Today, Sony revealed their new DualSense controller for PlayStation 5. On the PlayStation blog, Sony walks gamers through what they can expect once they’re able to get their hands on a DualSense controller. The general vibe seems to be that it’s like a DualShock 4, but with a few new quality of life updates attached.
Sony unveils DualSense controller for PS5
© Sony
Sony has been quiet on their upcoming console, the PlayStation 5, until today. While there’s still a lot we don’t know about the PS5, the controllers it uses have been fully outlined. On the PlayStation blog, Sony talks about how the DualSense controller will add increased gaming immersion, especially when paired with the PS5’s Tempest 3D AudioTech.
After reading through the press release, it’s clear that Sony is building off the DualShock 4 with their new DualSense wireless controller. It may look different, but it still boasts many of the same features, although they’ve been updated, renamed, and repositioned. For example, the Share button is still present, but has been renamed as the “Create” button.
Sony didn’t elaborate on how the Create button will differ from the Share button, but it’s clear that PS5 users will be able to easily share content with it. The touch pad and light bar also make a comeback, but in different positions on the face of the controller rather than at the top. According to Sony, this gives the controller a “slightly larger look and feel.”
One of the big detriments to the DualShock 4 controller was comfort level, with many gamers preferring the feel of the Xbox One controller. Now, it looks like Sony has made the necessary adjustments to make the DualSense comfortable for gamers of all hand sizes. Gone is the single color DualShock 4. Replacing it is a two-toned design that’s white with black accents.
The dual colors are definitely striking, and we’re curious to see what color schemes Sony has planned for the DualSense as many of their DualShock 4 controller colors are absolutely gorgeous. With old inspirations out of the way, let’s talk more about what’s new.
First, the DualSense expands upon what you feel when you hold it as it utilizes haptic feedback to offer different sensations based on the games you’re playing whether it’s a racing game, a fighting game, or one based around exploration. Furthermore, the L2 and R2 buttons also use adaptive triggers that allow for things like the feeling of tension when you draw a bow.
© Sony
The angle of these triggers have subtle differences when it comes to grip which circles back to Sony’s goal of added comfort with the DualSense. The DualSense is hinted at having “strong battery life” with its rechargeable battery being lightweight, reducing the overall weight of the controller itself. With the DualShock 4, you’re able to hear sounds from the games you’re playing through the controller.
With the DualSense, this has been taken to a whole new level as the controller will feature a built-in microphone, allowing gamers to chat with their friends without having to plug in a headset. Of course, the option to plug in a headset is available as well. Concluding the press release is a brief message from President and CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment, Jim Ryan.
“DualSense marks a radical departure from our previous controller offerings and captures just how strongly we feel about making a generational leap with PS5. The new controller, along with the many innovative features in PS5, will be transformative for games – continuing our mission at PlayStation to push the boundaries of play, now and in the future. To the PlayStation community, I truly want to thank you for sharing this exciting journey with us as we head toward PS5’s launch in Holiday 2020. We look forward to sharing more information about PS5, including the console design, in the coming months.”
Overall, the PS5 controller design is interesting to say the least. In size and shape, it seems like a huge step forward from the DualShock 4. The added features like haptic feedback and adaptive triggers are exciting, and it’ll be interesting to experiment with the functionality of the new Create button and built-in mic.
After looking at the new PS5 controller, we’re eager to hear your thoughts. Do you like it? Do you hate it? Let us know down in the comments below!
