Razer Kishi V2 Pro Controller with HyperSense Vibration
Razer Kishi V2 Pro Controller with HyperSense Vibration
The Razer Kishi V2 Pro: Taking Mobile Gaming to the Next Level
The gaming industry has witnessed a surge in mobile gaming, and companies are constantly pushing the boundaries to provide gamers with the best possible experience on their smartphones. Razer, known for its top-notch gaming peripherals, has made a significant contribution to this realm with its Razer Kishi V2 Pro controller. Let’s take a closer look at this Android-only controller and see what sets it apart.
Bringing the Pro to Mobile Gaming
When Razer launched the Razer Edge earlier this year, it came bundled with the high-end version of the Razer Kishi V2 controller. This controller, resembling its well-known competitor, the Backbone One, allowed gamers to experience console-level controls on their smartphones. Now, Razer has made the $130 Razer Kishi V2 Pro controller available for individual purchase, offering two variants: the standard version and the specially licensed Xbox Edition.
The Xbox Edition comes with an additional Xbox button placed conveniently under the right joystick, perfect for Xbox enthusiasts who want a seamless gaming experience. This variant costs an extra $20 and is available only in North America.
Unleashing the Pro Features
The Razer Kishi V2 Pro models come with two noteworthy features that justify the extra bucks. Firstly, they include a 3.5mm audio jack, enabling users to connect their favorite gaming headsets while charging their devices simultaneously. This addition alleviates the inconvenience of having to choose between audio and battery life during intense gaming sessions.
Secondly, the Pro models introduce rumble support, also known as “haptics.” Haptic feedback provides a more immersive gaming experience by adding physical sensations that correspond to in-game actions. However, it’s worth noting that Razer’s implementation of haptics in the Kishi V2 Pro is audio-based. While some users appreciate this approach, I personally find it less appealing. The haptic feedback relies heavily on sound frequencies, resulting in peculiar vibrations that may feel out of place. Additionally, the lack of bass in certain smartphone models further exacerbates this issue, causing even background music to vibrate without delivering the desired rumble effect.
Design and Functionality
In terms of design, the Razer Kishi V2 Pro retains the same sleek and ergonomic design as its predecessors. It offers additional rubber tabs that can be inserted at either end for a more secure fit or to slightly raise the phone’s camera bump, preventing it from pressing uncomfortably against the back support. However, some users may find that this feature makes it more challenging to install the phone securely, preferring a more straightforward snapping mechanism.
User Experience and App Integration
Razer has updated its Nexus app alongside the release of the Kishi V2 Pro controller. However, some users, including myself, are not entirely satisfied with the app’s functionality. One annoyance is that the app fails to recognize when users are already signed in to Xbox Game Pass via its respective app. Instead, it prompts users to enable haptics by launching Chrome and adjusting a browser setting that simply does not exist. This unnecessary detour can disrupt the gaming experience, causing frustration.
Furthermore, if a game or the app unexpectedly closes, such as when redirecting to Chrome without a cancel option, the controller loses its connection. Unfortunately, there is no way to initiate a software-based connection refresh, requiring users to physically disconnect and reconnect the controller. This issue extends beyond unexpected closures and can result in intermittent connection issues.
The Final Verdict
Despite the aforementioned frustrations, the Razer Kishi V2 line, including the Pro models, remains a solid choice for mobile gamers seeking precise controls and easy installation. The addition of the dedicated audio jack in the Pro models is a commendable improvement, especially for those who enjoy gaming with audio immersion. However, Razer still has room for improvement in terms of app integration and better addressing connectivity issues.
With the fast-paced nature of technological advancements, one can hope that future versions, such as the rumored Kishi V3, will address these concerns and further elevate the mobile gaming experience. Until then, the Razer Kishi V2 Pro stands as a versatile and reliable option for gamers on the go.
So, if you are craving console-level gaming experiences on your smartphone, the Razer Kishi V2 Pro controller is worth considering. Embrace its ergonomic design, enjoy the audio jack convenience, and immerse yourself in the world of mobile gaming like never before.
