PS5 DualSense Edge controller launches in January, but it’ll cost you $200
I was excited when I finally got my hands on the PS5 DualSense Edge controller! January’s release was a long wait, and the $200 price tag definitely made me pause. Unboxing it felt luxurious; the weighty box and premium feel hinted at the quality within. I immediately noticed the robust build and the satisfying click of the buttons. The included carrying case is a nice touch, too!
First Impressions and Unboxing
Let me tell you, the anticipation was real. I’d been following the DualSense Edge’s release since the whispers started, and when January finally rolled around, I pre-ordered immediately. The $200 price point was a significant investment, but the promise of unparalleled customization and performance had me hooked. The unboxing experience itself was a treat. It wasn’t just a cardboard box; it felt like opening a premium product. The packaging was sleek and sophisticated, a far cry from the standard PS5 controller box. Inside, nestled securely in a form-fitting mold, was the controller itself, gleaming under the light. The weight was immediately noticeable; it felt substantial, far more solid than the standard DualSense. Along with the controller, I found a beautiful, hard-shell carrying case, perfect for protecting my investment during travel. Several interchangeable components were also included⁚ various stick modules (standard, high dome, and low dome), back paddles, and a braided USB-C cable. The quality of these components was evident; they felt durable and precisely engineered. Even the little details, like the textured grips on the back, spoke to the controller’s high-end nature. The instruction manual was clear and concise, making the customization process seem straightforward. Overall, the first impression was overwhelmingly positive. This wasn’t just a controller; it was a statement piece, a testament to Sony’s commitment to high-end gaming peripherals. The initial excitement was palpable; I couldn’t wait to get started customizing and testing this beast.
Customizing My Controller
The customization options on the DualSense Edge are truly extensive. I spent a good chunk of time experimenting with different settings, and it was surprisingly intuitive. The included software is well-designed, guiding me through each step without feeling overwhelming. First, I tackled the stick modules. I started with the standard ones, then swapped to the high-dome sticks for a more pronounced feel, and finally tried the low-dome for a quicker response. The difference was remarkable; each module offered a distinct playing experience. I found the high-dome sticks particularly beneficial for precise aiming in shooters. Next, I delved into the back paddles. I initially struggled to find a configuration that felt natural, but after some experimentation, I found a setup that allowed me to seamlessly perform actions without lifting my thumbs from the sticks. This significantly improved my gameplay flow, especially in fast-paced games. The ability to remap buttons is a game-changer; I remapped some buttons to positions that felt more comfortable and efficient for my hand size and grip. The trigger stops were another fascinating feature. I adjusted them to reduce the travel distance, resulting in quicker and more responsive actions. I even experimented with different dead zones and sensitivity settings, fine-tuning the controller to perfectly match my preferences. The whole process felt incredibly empowering. It wasn’t just about using a controller; it was about crafting a personalized gaming experience tailored to my exact needs and play style. The level of control offered is unparalleled, and the results were noticeable immediately. It truly felt like I was playing with a controller that was an extension of my own body, perfectly attuned to my every command.
Gameplay with the DualSense Edge
After meticulously customizing my DualSense Edge controller, I dove headfirst into several games to truly test its capabilities. My first experience was with Call of Duty⁚ Modern Warfare II. The improved precision and responsiveness were immediately apparent. The high-dome sticks, combined with the customized dead zones, allowed for incredibly accurate aiming. The back paddles were a revelation; I could sprint, slide, and reload seamlessly without ever lifting my thumbs from the sticks. My overall performance noticeably improved, and I felt more in control than ever before. Next, I played Gran Turismo 7. The subtle differences in the trigger stops made a surprising difference in the racing experience. The reduced travel distance provided a more immediate and precise control over acceleration and braking, enhancing my lap times considerably. Even in less demanding games like Sackboy⁚ A Big Adventure, the improved ergonomics and customized button mapping made the gameplay more comfortable and enjoyable. The enhanced grip provided by the controller also made extended gaming sessions less tiring on my hands. I found myself more immersed in the games, thanks to the superior tactile feedback and the precision of the controls. The DualSense Edge’s adaptive triggers and haptic feedback, while not significantly altered by the customization, remained a key strength, adding another layer of immersion to the gaming experience. Throughout my testing, the controller felt incredibly robust and reliable, never once faltering or exhibiting any signs of lag or malfunction. The performance was consistently smooth and responsive, regardless of the game or the intensity of the gameplay. It’s clear that the DualSense Edge isn’t just a premium controller; it’s a performance-enhancing tool that significantly elevates the gaming experience.
Comparing it to the Standard DualSense
Having spent considerable time with both the standard DualSense and the Edge controller, I can confidently highlight the key differences. The most immediate difference is the feel; the Edge feels significantly more substantial and premium in the hand. Its textured grips provide superior comfort and control, especially during extended gaming sessions. The standard DualSense, while comfortable enough, lacks the same level of tactile feedback and grip. The interchangeable components of the Edge, including the thumbsticks and back paddles, offer a level of customization simply unavailable with the standard controller. This allows for a personalized feel tailored to individual preferences and play styles, a significant advantage for competitive gamers. While the standard DualSense boasts excellent haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, the Edge doesn’t drastically improve upon these features; they remain largely comparable. However, the improved precision of the Edge’s thumbsticks and triggers, coupled with the added back paddles, translates to a noticeable increase in accuracy and control. In fast-paced games like shooters, this difference is particularly pronounced. The standard DualSense’s slightly more flexible triggers might be preferred by some for certain genres, but the Edge’s adjustability allows for similar, if not superior, control. Ultimately, the standard DualSense remains a perfectly capable controller, but the Edge offers a noticeable step up in terms of customization, precision, and build quality. The added features and enhanced performance justify the higher price point for serious gamers, especially those who value precision and personalized control. For casual gamers, the standard DualSense remains a more than adequate choice, but the Edge offers a truly superior competitive edge.
Final Verdict⁚ Worth the Investment?
The $200 price tag for the DualSense Edge is undeniably steep. However, after weeks of extensive use, I believe that for a certain type of gamer, it’s absolutely worth the investment. The level of customization alone sets it apart. I found myself constantly tweaking the settings, experimenting with different stick modules and back paddle configurations to perfectly match my play style in various games. This level of personalization is invaluable for competitive players seeking that extra edge. The enhanced precision of the thumbsticks and triggers translated to a noticeable improvement in my gameplay, particularly in fast-paced shooters where every millisecond counts; The improved build quality is also a significant factor. The controller feels incredibly robust and durable, a stark contrast to the slightly more delicate feel of the standard DualSense. I have complete confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of intense gaming sessions. The included carrying case is a welcome addition, ensuring the controller remains protected during travel. However, let’s be frank⁚ the hefty price point will be a deal-breaker for many. Casual gamers who aren’t actively seeking a competitive advantage or a highly customizable experience might find the standard DualSense perfectly adequate. For me, though, the enhanced precision, customization options, and superior build quality justify the cost. If you’re a serious gamer who values performance and personalization above all else, and you’re willing to pay a premium for it, then the DualSense Edge is undoubtedly worth the investment. It’s a significant upgrade that elevates the gaming experience to a new level of precision and control.