The short version
- Nacon has launched the Revolution 5 Unlimited, the first officially licensed PlayStation 5 controller to include an integrated display screen.
- The device allows users to mix audio from mobile devices and consoles simultaneously while connected via wired headphones.
- Priced at nearly $230, the controller offers extensive physical customization options including swappable sticks, adjustable weights, and configurable triggers.
Nacon has unveiled a new peripheral for the PlayStation 5 that introduces a display screen directly onto the gamepad. The Revolution 5 Unlimited represents the first officially licensed controller for Sony’s console to feature such a component. This addition allows players to modify settings like joystick sensitivity or remap buttons without navigating through system menus. The device is positioned as a premium option for users seeking granular control over their gaming experience.
A primary function of the integrated screen involves audio management. Users can connect headphones directly to the controller via cable and use the display to blend sound from multiple sources. This capability enables gamers to listen to music from a smartphone while simultaneously hearing audio from the console. The feature addresses a common desire among players who wish to maintain awareness of external media during gameplay sessions.
The controller is available for pre-order through Nacon’s online store at a price point of $229.99. Shipping is expected to occur later in the current year. While the device is designed primarily for the PS5, it also supports compatibility with personal computers and Android devices. This cross-platform functionality suggests an intent to capture a broader market beyond Sony’s exclusive ecosystem.
Physical design choices on the Revolution 5 Unlimited diverge from traditional PlayStation layouts. The thumbsticks are arranged asymmetrically, mirroring the configuration found on Xbox and Nintendo Switch controllers. Nacon claims these sticks utilize tunneling magnetoresistance technology to resist drift, a common issue in analog inputs over time. Both sticks can be fitted with alternate heads featuring different designs, allowing for further personalization.
Customization extends to the directional pad as well. Players can swap between a classic four-way design and an eight-way option. The latter is marketed toward fighting game enthusiasts who require precise diagonal inputs for complex combo moves. This modularity reflects a trend in high-end peripherals where hardware components are treated as interchangeable parts rather than fixed elements.
Weight distribution is another adjustable feature of the device. Nacon includes 10, 14, and 16 gram weights that can be inserted into the controller’s non-slip grips. This allows users to tailor the balance and feel of the gamepad to their preference. The ability to alter mass may appeal to competitive players who seek specific tactile feedback during intense sessions.
Additional input options are located on the top and back of the controller. Two shoulder buttons, two customizable shortcut buttons, and triggers with adjustable travel distance are present on the upper face. Shortening the trigger travel can reduce reaction times in first-person shooter games. Four more customizable shortcut buttons are situated on the rear, along with a dedicated button for switching between saved profiles.
Beyond the physical hardware, software integration plays a key role in the controller’s functionality. A mobile application for iOS and Android expands customization capabilities beyond what is possible on the built-in screen. Users can adjust thumbstick response curves, tweak equalizer profiles for audio sources, and modify RGB lighting colors surrounding the right stick. The package also includes a wireless charging dock.
The introduction of this device signals a potential shift in how peripherals are designed for modern gaming consoles. By integrating a display and extensive customization options, Nacon is targeting users who view controllers as highly personalized tools rather than standard input devices. The high price point suggests a niche market focused on enthusiasts willing to pay for advanced features.
As the product prepares for shipment later this year, industry observers will likely monitor its reception among competitive gamers and casual users alike. The success of such a specialized device may influence future designs from other manufacturers. Whether the integrated screen becomes a standard feature or remains a premium novelty depends on user adoption and perceived value.
Sources behind this briefing
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- The Verge↗Nacon’s new PS5 controller can mix audio from your phone and console
