is including a detachable USB-C and not a Micro USB cable. That is something that has likely been changed due to the delay, as in 2019 the odds of Micro USB would be fairly high.

While I am glad to see USB-C, I'm a bit bummed that this is a wired controller. In 2023 I don't want to be tied down with a wired cable between me and my system, especially with a preschooler, a dog, cat, and 2 puppies running around. I want to cut the cord. I am not sure if that is not something that can be done due to licensing agreements with Microsoft, however.

That is also an important feature to note. The Competitor controller IS actually officially licensed by Microsoft for use on the Xbox Series S, Series X, One X, One S, and Windows 10/11 machines.

Having used a number of controllers in recent months with Hall Effect Sensors I am a big fan myself. They are so precise and smooth, plus you just don't have the wear and tear concerns like with traditional Potentiometer controllers. I don't have any information regarding the price, but I would assume that $40-to-$60 would be about where these will land. ETA is still to be determined, but I for one cannot wait to get my hands on one of these!

Let me know what your thoughts are in the comments! Do you prefer the symmetrical or asymmetrical stick layout on your controllers? Do you plan on ordering one of these? Did you remember this being teased?

#Xbox #Hyperkin #Contender #Controller #HallEffect #E3 #HyperkinLabs #PlayStation