Explored an extraordinary Xbox controller offered by PowerA, boasting RGB illumination that dramatically elevates the usual standard.
Sitting down to play video games deserves a top-notch controller, and for me, nothing beats the feel of a pro controller over standard equipment due to its numerous extra features. From remappable back buttons to hall effect thumbsticks that won't develop stick drift, spending that bit extra to upgrade is totally worth it, and it saves the hassle of regularly buying new stock controllers as their components wear out.
I've tested numerous top-tier PC game controllers over the years, and many of them now incorporate stunning RGB lighting into their designs. Controllers have come a long way, boasting subtle customizable lighting near the home buttons to extensive lightstrips that wrap completely around them.
But then I stumbled upon the PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless Controller for Xbox Series X/S and PC, and it's taken RGB lighting to a whole new level. Like other pro controllers, the Fusion boasts an impressive feature set and includes a carrying case. However, it's the RGB Ghost Lighting that left me speechless. Let's delve deeper and find out what makes this controller so unique.
Price: US$149 at Amazon (was US$159)
This controller wirelessly connects to both Xbox and PC, equipped with pro-level features such as remappable back buttons, hall effect thumbsticks, and trigger locks that you'd expect at this price point. A carrying case and magnetic charging stand are included in the package. The controller's standout feature is the RGB Ghost Lighting, which truly takes center stage.
Price Check: US$89 used at Amazon Renewed
Pro as it gets
When you decide to invest in a pro controller, you can count on it to come with an array of accessories. The PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless Controller is no exception and includes a carrying case, in addition to a controller stand with a magnetic wireless charger. If space is tight on your entertainment center or desk, simply detach the charger for a sleek one-piece setup.
At first glance, the Fusion Pro Wireless Controller may appear to be a standard Xbox controller, but upon closer inspection, you'll notice anti-friction rings surrounding the hall effect thumbsticks, as well as microphone controls located at the bottom of the controller below the 3.5mm audio jack.
While the Xbox Elite Series 2 pro controller offers a profile-switch button, the Fusion sports a dedicated screenshot button instead. Interestingly, the stand also has a trick up its sleeve: it houses the slot for the controller's wireless USB adapter. Although it features Bluetooth connectivity, you'll need this adapter to play wirelessly on Xbox. While there isn't a USB port in the stand, it's a minor issue that won't affect your gameplay experience much.
When flipping the Fusion Pro Wireless Controller over, you'll find even more pro-level treats. The ergonomic backside handles are equipped with rubber grips, four remappable back buttons, and trigger locks for quicker response times in first-person shooter games.
What truly sets PowerA's pro and enhanced controllers apart from the competition is the ability to use the back buttons to customize their remappable controls on the fly. Although an app can help, having the ability to quickly reprogram your back buttons for various games is an incredibly useful feature.
Unlike other pro controllers that use swappable thumbsticks, which can be easily misplaced without proper storage, PowerA has cut corners differently with its latest controllers. Twisting the thumbsticks on the Fusion Pro Wireless Controller allows for height adjustments without removing the controller's faceplate. You can choose from three different height settings, and the process is quick, easy, and entirely toilet-bowl clean.
A Dazzling Light Show
The Fusion Pro Wireless Controller's most distinctive feature is its RGB Ghost Lighting, which gives it a striking edge and creates an otherworldly experience. When switched off, the controller boasts a sleek, covert appearance, but once you flip the light switch on, prepare for a kaleidoscope of colors that are both visually enchanting and unsettling.
The Fusion Pro Wireless Controller features four customizable lighting zones that stretch across the controller from left to right. Zone 1 resides on the left handle, Zone 2 starts from the top left corner and reaches the middle, Zone 3 moves from the middle to the top right corner, and Zone 4 rests on the right handle. Much like its remappable back buttons, the RGB lighting and effects can be customized directly on the controller.
Having tested PowerA's previous Lumectra-equipped controllers, I was already familiar with their RGB lighting capabilities, which are breathtaking. However, the Fusion Pro Wireless Controller's RGB Ghost Lighting truly takes the cake. The lighting patterns are infused with an abstract, trippy quality that adds to the controller's overall mystique.
I occasionally caught glimpses of what resembled an animal's face in the center, but when I looked away, I saw something entirely different in the pattern. If you're interested in fiddling around with back button settings or adjusting RGB lighting directly on the controller, the PowerA Gamer HQ app is available for Xbox and PC and can simplify the process. The app allows you to customize various settings, such as lighting modes, vibration, and audio, and calibrate the controller.
In conclusion, the PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless Controller sets itself apart with its one-of-a-kind RGB Ghost Lighting system and its captivating hidden design. Complemented by a pro-level feature set, this controller is a dream for any hardcore gamer. If you play primarily on PC, opt for the PowerA OPS v3 Pro, which boasts simpler RGB lighting while still offering superior customization options.
This controller, the PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless Controller, not only offers pro-level features such as remappable back buttons and hall effect thumbsticks, but it also takes technology to a new level with its RGB Ghost Lighting. The controller's distinctive RGB lighting can be personalized directly on the device, providing a captivating visual experience.
