As a seasoned gamer with a soft spot for versatile controllers, I’ve had the pleasure of testing out GameSir’s G8 Plus. Now, let me tell you, this controller is not a home run, but it certainly isn’t a strikeout either.
GameSir has made a significant impact and appears to be an unstoppable force in the gaming controller market, thanks to their dependable gamepads which feature advanced Hall effect joysticks and triggers. Their newest mobile controller is the G8 Plus Galileo wireless gamepad, and it promises to continue delivering top-notch performance, as we’ve come to expect from this unexpectedly outstanding gaming brand.
The GameSir G8 Plus, although similar in terms of offering other mobile controllers like the X2s, stands out with its unique design, hinting at a potential shift towards home-based mobile gaming. This versatile controller works seamlessly with PC, Nintendo Switch, and both iOS and Android devices, raising questions about whether it could revolutionize the mobile gaming sphere.
Box Contents
The G8+ comes in standard packaging, but offers extra joysticks that are far from expected.
- G8+ Gamepad
- 3 Alternative Joysticks
- USB-C Charging Cord
Design
The G8 Plus by GameSir breaks away from their traditional design of rectangular mobile game controllers, instead adopting a more modern and ergonomic approach. Unlike previous models, the G8 Plus sports broader, curved handles that resemble contemporary gaming systems rather than retro ones. True to form, this controller is crafted with larger-handed gamers in mind, providing a comfortable grip for those players who are frequently overlooked.
The G8+ boasts an ergonomic design complemented by a distinctive textured surface that keeps your hands comfortable and maintains a secure grip. This texturing extends around the back of each handle, stopping just before the control buttons, ensuring you can easily identify where your finger is positioned. Remarkably, this texture is also present on the controller’s triggers and bumpers, enhancing the overall premium quality of the device.
The versatile control unit works well with numerous devices, ranging from the Nintendo Switch to the Google Pixel. To guard against scratches and bumps, a sturdy rubber coating has been incorporated into its design, particularly beneficial for bigger cameras like those found on the iPhone 15 or the Pixel 8. Although it may not be essential or flawless, especially for users who prefer a left-handed orientation (with volume controls on top) or already use cases (which inherently provide protection), many gamers will appreciate this added benefit as a thoughtful addition.
As a gamer who often struggles with hand strain and cramped fingers after long gaming sessions, I find myself always seeking out controllers that are comfortable and easy to use. The controller in question, with its rubber siding and smooth sliding action, wraps around my screen like a glove, providing a snug fit that feels secure and effortless. However, there are a few areas where it could be improved for an even better gaming experience.
Customizability
GameSir is known for its simple personalization options, allowing users to switch seamlessly from Xbox-like to Switch-style buttons without any hassle. The G8 Plus takes customization to another level. For example, the magnetic faceplates on GameSir controllers have been a key feature since their inception, enabling players to swap out covers for unique designs or different colors. However, with the G8 Plus, these faceplates offer more than just aesthetic changes; they now allow users to physically modify their controller’s configuration.
The GameSir G8 Plus features swappable, magnetically attached ABXY buttons and three alternative joysticks. These ABXY buttons are quite sleek and can be effortlessly removed when needed, thanks to their magnetic base ensuring they always snap back into place correctly. This is a significant advantage because the G8 Plus continues to provide GameSir’s innovative interchangeable key function, which quickly swaps A with B and X with Y for players more accustomed to the Xbox-style button arrangement on Nintendo Switch.
By revealing the grips, GameSir can offer players alternative full joysticks instead of simply swapping out tops, which significantly impacts the deadzone of each joystick. This is significant because it offers players more unique options. For instance, retro gamers will be thrilled by the compact joystick that mimics the GameCube’s C stick. Similarly, another joystick alternative features the distinctive spiral texture design reminiscent of the GameCube controller. Although they are both black instead of gray and orange, these modern alternatives with retro characteristics may be hard to find elsewhere.
Beyond adjusting the physical aspects, gamers can modify a majority of the game’s digital features as well. The GameSir app offers useful remapping capabilities, but many players won’t feel the need to download it because they can already swap the AB and XY buttons, as well as reassign other inputs to the rear buttons directly from the controller itself. Most users will find these built-in functions more than sufficient for their needs.
The way to identify if remapped buttons on this controller have taken your new input is not clear. It’s hard to distinguish between when the back buttons are just blinking (waiting for input) and when they’ve finished processing it. Earlier GameSir controllers didn’t use flashing for anything other than connecting to a device or confirming an action, but the G8 Plus seems to flash frequently, even during most functions.
No matter what you consider, the G8 Plus stands out for its exceptional physical customization options, which are hard to beat, and its internal customizations are among the most user-friendly when compared to contemporary smartphone controllers.
Performance
Top-notch durability and cutting-edge Hall effect sensors make the controller a winning choice in the industry, however, the sole light indicator, being just the main power button, can be somewhat inconvenient when connecting to devices. This is because the light persistently blinks, even after connection, which can be frustrating. Additionally, whenever you press any button that doesn’t serve a purpose within the game you’re playing, such as X while using Ultra Hand in ‘The Legend of Zelda’, the G8 Plus flashes, reminding you it’s not an Xbox controller.
Although it can be amusing when a controller seems to make fun of you, it’s less enjoyable when you’re attempting to link your controller to your gaming device and are unsure if the connection issues stem from the controller struggling or if the test button presses on the home screen aren’t effective. This issue highlights one significant flaw with G8 Plus: it tends to have noticeable delays, or lag.
During controller setup, there’s sometimes a noticeable delay as the device recognizes that a new controller has been connected. This slight delay can be frustrating, especially when it comes to the back buttons, which may seem less responsive than expected and require more force to press compared to other GameSir controllers. Although there is audible and tactile feedback during button activation, it often happens prematurely before the actuator has fully responded.
Back buttons can be a bit of a novelty, so this isn’t the end of the world for the G8 Plus, particularly for gamers with large hands. However, this connectivity or responsiveness issue seems to affect another function as well: motion controls. When used with the Switch, the G8+’s motion controls didn’t work well, refusing to move more than about 75% of the way across the screen’s right side. However, again, this will likely only affect a very small number of gamers and is far from a death knell for the controller.
1. Most of the buttons functioned smoothly with minimal problems. The triggers require a longer pull, but can be adjusted to respond instantly for faster gameplay. Additionally, the battery performance exceeds that of the standard Nintendo Switch and many gaming smartphones.
Overall Impression
GameSir’s G8 Plus may not be the game-changing controller that fans have grown accustomed to from the company in recent years, but it still offers a worthwhile gaming experience. Although the swappable ABXY buttons and rubberized back might seem like gimmicks to some, they are executed well and will appeal to players who value such features.
For competitive gamers and enthusiasts of complex RPGs, the occasional connectivity glitches and high latency when using the back buttons can be major disadvantages. However, most other users might not encounter any issues once they’ve paired their device with the G8 Plus controller. This controller, especially cherished by retro gamers and those with larger hands, offers features that are hard to find in other mobile gamepads.
Similar Products
If you’re not head-over-heels with the latest mobile controller from GameSir, here are some alternatives that might suit your preferences and setup better, coming from a fellow enthusiast like myself.
| Key Feature | Product | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Better Responsiveness | BackBone One | $100 |
| More Compact | Razer Kishi | $48 |
| Better Motion Control | Nintendo Joy-Cons | $80 |
FAQ
Q: How do you change modes on the GameSir G8 Plus controller?
To switch modes depending on the device you’re using, press and hold the M button along with one of the ABXY keys. For detailed instructions based on your particular controller, refer to your user manual.
Q: Does GameSir work with Android?
Yes, wireless GameSir controllers work with Android.
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2024-08-15 01:05