As a gaming enthusiast who has spent countless hours navigating through various virtual worlds, I must say that the Tarantula Pro wireless controller from GameSir is a game-changer! This budget-friendly controller offers an incredible blend of customizability and affordability that’s hard to resist.
Recently, GameSir has been consistently producing new versions of their popular G7 controller. Previously, we’ve come across Hall effect joysticks in both sleek wireless controllers and rapid-response wired ones. However, the latest Tarantula Pro from GameSir is causing quite a stir by introducing some significant changes.
Steering clear from the typical Xbox controller design, the Tarantula Pro caters to PlayStation enthusiasts who desire cross-platform gaming on Switch, mobile devices, and PC. This controller boasts an impressive level of customization, which sets it apart significantly from most PlayStation controllers.
GameRant was given an opportunity to examine the Tarantula Pro controller charging station edition, priced $10 higher than the regular one. We wanted to find out how it performs under real-life gaming scenarios in games such as ‘Tears of the Kingdom’, ‘Katamari Damacy REROLL’, ‘Mario Kart’, and others. Despite being designed for a particular segment of gamers, there’s much to appreciate about the Tarantula Pro.
Box Contents
- Tarantula Pro Controller
- 1m/3.28ft USB-C Charging Cord
- USB Dongle
- Charging Dock
- Manual
- GameSir Sticker
With the addition of a charging station, GameSir includes a custom-fitted stand where the controller easily aligns. This allows the back to securely lock into position against the charging cradle. Though it may be somewhat delicate, this feature adds value for a modest price increase and provides the convenience of having a readily available controller charger.
Comfort & Design
In line with GameSir’s current reputation, the Tarantula Pro wireless controller’s outer casing appears rather delicate, and upon handling, you can sense the vibrations emanating from the rumble packs and other components. However, this lightweight shell offers a commensurate level of comfort in grip. The overall balance of the controller is impressive, with the majority of its weight concentrated in the center, while the handles are surprisingly light. The texture on the controller is confined to the rear, encompassing both triggers and bumpers as well. While not deeply indented like many other controllers, this texture aids in maintaining a firm hold, although it doesn’t significantly reduce sweaty hands.
The design of the button arrangement is quite conventional, with the back buttons strategically placed at the handle backs. Additional buttons provide an exceptional feature, comparable to just a handful of premium controllers like SCUF’s Envision. The central top area boasts three inputs independently, and it also functions as an NFC touchpoint. Beneath this section, there are four macro buttons that are easy to reach, but they are quite near the smaller-than-average menu buttons. This proximity might lead to accidental keypresses when you’re momentarily stepping away from a game.
One of the biggest draws for the Tarantula Pro wireless controller is its symmetrical design, which is usually reserved for Playstation controllers only. Players who prefer symmetrical joystick layouts are being left behind in the great controller arms race, as the Xbox-style asymmetrical layout is much more popular. The Tarantula Pro seeks to remedy this by offering a capable, competitive wireless controller designed for Playstation fans who are gaming on other platforms. While it is missing the big touchpad of the DualSense, this controller has a very similar shape and layout to the PS4 DualShock controller. Plus, the face of the controller has a cool, black and gray camo finish.
Connectivity
With Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless connections, there’s not much room for error, and GameSir consistently delivers reliable responsiveness with the Tarantula Pro. While it may not be the quickest controller on the planet, in most non-competitive situations, you likely won’t perceive a performance gap between yourself and other players.
Initially, linking the device via Bluetooth was quite frustrating. At first, it refused to pair with the Switch, and eventually, a cord had to be used to make the console acknowledge it. After that initial hiccup, it connected effortlessly every time. Regardless, the process remained somewhat bothersome.
After connecting to my phone just once, the Tarantula Pro would persistently attempt to connect, even when I used Switch-specific commands. However, since it was in Switch mode, it wasn’t compatible with my phone. Still, notifications kept appearing on my screen, instructing me to adjust settings for tasks such as setting up my keyboard with the controller, which added unnecessary clutter.
Ultimately, though the link functioned well, the encounter might have been more seamless if there was just a single Bluetooth setting available. This is particularly relevant because the wireless adapter performs flawlessly on its own.
Performance & Customizability
The Tarantula Pro’s abundance of additional buttons clearly emphasizes its focus on customization. However, this controller doesn’t skimp on functionality or style. For example, a small window beneath the ABXY buttons showcases an interesting, albeit somewhat frivolous, feature: mechanical button swapping. Instead of just reassigning the ABXY buttons to cater for both Switch and PC gaming, the Tarantula Pro actually physically moves the buttons according to your preference when changing layouts. Upon powering on, you can hear the whirring of gears as everything prepares for gameplay. While this feature may not offer a tangible advantage over remapping and could potentially be a potential flaw, the mechanical button swapping function is surprisingly captivating.
The 1200mAh battery, although not exceptional, offers ample gaming time, including when RGB illumination is activated. Although GameSir doesn’t disclose exact battery life details, the Tarantula controller managed to sustain 20 hours of gameplay via Bluetooth with continuous lighting. This performance is on par with similar controllers, although battery life can fluctuate based on additional factors.
As a gamer, I’ve got the freedom to personalize not just my RGB settings, but also the arrangement of buttons and even create macros using my GameSir controller. The GameSir Nexus mobile app is handy for digital customization, but most tweaks can be done directly on the controller itself. Both the app and the built-in controls are useful tools, but each has its own unique advantages and limitations when it comes to customizing my gaming experience.
RGB Lighting
As a devoted fan, I must say, tweaking the lighting on my Tarantula Pro was a breeze via the app compared to using the controller! When I first gave it a spin, I couldn’t find an option to alter the lighting effect among the six available: Monochrome, Breathing, Fantasy, Rainbow, Radar, and Off. However, adjusting the brightness, hue, and speed of the lights was a snap using the controller. The app, though, made the process effortless as everything is neatly presented and clearly marked for easy access.
After adjusting the RGB settings, it appeared stunning. The illumination is vivid and striking, with colors that are true-to-life and don’t blur into each other excessively when in a multi-color setting. Fans of RGB control will find much to admire in the Tarantula Pro, despite the fact that it only features RGB along the center of its face.
Button Remapping
Initially, the process of reassigning buttons on the Tarantula Pro was somewhat confusing. The instructions provided were not straightforward about how to remap or program buttons, often pointing out an incorrect button and using language that suggested there was a separate macro button that needed to be pressed simultaneously with “the desired button to map.” However, there is no separate macro button, and the manual actually means that only the M Button and the intended remapped button make up the remap command. While the four C buttons can be thought of as “macro” buttons, you can actually set a macro for any of the additional buttons, not just those on the face.
As a fan, I can’t help but express my enthusiasm for the remapping and macro settings! It’s simply incredible to have the ability to customize macros on an economical controller. The accuracy with which these macros capture your button presses is truly remarkable. This feature allows for a slight delay between button presses, perfect for hotkey functions like quick saving, dodging tricky enemies in Elden Ring, or swiftly switching abilities in Tears of the Kingdom.
It takes a little getting used to the additional buttons, especially the four ‘C’ ones, but once you arrange your keys as per your preference, you’ll find it incredibly convenient and quickly get accustomed to it. The drawback is that the pause button being near the four main macros might cause accidental pausing.
Instead of creating macros directly within the app, it’s quite inconvenient that you have to record them using the controller instead. The issue lies in the fact that the app only allows for a single input assignment per button, even those specifically designated for macros. Additionally, another missing aspect is the inability to test the extra buttons to ensure they are functioning properly, which seems like an odd oversight from the app’s design perspective.
Verdict
The GameSir Tarantula Pro wireless game controller boasts an exceptionally distinct design. It combines the aesthetic of a PlayStation controller with contemporary technology, but what truly sets it apart is its remarkable level of customizability. One of the rare controllers capable of saving full macros, this feature is thoughtfully implemented and valuable to console RPG enthusiasts. Furthermore, the ability to physically switch the ABXY buttons adds an interesting touch, while the adjustable RGB lighting is a smart and visually appealing feature.
Based on GameSir’s reputation for strong connectivity and robustness, as well as the controller’s lightweight design, PlayStation enthusiasts might discover a highly compatible option for PC and Switch gaming. What’s more, the controller is quite affordable at only $70 when you purchase it along with its sleek charging dock.
Similar Products
If the Tarantula Pro isn’t your ideal choice, take a look at these alternative controllers that possess similar traits while boasting distinctive, standout designs of their own.
| Feature | Controller | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Better RGB | GameSir Kaelid | $50 |
| Better for Mobile | BACKBONE One | $100 |
| Better Customizability | BIGBIG WON Rainbow 2 | $52 |
FAQ
Q: How long is the GameSir Tarantula Pro controller’s battery life?
The battery life will vary widely based on RGB usage and connection method. During our testing, the RGB was turned to max brightness while the controller was connected via bluetooth, and the battery lasted about 20 hours before needing to be charged.
Q: Do all GameSir controllers come with Hall effect joysticks?Â
Yes, the current lineup of GameSir controllers all have Hall effect joysticks.
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2024-10-08 17:04