Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller Review: "Has Some Rough Edges To Smooth Over"
There's a lot to be said about pro controllers in the gaming space. A lot of people feel they're redundant with most players opting for keyboard and mouse - but those on console are left out in the cold as a result. Some companies (including the console manufacturers themselves) attempt to bridge that gap, making the most of the limited form factor of the traditional video game controller to aid the user in reaching their full potential when playing competitively.
This is exactly what Nacon intends to do with their Revolution X Pro controller, a wired Xbox (and PC) controller that gives the player ultimate customisation and the chance to be the next best controller pro. For the most part, it delivers, but there are a few caveats.
Moving With A Click
Holding a pro controller in your hands for the first time is bizarre. The same is true of the Revolution X - it's uncomfortable to begin with if you're not ready for the buttons and paddles on the back. Despite its unfamiliarity, it's equally easy to get used to after a while. The extra buttons are simple to map and set up, and though it might take some time training your muscle memory to use them, they're an incredible asset.
The focus of these buttons isn't to give you unfair access to new in-game functions, but to technically replace the four face buttons on the controller so that your thumb never has to leave the right thumb-stick. It's a great innovation, and though it isn't an invention of Nacon, it's one that they've adopted successfully.
Sometimes however, the buttons can be a little tough to get responses from. Though every press comes with a satisfying click, it's hard not to feel as though their placements are set so far into the back of the controller that it can be difficult to actually press them. While SCUF controllers have convenient paddles that stick out, the Revolution X comes with buttons that are more flush, that prevent more accidental presses, but as a result, they become… harder to press.
Player Customisation
Click to enlargeThe customisation of the controller is probably its largest draw, allowing players to change the mass on either side with removable metal weights. It is, on paper, a great addition to the controller that not many others can offer. And, to Nacon's credit, it's very nice to choose exactly how the controller feels in your hands - but it's got more problems in the way it feels.
The plastic that makes up the bulk of the controller (including the panels that give way to the weights) feels relatively thin, making the bulk of the Revolution X feel quite cheap in build. Perhaps it's just my personal wariness of being delicate using gaming peripherals, but it's slightly discouraging to squeeze the controller in order to reach some of the buttons when you feel like every time you tighten your hands, the plastic could shatter or the panels for the adjustable weights could ping off at any second.
The Nacon Revolution X controller also comes with the promise of Dolby Audio to enhance anything coming out of the controller via headset connection, and even with the enhancements, the difference isn't all that noticeable.
Verdict
Click to enlargeThe Nacon Revolution X controller is a solid effort. It's clear that Nacon cares about bringing out the best in its players without skimping on some of the features that many pro controllers offer, but overall, the controller has some rough edges to smooth over. The build quality of the controller will make you worry that you're doing something wrong, and though the panels on the back can offer a tactical advantage, the overall feel gives the impression it's ready to crumble.
The controller offers some great customization, but it simply falls flat otherwise. Nacon is onto something great here though, and perhaps their next hardware outing could define the next generation of competitive console play. They've certainly got it in them - but we'll have to wait for it.
6/10
Product received free of charge.
