Though the PlayStation 4 release date is expected by the end of the year, Sony recently announced its PS4 DualShock 4 controllers are now available for pre-order. The price point and specs come around the same time that recurrent rival Microsoft announced similar details for its Xbox One gaming console’s motion-detecting Kinect controller.
Like the Kinect, DualShock 4 is rapidly revolutionizing the gaming plane most notably with recognition and live feedback capabilities. Included in these are a touchpad, share button, lightbar and headphone jack. The lightbar syncs with a camera on the PS4 that allows the console to track the depth similar to the Wii.
The six-axis motion sensing system will allow for the PS4 console to recognize the specific player with controller in hand, allowing the active switching of player profiles between gamers by simply handing off the DualShock 4 to their friend.
The new button options include a Share button which affords the user the opportunity to stop, record, and share certain gaming aspects, maps, campaigns, etc. to their favorite social media platforms with the help of the Start and Select buttons.
The lightbar is able to convey critical messages to the user, for example if the DualShock 4 battery is running low using a variety of colors. Of course, the lightbar also corresponds to the motion-sensing camera necessary for personalized system recognition.
The hard dimensions measure out to 162mm x 52mm x 98mm (height x width x depth) and weighs in at an easily hand-held 210 grams–a tentative estimate by Sony themselves.
As for availability, the DualShock 4 controller is available for pre-order now, for those looking for an extra for only one is included with the PS4 console. The good news it, it’ll only cost gamers an affordable (in comparison to Kinect) $59.99. The wireless Kinect controller goes for the exact same price, but Xbox loyalists could be swayed to pay the extra $15 for the a Play and Charge Kit, an expense that some may consider worth breaking the bank for.
Both controllers look to change the gaming realm for the better but let’s hear some opinions. Who out there is in favor of the DualShock 4 and who is favor of the Kinect? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
[Featured image and slideshow pics via PlayStation]
