After last month’s rather anticlimactic Mark Cerny-led deep dive event PlayStation fans have been left wanting for more news on the PS5. While we’re yet to see the console itself, Sony has given us a first look into the next generation of PlayStation hardware with the DualSense, the new wireless controller for PlayStation 5.
The DualSense is definitely a departure from the more gradual previous iterations of the DualShock. Notably the more curved shape to the controller’s arms, the repositioned light bar which now frames the touchpad and the two-tone colourway. The controller looks sleek and seems to alter the familiar form of the DualShock just enough without appearing too alien. While we’re unsure about all that white, the two-tone layout is certainly an eye-catching addition and if Sony’s history of releasing countless colour variations is anything to go by I’m sure we’ll see plenty of alternatives to the slightly sterile white finish.
However, behind the smooth, smooth curves and shiny buttons is where the real innovations lie. Aside from enhanced battery life, reduced weight and an in-built microphone the DualSense boasts a couple of significant additions. The “Share” button has been replaced by the “Create” button, although beyond knowing it offers “pioneering new ways for players to create epic gameplay content to share with the world” it looks like we’ll have to wait to find out precisely what this new button does.
Perhaps the most exciting new inclusion is haptic feedback. Advanced rumble technology “adds a variety of powerful sensations you’ll feel when you play, such as the slow grittiness of driving a car through mud.” Adaptive triggers will give you a similar sensory response, allowing you to “truly feel the tension of your actions, like when drawing a bow to shoot an arrow.” Combined with the PS5‘s Tempest 3D AudioTech, these features promise to lend a whole new level of immersion to the gaming experience.
Check out Sony CEO Jim Ryan’s full quote regarding the DualSense below:
“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.”
– Jim Ryan, President & CEO, Sony Interactive Entertainment
The DualSense seems like a great evolution of the DualShock, balancing tried-and-testing design with some worthwhile innovations. What are your thoughts on the PS5’s controller? Let us know in the comments below!
Source: PlayStation Blog
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