Sony's current-gen console, the PlayStation 5, brought a host of new features to the gaming world when it launched in November 2020. Besides the improved loading times and graphical quality, its new controller, the DualSense, gained the favor of the masses. Its haptic feedback and adaptive triggers create a far more immersive experience for gamers who also appreciate the solid feel of the controller. Unfortunately, the DualSense does have a slight tendency to suffer from stick drift and lacks many real accessibility and customization options.
Sony has recognized this fact and responded with the announcement of a new PlayStation 5 controller, the DualSense Edge, at the recent Gamescom Opening Night Live event. It will be the company's "first-ever high-performance, ultra-customizable controller." It comes with a variety of options for players to adapt the controller to suit their preferred playstyle, as well as some neat aesthetic touches. Here's everything fans will want to know about the DualSense Edge.
Naturally, the DualSense Edge retains all the characteristics of the regular DualSense, meaning it still has the haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, motion controls, and built-in microphone -- features that elevate the experience of many games. It's also wireless and can be charged via the included USB Type-C cable, which provides a sturdier connection, or while stored in its carrying case, which also comes with the controller.
The most noticeable difference between the DualSense Edge and the regular DualSense controller is the inclusion of changeable stick caps and back buttons. There are three different types of stick caps -- standard, high dome, and low dome -- included with the controller to let players find the style of grip that suits them best. The stick modules themselves are also fully replaceable. However, these parts will be sold separately. There are also two kinds of back buttons in the form of either a half dome or lever, which can be configured to be any button input, again giving players more control over their playstyle.
The DualSense Edge allows players to intricately map button layouts to their needs. For example, players can move button inputs around and even deactivate certain buttons. In addition, the sensitivity and dead zones of the controller's thumbsticks and triggers can be altered to match different game types. For example, players can reduce the travel distance for the triggers or reduce the dead zone of the thumbsticks to enable faster and more precise shooting in FPS games.
Of course, these customized settings may not suit every game type or player, so the Edge makes it easier to quickly swap between them. Each PlayStation profile can save several different controller layouts, so individuals will have their preferences ready to use at the press of a dedicated new Fn button. For instance, players could use their personalized FPS setting while playing Fortnite before easily swapping to a customized racing setting for Gran Turismo 7. The Fn button also allows players to adjust game volume, chat balance, and set up new controller layouts.
Many disabled gamers have faced accessibility issues with regular game controllers. The above options, which will allow players to both adapt the physical feel of a controller and also specifically map the controls to suit their needs, will go a long way to addressing these issues and making the PlayStation 5 and its library available for more people to enjoy.
Finally, the DualSense Edge includes some nice aesthetic touches to highlight its premium feel. Its black and white color scheme is bolder than the regular DualSense, making it stand out more from its competitors. Furthermore, both the touchpad and trigger surfaces include a subtle "PlayStation Shapes" pattern that looks classy and offers a nice nod to the iconic PlayStation branding.
The current DualSense controller is priced at $69.99, so the Edge, of course, is expected to be more. Xbox's Elite Series 2 controller, which offers a similar premium experience, is roughly $100 more than the standard Core controller, so it wouldn't be surprising if the Edge was close to that price point. However, these numbers are mere speculation at the moment as Sony has stated they'll reveal more details, including launch timings and price, over the coming months. With Sony promising to amp up PS5 production for the holiday period, there will likely be many gamers excitedly keeping an eye out for more information on the new DualSense Edge.