2023 Christmas Gadget Buying Guide

PDP

I’m a big fan of gaming controllers, I have… well, let’s just say it’s more than 10 next to my desk for various gaming scenarios. However, it looks like that number is about to go up! I have seen a lot of cool controllers from PDP over the years, but few can match these REALMz controllers for uniqueness.

Features

• A collectable figurine captured inside the grip and a multi-layered design featuring iconic game scenes
• 3.5mm jack for in-game audio and chat, plus built-in volume controls on the D-pad
• Expertly designed for all-day comfort and long-lasting performance
• Brighten your gameplay with LED lighting effects that you can change using the ABXY buttons
• Officially licensed by Nintendo and SEGA

Because they’re officially licenced by both SEGA and Nintendo, these wired Nintendo Switch controllers they feature these amazing Sonic level designs on the interior, as well as a collectable figure set into the side of the controller!

I got the Sonic and Tales versions, which even come with colour-matching rear buttons and cables. Honestly, for a bit of multiplayer gaming, these are just the perfect controllers, especially given they’re so reasonably priced and so unique to look at.

For Sonic fans and Nintendo Switch owners, these are just as cool as controllers can be!

£24.99 on Amazon.

If you’re looking for a more premium experience, it’s hard to beat the Pro BFG Victrix, a premium controller designed to compete with the best of the best, and well-suited to both enthusiast gamers and eSports players alike. IT’ll work on PlayStation or PC, and it’s packed with features that few can match.

Features

• Full Wireless and Wired Compatibility: With the Mode switch players can easily swap between PlayStation 5; PlayStation 4 and PC (using X input) devices
• Modularity: The reversible left module allows for both the standard PlayStation stick configuration as well as offset sticks; fans of fighting games can swap in the Fight Pad module replacing the right stick with a six-button layout with microswitches; The D-Pad, Analog Stick Caps and Analog Stick Gates are also interchangeable
• Four Mappable Back Buttons with User-Configurable Profiles: Players can map the back buttons on the fly with the Profile Button and save up to 3 unique profiles for button mappings
• Patented Multi-Position Clutch Triggers: Boasting 5 different stopping points, the patented clutch triggers allow players to tune the trigger pulls to their specific liking, whether they want hair triggers, standard triggers, or something in the middle
• Victrix Control Hub Customization App: Players can make their controller as unique as their playstyle with the free Victrix Control Hub; The Control Hub allows players to configure button and EQ settings to fit their play style, run diagnostics and update the controller’s firmware all in one place.

It comes packaged in a gorgeous hard-case so you can keep it well protected at home or while you travel. With a huge amount of accessories bundled in the case so you can customise it to meet the needs of whatever you’re playing.

In the box, you get long and short analogue sticks with swappable tops, two additional D-pads, and a swappable fighting controller front that removed the right analogue stick and gives you a six button input for a more arcade feel.

There’s a premium quality Type-C cable included, but the controller is wireless too and comes with a dongle for use on PC.

It has all the features you would expect from a high-end PlayStation controller, including the touch pad interface and share buttons. However, on the back, you get a profile switch, four programmable rear paddles, and trigger clutches that allow you to lock them to short throw, making FPS shooting response times much quicker.

However, as a big fan of fighting games and arcade classics, the Fightpad is the real star for me. It gives your four larger and more spaced out buttons with some gorgeous mechanical switches for a great arcade experience.

Available on Amazon.