Backbone Pro Controller: Is Mobile Gaming Finally Worth It?
The Backbone Pro controller is making waves in the mobile gaming community, aiming to elevate the iOS and Android gaming experience. Announced this week by Backbone, the Pro model seeks to improve upon its predecessor, the Backbone One, with features geared towards serious gamers.
Key upgrades include full-size joysticks, re-mappable buttons, and Bluetooth compatibility, allowing for a more premium and versatile setup. Unlike the Backbone One, the Pro doesn’t need to be physically attached to a phone to function, opening up possibilities for wireless play. This is particularly useful for cloud gaming services like Xbox Game Pass, where users can seamlessly switch between playing on their TV and their mobile device.
“Our thought is, gaming should be a lot more straightforward,” Backbone founder Maneet Khaira told TechCrunch. ”It needs to be really simple and work more like AirPods when you connect to screens.”
Backbone is making a significant bet on the continued growth of mobile gaming. The company is backed by celebrity investors such as Ashton Kutcher, The Weeknd, MrBeast, Post Malone, and Amy Schumer, alongside gaming industry figures like Discord founder Jason Citron, indicating strong confidence in their vision.
One reviewer tested the Backbone Pro by playing iOS versions of games they usually play on the Nintendo Switch, focusing on comparing the gameplay experience. After approximately 13 hours of playing Stardew Valley on iOS, the reviewer noted that while they aren’t fully converted to mobile gaming due to interruptions like text messages, they preferred playing with the Backbone Pro on the couch compared to the Nintendo Switch, citing comfort as a key factor.
The ergonomics of the Backbone Pro were particularly praised. The reviewer found the controller immediately intuitive and comfortable, allowing them to play fast-paced games like Hades just as easily as on the Switch. This is notable, as the reviewer finds the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller uncomfortable for similar games.
Khaira explained that the company 3D-printed over 9,000 different parts while developing the Backbone Pro to ensure the best possible design. This dedication to precision resulted in a controller that makes Joy-Cons feel less impressive.
However, this level of quality comes at a price. The Backbone Pro retails for $169.99, which might be a barrier for some, especially considering that a refurbished Nintendo Switch Lite can be purchased for around the same amount. For those deeply invested in cross-device gaming and Xbox Game Pass, the Backbone Pro may be a worthwhile investment.
For users who don’t need cross-device functionality, the original Backbone One, priced at $99.99, remains a viable option.
