By Stevie Smith Feb 5, 2008, 11:06 GMT
When it comes to first-person shooters, PC purists will insist there’s simply no replacing the keyboard and mouse control combination, while console gamers might attempt to sidestep criticisms citing a lack of true accuracy with calls of enhanced difficulty.
FPS gamers to receive enhanced control with the FPS Freek. Credit: Kontrol Freeks.
Whether PC gamers have it too easy, or console gamers have it too hard, all gamers would agree that enhanced precision is key when embarking on an action-intensive FPS adventure… which is where the Kontrol Freeks come in.
Specifically, if you prefer your FPS action via a gamepad (regardless of the host platform), then the FPS Freek might be just what the trigger-happy doctor ordered.
Currently moving through its prototype testing phase, the FPS Freek is essentially an analogue stick extender that clips onto a gamepad stick, relaxing physical stress on the thumbs during gameplay and providing the gamer with improved aiming ability. How so, you ask?
“If you make a joystick longer, it adds leverage to that joystick, thus making it easier to move. Also, by adding length to the joystick, you add more travel distance to the outer tip of this joystick,” explain the creative boffins at Kontrol Freek, who have previously created the Speed Freek attachment to assist race fans.
“If you add some travel to the analog, you slow down the aiming slightly in the game, thus allowing you to aim more precisely and more accurately,” they continue, “More leverage = less force to move. More length = more precise character movement and more precise aiming. Why would any gamer not want a set of these?”
That’s a good question.
Seasoned FPS fans eager to give the FPS Freek a vigorous tour of duty through their favourite shooter can take advantage of a 20 percent discount if they choose to place a pre-order now ahead of the accessory’s official release.
Current pricing is $9.99 USD for a pack of two.
Note: The FPS Freek analogue stick extenders are presently only available for the Xbox 360 gamepad - although that does leave them open to those PC purists we mentioned.
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